The Clinical Lab Assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing specimens and assisting with diagnostic testing processes. They are responsible for maintaining accurate records, managing inventory, and ensuring adherence to safety and regulatory standards.
Requirements summary
Candidates must have a high school diploma, be a Maryland resident, and be eligible for the Maryland Service Year Program. Previous laboratory or healthcare experience is preferred but not required.
high schoolAttention To DetailMultitaskingCommunicationInventory ManagementOrganizationMedical TerminologyData EntrySpecimen ProcessingAliquotingCentrifugationClinical ProtocolsBiohazard Waste Disposal
Job description
Job Summary
The Clinical Lab Assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing specimens, assisting with testing processes, and ensuring accurate and timely results. This role plays a key part in patient care by helping ensure that specimens are handled correctly and laboratory processes run efficiently.
This position combines technical tasks, specimen processing, and administrative responsibilities, making it a strong entry point into laboratory careers.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent required
Maryland resident
Individuals eligible for the Maryland Service Year Program (generally ages 18–24)
Experience:
Previous laboratory or healthcare experience preferred (2 years in a related field ideal)
Licensure/Certification: None required
Skills & Abilities:
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Ability to follow clinical protocols and procedures
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Strong communication and organizational skills
Ability to multitask and prioritize work
Basic computer and data entry skills
Knowledge of medical terminology preferred
What You’ll Do
Prepare specimens for testing, including centrifugation, aliquoting, labeling, and storage
Assist technical staff with loading and unloading specimens from analyzers
Perform basic diagnostic testing and support laboratory workflows
Ensure specimens are handled, stored, and processed according to protocols
Maintain accurate records and assist with reporting results
Monitor and manage laboratory inventory and supplies
Collect and prepare biohazardous waste for proper disposal
Follow all safety, infection control, and regulatory standards
Communicate with team members to support timely and accurate results
What the Job is Really Like
This role requires high attention to detail—accuracy directly impacts patient results
Benefits
Dental Insurance
Employee Assistance Program
Life Insurance
Education Assistance Program
Paid Time Off
Health Insurance
Vision Insurance
401k Plan
Short-term Disability
Long-term Disability
Shift Differential
You’ll spend much of your time working with specimens and laboratory equipment, often performing repetitive but critical tasks
The work requires focus and consistency, especially when processing multiple samples at once
You’ll often work independently, using judgment to prioritize tasks and follow procedures
The pace can vary, but there are busy periods where turnaround time is critical
You’ll be part of a team that relies on each other to keep lab operations running smoothly
The role includes both technical tasks and clerical responsibilities, requiring strong organization
You must be comfortable working in a clinical environment with biohazard materials
Work Environment & Demands
Laboratory setting with exposure to clinical specimens and biohazard materials
Frequent standing, walking, and movement throughout the lab (see physical demands on page 3)
Requires fine motor skills and strong hand-eye coordination for specimen handling
High level of concentration and sustained attention to detail required
Fast-paced environment with multiple tasks and priorities
Combination of independent work and team collaboration
What Success Looks Like
Specimens are processed accurately, safely, and on time
Laboratory protocols and safety standards are consistently followed
Results and documentation are accurate and reliable
Inventory and supplies are well-managed
You demonstrate independence, reliability, and attention to detail
You contribute to efficient lab operations and timely patient results
Caring for Our Team We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.
Happy to Help
At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.
