MEDICAL LAB ASSISTANT SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS

Published: Nov 25, 2025 - The Medical Lab Assistant possesses hands-on experience in specimen collection, sample processing, basic laboratory testing, and maintaining sterile work environments. This role demands strong attention to detail, adherence to safety and quality control protocols, and the ability to operate laboratory equipment accurately under time-sensitive conditions. The Assistant also needs effective communication skills, proficiency with laboratory information systems, and the capability to collaborate with healthcare professionals to support efficient diagnostic workflows.

Essential Hard and Soft Skills for a Standout Medical Lab Assistant Resume
  • Specimen Handling
  • Specimen Processing
  • Phlebotomy Skills
  • Venipuncture Skills
  • Equipment Maintenance
  • Inventory Management
  • Data Entry
  • Quality Control
  • Test Ordering
  • Computer Proficiency
  • Adaptability
  • Work Prioritization
  • Operational Support
  • Communication Skills
  • Task Initiative
  • Phone Support
  • Clerical Accuracy
  • Training Support
  • Problem Reporting
  • Work Area Organization

Summary of Medical Lab Assistant Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume

1. BS in Medical Laboratory Science with 1 year of Experience

  • Graduation from an accredited Medical Assistant program.
  • Experience as a Medical Assistant.
  • Current medical assistant registration or certification through a nationally recognized and accredited certifying agency (CMA or RMA).
  • Must have a current license, certification, or other designation as required by local, state, or federal laws to work in the Medical Assistant field.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Knowledge of Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and computer skills.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, managers, and clients.

2. BS in Clinical Laboratory Science with 2 years of Experience

  • Recent lab-specific experience (hospital or clinic)
  • Experience in performing routine laboratory analytical procedures related to preparing and storing human biological samples, blood, and body fluids, for microbiological, hematological, immunohematological, and chemical analysis.
  • Able to release and/or place orders in hospital and laboratory computer systems, receive, process, and distribute specimens and/or blood products.
  • Experience in performing various functions, including loading samples onto analyzers, preparing slides for staining, and preparing samples for transport to other laboratories.
  • Ability to follow verbally communicated or written procedures.
  • Experience in routine laboratory procedures.
  • Attention to detail when performing laboratory procedures.
  • Ability to develop clear and efficient experimental documentation.
  • Must be computer literate to operate laboratory and other hospital information systems.

3. BS in Biology with 1 year of Experience

  • Phlebotomy experience or prior experience in a similar role.
  • Graduated from an accredited phlebotomy program.
  • Phlebotomy certification from the American Society of Clinical Pathology or equivalent agency.
  • Ability to accurately maintain sample and report identity using patient name and identification number through sample receipt, processing, and reporting.
  • Ability to maintain accurate and complete records and maintain strict confidentiality concerning patient information.
  • Ability to effectively greet the public, work well with patients and Hospital employees, and communicate effectively with all kinds of people.
  • Ability to follow directions and perform tasks outlined in the procedure.
  • Ability to exercise judgment and take responsibility to maintain patient health and safety during specimen collection.
  • Ability to organize work and meet deadlines.

4. BS in Biochemistry with 2 years of Experience

  • Completion of an accredited program for Medical Laboratory Assistants or Medical Assistants.
  • Current laboratory experience in a clinic or hospital setting.
  • Completion of a course in medical terminology and at least two semesters of college-level biology and/or chemistry.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to handle stressful situations.
  • Ability to analyze and develop solutions to problems and issues.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with multiple departments.

5. BS in Microbiology with 1 year of Experience

  • ASCP Phlebotomy Certification.
  • Experience working in a Medical Lab.
  • Working knowledge of the use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Customer-service oriented.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Basic medical terminology knowledge.
  • Strong typing and computer skills.
  • Ability to accurately follow directions and perform specific functions.
  • Be exposed to potentially infectious diseases.

6. BS in Biomedical Science with 2 years of Experience

  • Knowledge of laboratory techniques to perform routine laboratory tests. 
  • Knowledge of laboratory equipment and testing to perform quality control checks. 
  • Knowledge of chemistry to understand and identify reactions involved in testing. 
  • Skill in preparing written reports concerning the results of laboratory tests. 
  • Skill in anticipating and reacting calmly to emergencies. 
  • Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, and the public. 
  • Ability to follow written protocols. 
  • Ability to communicate clearly.

