Lab Assistant Work

Lab assistant work is usually associated with clinics, health centers, hospitals, and private laboratories which include the job of assisting other lab personnel, precisely the medical lab technologists. Yet, the lab assistants have several other autonomous responsibilities to carry out such as sterilizing apparatus; operating laboratory machines viz., centrifuge or autoclave tool; preparing specimen samples; etc.

Lab assistants are involved in performing plain laboratory tests and managing the specimens. Moreover, these lab assistants undertake many grave responsibilities and are expected to undergo appropriate training. However, it is found that the lab technicians typically get paid less than what the laboratory technologists regularly earn.

Lab assistants generally start drawing a salary which ranges from $20,000 to $40,000 annually. The salary compensation may vary from place to place. Lab assistants are required to perform their tasks independently, however they may be required to work with lab technicians or technologists. They are habitually go-getters who are competent enough to complete obligatory tasks allotted to them.

Requirements of Lab Assistant

The requirements of lab assistant job profile are as follows:

• High school diploma, graduation, Health-care Diploma / Certification from recognized university or institution
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, knowledge about the concepts in chemistry and mathematics, capability to follow oral instructions given by the higher personnel in a professional manner, ability to understand and interpret procedural manuscripts and similarly, organize them in the prescribed order
• Knack of writing moderately and superior computer handling skills
• Ability to have concern for the patients and a humanizing character to offer care during emotionally demanding circumstances
• Methodical routine of work, ability to meet deadlines, and flexibility towards work schedules

Job Profiles of Lab Assistant

The job profiles of lab assistant are given below:

• Chemistry Lab Assistant: Chemistry lab assistants work in governmental organizations, universities, and private corporations. They need to have a practical experience about handling particular lab apparatus, chemicals or software. They should also possess knowledge about statistical analysis, theories of chemistry and other sciences

• Clinical Lab Assistants: The work of chemical lab assistants includes identifying, detecting, and treating of various diseases. They perform phlebotomy and regular tests in medical laboratories. They also preserve the records of medical results. They usually work in clinical locations viz., blood banks, sanatoriums or doctor's offices

• Computer Lab Assistant: Computer lab assistants scrutinize the computer lab and generally assist the users. They have to undergo basic training and need to be acquainted with the software and hardware of the lab computers. They routinely check the maintenance of machines and existing software licensing. At times, they also troubleshoot if any problem arises

• Biology Lab Assistant: Biology lab assistants assist in checking experiments; upholding and setting up of laboratory tools; calculating, observing, and recording of results. They also examine substances like blood, food, and drugs and contribute towards investigation and discovering treatment for diseases

• Optical Lab Assistant: Optical lab assistants are responsible for measuring the vision of the patients and performing basic diagnosing experiments. They assist the optometrists in the testing of color blindness and eye pressure. They also help in placing eye drops and handling eye-testing machineries

Work Conditions of Lab Assistant Jobs

Lab assistants are normally present in the laboratories conducting the tests assigned to them. Their work stations are clean, tidy, and in sanitary conditions. Duty hours differ depending on the location of their service whether they are working in independent infirmary, hospitals, clinics, laboratory or specialty health-care facility. However, they usually work 40 hours a week. They are required to utilize safety gears as they may be exposed to perilous materials, toxic supplies, chemicals or infectious samples. Otherwise, such circumstances can pose danger to their lives.

Job Prospects of Lab Assistant

The prospects of lab assistant jobs are predicted to amplify swiftly. Lab assistants can progress to senior job profiles or may even change to a different comparable occupation in the same field with the help of added education, training, knowledge, and practical experience.

As suggested by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, eligible candidates can look forward for a speedy growth and outstanding job opportunities in lab assistant work.