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Temporary Lab Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Wood River Health

Medical Assistant

Hope Valley, RI · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Inventory and order medical, lab, office supplies or equipment. * Attend and actively participate ... Work assignments may be scheduled at either site on a temporary, regular, or rotating basis.

Wood River Health

Medical Assistant

Hope Valley, RI · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Inventory and order medical, lab, office supplies or equipment. * Attend and actively participate ... Work assignments may be scheduled at either site on a temporary, regular, or rotating basis.

All JobsLab JobsTemporary Lab Assistant JobsTemporary Lab Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

Temporary Lab Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do temporary lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary lab assistant in Rhode Island is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary lab assistant?

Temporary lab assistants are individuals hired on a short-term basis to support laboratory operations. They typically assist with tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data. These positions are often used to help manage increased workloads or cover for permanent staff absences. Temporary lab assistants may work in academic, research, medical, or industrial labs, and usually require some background in science or laboratory procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary lab assistant?

To thrive as a Temporary Lab Assistant, you need basic laboratory skills, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or relevant coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data entry systems like LIMS is typically required. Strong organization, reliability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining accurate records, supporting research activities, and ensuring a safe and productive lab environment.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary lab assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Temporary Lab Assistants often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new protocols and equipment in unfamiliar laboratory environments. Since assignments are short-term, learning laboratory safety procedures and workflow expectations efficiently is crucial. Building good communication with permanent staff and asking clarifying questions can help Temporary Lab Assistants integrate smoothly and avoid errors. Staying organized and keeping detailed notes can also make transitions between tasks and shifts much easier.

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

AspectTemporary Lab AssistantLab Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require relevant courseworkAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in laboratory sciences or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, hospitals, or clinicsLaboratories, research centers, hospitals, or industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, data entry, and basic lab tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining equipment, and recording results
Employment TypeTemporary, short-term, or contract basisFull-time, part-time, or contract roles, often permanent

Temporary Lab Assistants typically support laboratory operations with basic tasks and require minimal formal education, while Lab Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis, often requiring specialized degrees. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and credential requirements.

Can you get a temporary lab assistant job with no experience?

Temporary lab assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. However, having basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant coursework can improve chances of hiring. Some employers may prefer or require a high school diploma or equivalent.

How many hours do temporary lab assistants work?

Temporary lab assistants typically work between 20 and 40 hours per week, depending on the employer and project needs. Many are employed on a part-time basis, with schedules that can include evenings or weekends, and some positions may require flexible hours or short-term commitments.

How much does a temporary lab assistant get paid?

A temporary lab assistant typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on the location, level of experience, and the specific employer. Pay rates may also vary based on the complexity of tasks and whether certifications or specialized skills are required.
Temporary Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Lab Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,242 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Medical Assistant

Wood River Health

Hope Valley, RI • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Are you passionate about patient care and making a difference every day? As a Medical Assistant at Wood River Health, you will work closely with providers to deliver exceptional care while creating a positive experience for patients. 
We are proud to offer an outstanding benefits package, including generous paid time off, health insurance, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, a 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching contributions, tuition assistance, and resources that promote work/life balance and employee well-being.
In this role, you will perform essential clinical duties, including taking vital signs, conducting hearing and vision screenings, assisting with procedures, performing point-of-care testing, and obtaining diagnostic information through equipment such as EKGs. You will also help maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming clinical environment while supporting administrative functions as needed. We value professional growth and encourage ongoing learning through training programs, workshops, in-services, and team meetings.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES; include but are not limited to:

  • Morning huddle with team 
  • Prepare treatment rooms for patient examinations, keeping the rooms neat and clean. 
  • Show patients to examination rooms and prepare them for the provider. 
  • Record patients' medical history, vital statistics, or information such as test results in the EHR. 
  • Document appropriate information in the EHR; using the 4-point check, Intake OV template, complete all trackable measures 
  • Respond to providers requests, prioritize, and complete as requested 
  • Communicate with the patient's provider verbally, about their schedule. 
  • Secure guidance or help from the RN as needed. 
  • Administer vaccines to patients age 13 or older utilizing the 5 Rights of Medication Administration
  • Explain treatment procedures, medications, diets, or physicians' instructions to patients. 
  • Clean and sterilize instruments and dispose of contaminated supplies. 
  • Perform general office duties, such as answering telephones, and completing insurance forms. 
  • Completing prior authorizations for medication and radiology.
  • Maintain ongoing tracking and appropriate documentation of referrals.
  • Review details and expectations about referrals with patients.
  • Assist patients in problem solving potential issues regarding their healthcare.
  • Refers patients and families to in-house services, (e.g., Case Management, Behavioral Health, Community Resource Specialist, WIC, medical and dental staff) or community-based referrals (e.g., mental health specialty care, substance abuse treatment, social services) that effectively address patient’s needs;
  • Perform required behavioral health and other age-related screenings as clinically indicated.
  • Inventory and order medical, lab, office supplies or equipment. 
  • Attend and actively participate in trainings and other meetings as assigned
  • Maintain strict confidentiality in all matters
  • Operate within the scope of the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act to safeguard the privacy of protected patient health information 
  • Enliven and support the mission, vision, and values of Wood River Health
  • Adhere to organizational policies and procedures and Wood River Health Compliance Program Standards
  • Performing other duties as assigned to meet business needs

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

None

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Completion of an Associate’s degree or certification program in medical assisting, preferred
  • Experience in health care setting, required, community health center, preferred 
  • Knowledge of referral process and insurance companies, preferred
  • Medical terminology knowledge, preferred
  • Electronic Health Record experience, preferred
  • Ability to effectively use MS Office Suite, Internet, and email
  • Cultural sensitivity necessary to work with a diverse patient and staff population

LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATION:

  • Medical Assistant certification, preferred
  • CPR certification, required

WORK ARRANGEMENT:

This position is fully onsite. The employee must be able and willing to work at both the Hope Valley and Westerly locations as business needs require. Work assignments may be scheduled at either site on a temporary, regular, or rotating basis.


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