7. BS in Molecular Biology with 1 year of Experience

  • Certification, such as the CMA or RMA.
  • Experience using an EHR/EMR system.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Must be proficient in computer skills.
  • Knowledge and experience in a medical office and/or lab testing.
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.

8. BS in Chemistry with 2 years of Experience

  • Clinical laboratory/medical experience and office experience.
  • Pediatric phlebotomy experience.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment on a variety of tasks throughout the day.
  • Good data entry and computer skills.
  • Can work well in a team environment.
  • Ability to maintain the strictest standards of patient privacy and confidentiality.
  • Ability to do flexible shifts, including rotating weekends.
  • Experience unpacking samples.

9. BS in Biotechnology with 1 year of Experience

  • OSMT Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Certificate.
  • Experience in Core Laboratory.
  • Experience and demonstrated proficiency in blood collection and the collection of other body fluids.
  • Data entry and order entry skills in Meditech.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a team environment as well as independently.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask.

10. BA in Health Sciences with 2 years of Experience

  • BLS Provider credentialed from the American Heart Association (AHA).
  • Certification specializing in Phlebotomy, credentialed from the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP-BOC).
  • Medical Laboratory Assistant credentialed from the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
  • Medical Laboratory Assistant credentialed from the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP-BOC).
  • Tech credentialed from the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians.
  • Strong computer skills in Word and Excel.
  • Excellent information management skills to communicate, explain, interpret, share, and present information to laboratory and hospital staff.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

11. BA in Physiology with 1 year of Experience

  • Related experience in Medical Lab.
  • Good computer knowledge and data entry skills.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, managers, and clients.
  • Basic ability to work independently and manage one's time.
  • Basic knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries and diseases.
  • Basic ability to analyze data and accurately document and record results.
  • Can successfully prioritize tasks.

12. BA in Public Health (Laboratory Track) with 2 years of Experience

  • Graduated from an accredited Medical Assistant program.
  • Equivalent medical assisting experience.
  • Current Basic Life Support for Healthcare providers (AHA), or CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer (American Red Cross).
  • Strong phlebotomy skills.
  • Relevant back office, medical assisting experience.
  • Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) or Certified Medical Assistant (CMA).
  • Ability to read, write, and speak the Spanish language fluently.
  • Flexibility, self-starter, and a strong desire to learn.

13. BS in Immunology with 1 year of Experience

  • Previous laboratory processing, healthcare, and/or customer service experience.
  • Experience with computers, including Microsoft Windows software.
  • Minimum 25 wpm typing.
  • Effective communication skills to interact effectively with laboratory and hospital staff.
  • Ability to work accurately under stress, time constraints, and heavy workload demands.
  • Ability to produce quality work within a reasonable timeframe.
  • Neat and orderly work habits with great attention to detail.
  • Manual dexterity and visual accuracy.
  • Ability to efficiently move samples throughout the lab over the course of a shift.
  • Accurate computer skills.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English sufficiently.

14. BA in Forensic Science with 2 years of Experience

  • Relevant work experience in a lab.
  • Knowledge of practices and principles used in the laboratory.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety and infection control procedures and practices, including standard precautions and hazardous chemical handling.
  • Knowledge of general rules for safe exposure to chemical and blood-borne pathogens.
  • Knowledge of sterilization and decontamination procedures and hazardous waste management.
  • Knowledge of laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and terminology.
  • Advanced computer skills.
  • Ability to maintain effective reporting procedures and control workflow.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers.

15. BA in Life Sciences with 1 year of Experience

  • Successful completion from a School for Medical Technology or Medical Laboratory Technician.
  • Current certification from one of the following: The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), American Medical Technologists (AMT), American Association of Bioanalysts (ABB), The National Credentialing Agency of Laboratory Personnel (NCA), or another approved agency.
  • Clinical laboratory experience.
  • Good visual and auditory acuity.
  • Full use of hands and arms.
  • Ability to speak English clearly.
  • Ability to present information through oral and written communication effectively.
  • Ability to adjust to change, handle interruptions, and function with changing circumstances.
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