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Temporary Lab Assistant Jobs in Queens, NY (NOW HIRING)

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Bronx, NY · On-site

$2.4K - $3.2K/wk

As a Cardiac Catheterization Technologist, you will perform imaging procedures and assist in the ... Temp-to-perm employment * Direct-hire personnel * Per Diem * Staffing for every segment of the ...

Research Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$22.85 - $27.58/hr

Temporary * End Date if Temporary: 9/1/2027 * Hours Per Week: * Standard Work Schedule: * Building ... Handling small animals and perfusions. (20%) Assist in maintenance of lab safety protocols;

Travel Cath Lab Tech

Rahway, NJ · On-site

$2.3K - $3.1K/wk

Recognize life-threatening arrhythmias and respond appropriately. * Assist with various ... Temp-to-perm employment * Direct-hire personnel * Per Diem * Staffing for every segment of the ...

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Temporary Lab Assistant information

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How much do temporary lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary lab assistant in Queens, NY is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.09 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.

What cities near Queens, NY are hiring for Temporary Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Queens, NY with the most Temporary Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Temporary Lab Assistant job openings in Queens, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,944 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab)

Rutgers University

Piscataway, NJ • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist with experiments investigating RNA-targeting type VI CRISPR-Cas systems.

  • Perform molecular cloning, plasmid analysis, bacterial cell transformations, and growth experiments.

  • Prepare RNA samples for RNA sequencing and support overall laboratory operations, including supply and equipment ordering.


Rutgers University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab)
Posting Number
26TM0303
Department
Waksman Institute of Microbiol
Overview
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a leading national research university and the State of New Jersey's preeminent, comprehensive public institution of higher education. As one of the largest employers in the State of New Jersey, Rutgers University is committed not only to the students and the State that we serve, but also to the faculty and staff who work on our campuses.
For two consecutive years, Rutgers is ranked on Forbes' list of America's Best Large Employers. Rutgers holds #64 of 500 employers and is the #1 New Jersey employer on the publication's 2023 list. Rutgers' commitment to its employees includes maintaining and fostering a safe, diverse, and respectful workplace environment, creating employment opportunities for our nation's military veterans, and ensuring accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a seasonal Laboratory/Technical Assistant (Semenova Lab) for the Waksman Institute.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
  • Assists with experiments investigating RNA-targeting type VI CRISPR-Cas systems.
  • Performs molecular cloning and plasmid analysis.
  • Conducts bacterial cell transformations and growth experiments.
  • Prepares RNA samples for RNA sequencing and downstream analyses.
  • Supports overall laboratory operations, including supply and equipment ordering.

FLSA
Nonexempt
Salary Details
$20 - $25 per hour
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
  • Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
  • Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
  • Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Employee discount programs

Position Status
Full Time
Working Hours
40 hours per week
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.
Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft
Terms of Appointment
Temporary Staff Appointment - Hourly
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or a related scientific/technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant laboratory technician or research study experience carrying out research protocols and tests, or other technical work may be substituted for the degree.

Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Hands-on experience with microbiological, molecular biology, and RNA biology protocols, including RNA purification and analysis.
  • Proficiency in using centrifuges, pipettes, electrophoresis and electroporation equipment, PCR machines, and plate readers.

Preferred Qualifications
  • At least one year of research experience.
  • Experience in lab maintenance.

Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Special Conditions
Posting Details
Posting Open Date
07/20/2026
Posting Close Date
09/20/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
City
Piscataway
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

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