What does a Lab Assistant do?
Lab Assistants work in a science laboratory collaborating with Researchers and Scientists to perform experiments. They’re typically responsible for collecting and preparing various testing samples using different types of lab equipment. They’re often in charge of managing and organization all of the lab’s records and other documents. Lab Assistants stay updated on lab policies, safety regulations and other procedures to keep all lab employees and experiments safe and compliant.
They will usually work with the laboratory employees to conduct tests and experiments. The Lab Assistants will then take these results, analyze them and provide this information to their management team. They’ll also complete basic laboratory tasks, like labeling samples, cleaning the lab rooms and sterilizing equipment.
Lab Assistant skills and qualifications
Lab Assistants will typically have certain prerequisite skills or qualifications, which include:
- Excellent attention to detail
- Verbal and written communication skills
- Research and analysis skills
- Experience working with lab equipment
- Mathematic and measurement skills
- Knowledge of computer research and analysis programs
- Good teamwork skills
- Ability to keep detailed records
Lab Assistant salary expectations
A Lab Assistant makes an average of $14.35 per hour. Pay rate may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.
Lab Assistant education and training requirements
A minimum of an associate degree is often required to work as an entry-level Lab Assistant. A hiring manager may prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree for positions that require more technical assistance. A degree in biotechnology, biology or a related field is preferred for most positions, though employers could look for candidates with a degree specific to their industries. Some hiring managers may also prefer to hire Lab Assistant candidates who are certified through the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science.
Lab Assistant experience requirements
An entry-level Lab Assistant usually needs less than one year of experience as long as they have at least an associate degree. Lab Assistants without a degree usually need 2 or more years of related experience. Those with at least a bachelor’s degree can get an entry-level position once they graduate. Lab Assistants who need to perform highly technical duties usually need at least three years of specific experience. After gaining on-the-job training and additional experience, Lab Assistants receive more duties and responsibilities.
Lab Assistant samples for similar positions
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