1

Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Microbiology Lab Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$14

$21

$34

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Raleigh, NC is $21.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of microbiological techniques, laboratory safety protocols, and at least an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and data management systems such as LIMS is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurate sample processing and teamwork. These competencies are vital for ensuring precise test results, maintaining lab safety, and supporting research or diagnostic objectives.

What does a Microbiology Lab Assistant do?

A Microbiology Lab Assistant supports microbiologists by preparing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and conducting basic laboratory tests. They help ensure experiments run smoothly by following strict protocols and keeping the lab organized and sterile. Their daily tasks may also include labeling specimens, recording data, and disposing of biohazardous materials properly. This role is essential for maintaining safety and accuracy in microbiological research and testing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Microbiology Lab Assistants and how can they be addressed?

Microbiology Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterile techniques to avoid contamination, accurately following protocols for sample preparation, and managing multiple tasks during busy periods. To address these, it’s important to develop strong organizational skills, pay close attention to detail, and communicate effectively with team members. Regularly reviewing standard operating procedures and participating in team meetings can also help ensure quality and efficiency in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Microbiology Lab Assistant vs Microbiology Technician?

AspectMicrobiology Lab AssistantMicrobiology Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or relevant certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, research facilitiesLaboratories, research centers, healthcare settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and basic tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, recording data
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, research, and educational labsCommonly employed in clinical and industrial microbiology labs

While both roles support microbiology labs, Microbiology Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support functions, whereas Microbiology Technicians perform more detailed testing and analysis. The roles often overlap in work environment and industry but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What Does a Microbiology Lab Assistant Do?

A microbiology lab assistant provides support for scientists and researchers in a microbiology lab where they study microbes, viruses, fungi, parasites, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms. In this career, you may work on sample collection, aid in the testing of cultures and samples, maintain a specimen record, and sterilize and clean equipment after testing. Some labs may also expect you to carry out other administrative duties. Your responsibilities as a microbiology lab assistant may also include recording data and maintaining records.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Microbiology Lab jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 21% Full Time, 64% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,288 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Medical Lab Specialist - Microbiology Laboratory

Medical Lab Specialist - Microbiology Laboratory

UNC Health

Moncure, NC • On-site

$31.04 - $44.62/hr

Full-time, Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

Your passion belongs at UNC Health. Join more than 56,000 teammates working together to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve across North Carolina.

***This position is eligible for the Clinical Laboratory Incentive Program.***

Summary:

The Microbiology Laboratory is currently recruiting a Medical Laboratory Specialist for the Central Processing, Bacteriology, and Special Microbiology areas of the laboratory. This position supports the technical, regulatory and safety needs of all three areas. The Specialist works in collaboration with the laboratory supervisor and laboratory directors to address analytical problems and maintain scientific oversight of routine patient testing.

Schedule:

Monday- Friday, 8:30am- 5:00pm, with rotating weekends and holidays It is expected that the medical laboratory specialist is flexible in providing support to other shifts within their assigned responsibilities.

Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

  • Follow all written laboratory policies and procedures. Medical laboratory specialists must adhere to the laboratory and hospital policies and procedures for both patient and employee safety.
  • Work collaboratively in teams as well as independently to complete the daily workload in an efficient manner ensuring that all turnaround times are met.
  • Maintain appropriate documentation as required by procedures and processes being performed.
  • Monitor and review quality management program components, assuring that appropriate investigation and follow-up are documented and enhancements implemented.
  • Update quality control ranges as appropriate. Assist with lot changes and adjustment of ranges or parameters.
  • Participate in new equipment and test evaluations, data collection, and data analysis.
  • Implement new procedures and equipment following guidelines for new test implementation.
  • Participate in developing standard operating procedures for patient testing.
  • Assist with generation of reports as required to monitor turnaround times and other metrics.
  • Review regulatory checklists and assure that all new questions are addressed.
  • Maintain proficiency with all regulatory requirements and serve as a departmental expert for CLIA, CAP, JCAHO, and OSHA regulations.
  • Facilitate the distribution of proficiency survey materials, submit results, and evaluate results. Issue ERFs with follow up for any proficiency failures. Communicate results to the appropriate director and obtain required monitoring and signatures.
  • Conduct mock inspections to prepare the laboratory for CAP inspections.
  • Participate in the maintenance of the chemical inventory and keep current all SDS sheets in collaboration with Quality Management personnel.
  • Coordinate LIS/HIS/middleware configuration, connectivity, and testing for current and future instrumentation.
Other Information

Education Requirements:
Bachelors degree required with a minimum of 24 semester hours of science credits.
Licensure/Certification Requirements:
Requires MLS/MT (ASCP), MT (NCA) or MT (AMT) certification
Professional Experience Requirements:
Requires three years of experience at the medical laboratory technologist, cytotechnologist, or histotechnologist level.


Job Details

Legal Employer: STATE

Entity: UNC Medical Center

Organization Unit: Microbiology Laboratory

Work Type: Full Time

Standard Hours Per Week: 40.00

Salary Range:$31.04 - $44.62 per hour (Hiring Range)

Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity

Work Assignment Type: Onsite

Work Schedule: Day Job

Location of Job: US:NC:Chapel Hill

Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: No


This is a State position employed by UNC Health Care System with UNC Health benefits. If, however, you are presently an employee of another North Carolina agency and currently participate in TSERS or the ORP, you will be eligible to continue participating in those plans at UNC Health.


Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran or political affiliation.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.

Required
    Preferred
      Job Industries
      • Healthcare