ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Science Lab Assistant Jobs in Ridgefield, WA (NOW HIRING)

Keliomics, Inc.

Lab Technician

Portland, OR

$50K - $65K/yr

... scientific team with daily experimental work and laboratory operations. This is a hands-on ... Assist with quality control measures, including regular mycoplasma testing. · Support lab ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScience Lab Assistant JobsScience Lab Assistant Jobs in Ridgefield, WA

Science Lab Assistant information

See Ridgefield, WA salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do science lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for science lab assistant in Ridgefield, WA is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

The average salary for a science lab assistant varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 annually. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Pay may also depend on the type of laboratory and the level of responsibility involved.

What are the duties of a science lab assistant?

A science lab assistant is responsible for preparing laboratory equipment and materials, setting up experiments, maintaining safety protocols, and assisting teachers or scientists during lab activities. They also clean and organize lab spaces, ensure proper storage of chemicals and supplies, and may handle basic data recording or equipment maintenance.

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

To thrive as a Science Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and basic scientific principles, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry systems, and chemical handling certifications are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and smooth teamwork. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining a safe lab environment and supporting successful scientific experiments.

What does a lab assistant do?

A science lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing experiments, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often handle tasks such as setting up materials, cleaning lab spaces, and assisting scientists or students with experiments, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of lab procedures.

What are some typical challenges a Science Lab Assistant may face during daily lab operations?

Science Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks under time constraints, maintaining strict safety and cleanliness standards, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. They must also ensure accurate labeling and recording of samples, which requires strong attention to detail. Collaborating effectively with researchers and other lab staff is crucial, as miscommunication can affect experimental outcomes.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a science lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require post-secondary education in science or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and basic knowledge of safety procedures. Certifications in laboratory safety or first aid can be advantageous.

What are Science Lab Assistants?

Science Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientists, teachers, and students in laboratory environments. Their responsibilities typically include preparing and maintaining lab equipment, organizing materials, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and assisting with experiments or demonstrations. They play a crucial role in maintaining the smooth operation of a laboratory by managing supplies, cleaning workspaces, and sometimes helping record data or results. Science Lab Assistants work in educational institutions, research facilities, and industrial labs.
What cities near Ridgefield, WA are hiring for Science Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Ridgefield, WA with the most Science Lab Assistant job openings:
Science Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Lab Assistant job openings in Ridgefield, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,686 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Specimen Processing Specialist

Specimen Processing Specialist

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

$24.58 - $33.26/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Prepare and process patient specimens for laboratory testing including loading, centrifuging, measuring, and directing samples.

  • Perform data entry for received samples, including checking accuracy and labeling specimens, requisitions, and containers.

  • Coordinate and prepare samples for shipment to outside labs, including entering test requests, completing paperwork, and packing samples according to standards.

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview
The purpose of this position is to provide technical support for patient care activities in the laboratory by performing data entry, billing, client services, sample processing, resulting, filing, and laboratory procedures. The major duty is to prepare patient specimens for laboratory testing, which includes determining specimen acceptability, answering telephone inquires, and multi-tasking while working quickly and accurately. The person filling this position will be of professional demeanor and perform their duties with an attitude which will best serve the clients of the department, OHSU, and outside the organization.
Function/Duties of Position
Specimen receipt and processing
  • Loads specimens onto automation line for processing.
  • Centrifuges samples and transfers to appropriately labeled containers.
  • Accurately measures specimens, records volumes, and determines if sample quality and quantity is sufficient for testing.
  • Directs samples to technologists and testing areas either manually or using the automation lines, or stores samples for future testing.
  • Makes slides for staining.
  • Notifies technologists or appropriate lab when priority work is received.
  • Determines acceptability of specimens received and calls ward or physician to clarify orders or advise of unacceptable samples.

Performs data entry for samples received for testing
  • Checks accuracy of specimens, requisitions, labels.
  • Performs computer entry in Epic HIS system.
  • Handles and processes samples for many labs on and off campus.
  • Accurately labels samples, requisitions, and appropriate specimen containers.
  • Is responsible to see that all samples are logged in to the lab and triaged in a timely manner.

Coordinates and prepares samples to be shipped to outside labs for patient care and drug study testing
  • Enters test requests into dedicated referral lab computer.
  • Fills out paperwork carefully and thoroughly to ensure accurate testing.
  • Packs infectious shipping samples per IATA standards.
  • Utilizes electronic systems provided by referral labs to transmit orders.

Other Duties as Assigned
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma and at least two years of college lab science courses, plus one year of college math or computer courses OR
  • High school diploma and two years of clinical lab experience OR
  • High school diploma and successful completion of a Lab Assistant Training program including clinical lab experience

Training or experience demonstrating:
  • Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques;
  • Knowledge of laboratory terminology, equipment, and materials;
  • Knowledge of basic math;
  • Ability to follow formulas accurately;
  • Ability to handle, package, and store laboratory specimens and materials;
  • Ability to operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment;
  • Ability to learn routine testing methods, procedures, and techniques;
  • Ability to keep accurate records in conformance with laboratory procedures; and
  • Ability to follow written and verbal procedures (instructions).

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Two years in a clinical laboratory including sample receipt, sample processing, customer service, multi-line phone use.
  • Training or experience demonstrating proficiency with healthcare/lab information systems.

Additional Details
Positions in the laboratory and environs may require working flexible schedules including nights weekends
and holidays; working at multiple laboratory or hospital sites; traveling between laboratories and sites by
stairs, elevator, tram, shuttle or other means; exposure to blood and body fluids, chemical hazards, radiation;
working in a somewhat noisy and crowded environment; wearing gloves and other Personal Protective
Equipment for long periods of time; experiencing occasional temperature fluctuations in building.
Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Oregon Health & Science University logo

About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

View All Oregon Health & Science University Jobs

Apply