lab assistant.

Some of the daily tasks of lab assistants include:

• preparing and processing specimens: as a lab assistant, you set up the lab equipment and supplies to prepare for the processing of samples. As a lab assistant, you have expertise in handling specimens and knowledge of sample preparation protocols.
• conducting experiments: as a lab assistant, you assist researchers with lab work. During experiments, you operate a selection of laboratory equipment and instruments. You ensure the lab procedures are adhered to during the experiments to avoid sample contamination and ensure accurate results. You also record detailed data during the tests and write instructions from scientists and researchers.
• analysing results: as a lab assistant, you monitor experiments and test results. You analyse the findings to observe any trends and anomalies in the experiments. You also prepare slides for review or compile reports showing the findings.
• cleaning equipment: as a lab assistant, you maintain a clean laboratory. Your primary task is to ensure the equipment is thoroughly sterilised and cleaned. Keeping the equipment clean ensures that future tests are not contaminated.
• updating records and paperwork: as a lab assistant, you keep track of experiments and maintain a schedule for the research process. You complete the necessary paperwork for the experiments and keep the records up to date.
• keeping the lab stocked: as a lab assistant, you ensure the lab is well stocked. You keep a record of the supplies required to perform various experiments. Your job is to reorder the supplies when they are running low.

As a lab assistant, you may work in a variety of environments depending on who you work for. This could include chemical and pharmaceutical companies, as well as research and educational establishments. As a lab assistant, your primary working environment is indoors in a laboratory. It's important to adhere to proper safety protocols as you may be handling dangerous materials. Wearing protective gear is also necessary to reduce any potential risks.

Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include laboratory technicians, laboratory technologists and research scientists. You might also be working in close proximity to research assistants and biologists, as well as other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, doctors, zoologists and secondary teachers.

Lab assistants usually work between 35 to 40 hours per week, and may work extra hours when a project deadline is approaching. Full-time lab assistants work typical office hours, although those working in medical settings or clinical laboratories may be required to work shifts as these labs are open 24/7. Part-time positions are also available for lab assistants.

As a lab assistant, you have multiple opportunities for career growth. For instance, a lab assistant usually progresses to a laboratory technician role. With additional qualifications, you'll be qualified to be a laboratory technologist. Some lab assistants usually improve their skills to be research scientists or laboratory directors.

Finding your lab assistant job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:

• a wide variety of training and development opportunities
• an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
• a range of opportunities in your area
• get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
• temporary and permanent contracts

Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a lab assistant is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Thousands of people earn a permanent contract every year with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.

As a lab assistant, you take home an average salary of $60,000 per year. With minimal experience and skills, your remuneration package starts at $55,000 annually. As you improve your competencies, you perform complex duties. Hence, your earnings increase to $65,000 yearly.

As a lab assistant, your role is to support the laboratory director in conducting tests and processing specimens. It is important that you adhere to safety protocols for handling blood-borne pathogens. You are responsible for documenting any abnormalities in the specimen in a medical setting. Additionally, lab assistants perform administrative and housekeeping tasks to ensure that the lab remains clean and organised.

As a lab assistant, you perform entry-level roles like assisting the laboratory director with collecting samples and conducting tests. Most of the time, you handle administrative work, like recording data for analysis and writing reports. A technician is a mid-level role, which means a lab technician performs experiments. Since lab technicians are trained in complex lab procedures, they use specialised equipment to perform experiments.

While it is possible for employers to hire lab assistants without formal education, having a vocational qualification in this field can greatly improve your career prospects. Through such a qualification, you can gain foundational knowledge in laboratory science and learn complex laboratory techniques. If you want to further enhance your job prospects, you may consider pursuing a diploma or degree in laboratory science or technology.

As a lab assistant, you require interest and passion for science. Industry-specific knowledge helps you perform the duties associated with your role. For instance, in pharmaceutical research, you require a background in pharmaceuticals. Clerical and administrative skills are also valuable since you record data and write reports on the experiments performed.

Applying for a lab assistant job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.