Laboratory Assistant Role Description

Math > Laboratory Assistant

Salary National Average

Low	Medium	High
42670.0000	45990.0000	51200.0000

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Short Description:

A Laboratory Assistant provides support in conducting experiments and maintaining laboratory equipment. They assist with preparing materials, collecting samples, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. The role involves recording data, cleaning and sterilizing equipment, and helping researchers with various tasks. Laboratory Assistants should have a strong understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a team environment.

Duties / Responsibilities:

Assist in the collection, labeling, and preparation of samples for testing, including blood, tissue, and other biological materials.
Set up, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment such as microscopes, centrifuges, and spectrometers, ensuring they are functioning properly.
Perform basic tests and procedures under supervision, such as preparing slides, staining specimens, and conducting simple chemical tests.
Keep track of laboratory supplies and reorder items when necessary, ensuring that all equipment and materials are stocked and available for use.
Adhere to safety guidelines to prevent contamination, accidents, or exposure to hazardous substances, ensuring the laboratory maintains a sterile and safe environment.
Record test results accurately, maintain detailed logs of experiments, and assist in the preparation of reports and scientific documentation.
Provide support for research projects, including assisting in experiments, data collection, and preparation of samples or specimens.
Ensure laboratory equipment is thoroughly cleaned, sterilized, and properly stored, maintaining a tidy and organized work environment.
Label and catalog samples and materials, ensuring that they are properly stored and easy to access for future testing.
Work closely with lab technicians, scientists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure smooth operations and accurate test results.

Skills / Requirements / Qualifications

Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is required; an associate’s degree or coursework in laboratory science, biology, or chemistry is preferred.
Basic Laboratory Knowledge: Understanding of laboratory techniques and equipment, with the ability to follow instructions and protocols accurately and efficiently.
Attention to Detail: Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously with high attention to detail, ensuring the accuracy of test results and documentation.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to accurately record test results and collaborate effectively with other team members.
Organizational Skills: Ability to maintain an organized and efficient work environment, including managing lab inventories, cleaning schedules, and sample labeling.
Safety and Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with laboratory safety standards, including proper handling of chemicals, biological materials, and maintaining sterile conditions.
Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift and move equipment or samples, and work in a fast-paced, sometimes physically demanding environment.
Experience: Previous experience in a laboratory setting or internships in a related field may be required, although entry-level positions are available for motivated candidates.

Job Zones

Title: Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Related Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Job Zone Examples: These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, travel guides, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters, and medical assistants.
SVP Range: (6.0 to < 7.0)

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