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Apprentice Lab Technician Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Apprentice Lab Technician information

See Texas salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do apprentice lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice lab technician in Texas is $18.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Apprentice Lab Technicians face when learning new laboratory techniques?

As an Apprentice Lab Technician, one common challenge is adapting to the precision and accuracy required for laboratory procedures, which often differ from classroom experiences. Learning to use specialized equipment and interpret results correctly can be overwhelming at first, but hands-on practice and mentorship from senior technicians help bridge the gap. Additionally, managing time efficiently to balance multiple experiments or tasks is a skill that develops with experience. Open communication with team members and a proactive approach to asking questions are key strategies for overcoming these early hurdles.

What does an Apprentice Lab Technician do?

An Apprentice Lab Technician assists more experienced technicians and scientists in laboratory settings by preparing samples, conducting basic tests, maintaining equipment, and recording results. They are usually undergoing on-the-job training to develop practical laboratory skills while also learning relevant health and safety procedures. This role is ideal for those starting their careers in science, as it provides valuable hands-on experience and often leads to further qualifications or permanent positions.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

In general, apprenticeship trades in the skilled trades industry such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC tend to offer higher wages, especially for those who gain specialized certifications or work in high-demand areas. Among these, electrical apprenticeships often have some of the highest starting wages and earning potential as they progress to journeyman and master levels.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

The lowest salary for an apprentice lab technician typically starts around $25,000 to $30,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and level of education. Entry-level positions may also offer hourly wages starting at minimum wage or slightly above, with opportunities for advancement as skills and certifications develop.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Lab Technician, you need a foundation in basic laboratory techniques, familiarity with scientific principles, and a relevant high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency in using laboratory equipment, following safety protocols, and sometimes basic computer skills for data entry are often required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and strong organizational skills help you excel in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure accurate results, maintain a safe working environment, and support the overall efficiency of laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Apprentice Lab Technician vs Laboratory Assistant?

AspectApprentice Lab TechnicianLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; ongoing training or certification programsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLearning environment within labs, often under supervisionSupport role in labs, assisting with basic tasks
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, biotech companiesHospitals, clinics, research facilities

The main difference is that Apprentice Lab Technicians are in training, often pursuing certifications and gaining hands-on experience, while Laboratory Assistants typically perform routine support tasks without formal training programs. Apprentice Lab Technicians focus on learning and development, whereas Laboratory Assistants provide operational support in lab settings.

What does a laboratory apprentice do?

A laboratory apprentice assists experienced lab technicians by preparing samples, conducting basic tests, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data. They often learn laboratory procedures and safety protocols while gaining hands-on experience in a controlled environment. This role may require attention to detail and familiarity with scientific tools and techniques.

Is MLT harder than nursing?

The Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) role generally involves technical skills, laboratory procedures, and understanding of lab equipment, while nursing requires patient care, clinical judgment, and communication skills. Both careers have their own challenges and educational requirements, but nursing typically involves more direct patient interaction and a broader scope of responsibilities. The difficulty depends on individual strengths and interests in clinical versus technical work.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Technician jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Lab Technician jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Lab Technician jobs in Texas? For Apprentice Lab Technician jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Lab Technician jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Lab Technician jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Apprentice Lab Technician jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Apprentice Lab Technician job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Lab Technician job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,515 per year, or $18 per hour.

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (DOQ)

Brownsville Public Utilities Board

Brownsville, TX • On-site

$16.83 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Brownsville Public Utilities Board rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position Title
LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (DOQ)
Position Number
211005
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Full Time/Part Time
Full Time
Salary
$16.83 - $21.00 Hourly (Depending on Qualifications)
Job Summary
Under direction performs sampling and analyses of water, wastewater and environmental, samples to support regulatory compliance, process control, and environmental monitoring programs. This position is responsible for sample preparation, analytical testing, data recording, quality control activities, and maintaining analytical testing compliance with state, federal regulations and laboratory accreditation requirements.
Responsibilities
Laboratory Technician Apprentice
Performs water, wastewater and environmental parameter sampling and standardized laboratory analyses, including sample collection, receipt, logging, preservation, analysis, and storage, in accordance with the laboratory's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Work Instructions (WIs), Quality Manual (QM), TNI Standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.Maintains orderly work area, vehicle and equipment including proper cleaning and storage.Maintains, calibrates, troubleshoots laboratory equipment and updates maintenance logs to support data quality and regulatory compliance.Receives, tracks, and maintains inventory of supplies for assigned parameters and notifies the LCC and supervisor of supply needs.Participates in required training, quality competency tests, and scheduled or emergency sampling events. Completes other job duties as assigned.
Laboratory Technician (in addition to duties listed above)
May provide leadership, training, and guidance to less experienced team members and support staff. May temporarily assume the duties of a higher-level technician as needed. Conducts routine sampling and analytical testing for assigned water or wastewater parameters within one (1) approved analytical work area, applying established laboratory methods and quality controls to support process monitoring and regulatory compliance. Executes method-specific quality control, documentation, and routine equipment care for assigned analyses, ensuring accuracy and compliance within the technician's approved scope of accreditation.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Laboratory Technician may provide leadership, training, and guidance to less experienced team members and support staff. May temporarily assume the duties of a higher-level technician as needed.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge important to perform the functions of the job include:
Knowledge and understanding of the operation of various types of analytical instruments (i.e., Automated Titrator, Amperometric Titrator, Analytical autosamplers, and Spectrophotometers.)
Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions of this trade.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations.
Skills important to perform the functions of the job include:
Skills at using laboratory and electro/mechanical equipment to collect samples.
Skills in Microsoft Office programs and laboratory related Software.
Effective communication skills both oral and written in English; bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.
Abilities important to perform the functions of the job include:
Ability to perform medium level data entry.
Ability to work independently and in a team.
Ability to adhere to all safety and environmental rules and regulations.
Ability to perform mathematical dimensional analysis and statistical computations associated with sample size and discharges.
Ability to precisely follow oral and written procedures.
Education & Experience Requirements
Laboratory Technician Apprentice
Associate's degree with major coursework in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, Microbiology, or a closely related field.
An equivalent combination of appropriate education, relevant experience, and industry credentials may substitute for the minimum requirements.
Laboratory Technician (in addition to the requirements listed above)
One (1) year responsible technical laboratory experience in a distinct laboratory section and area parameters as defined by BPUB's TCEQ's Accreditation Certificate no. T104704357.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Requires a valid Texas Driver License or receipt of a valid Texas Driver's License within 90 days of relocation to Texas and a safe driving record, as measured by company policy.
Laboratory Technician Apprentice
Must possess the class "C" Surface Water Treatment Operator License and/or the class "C" Wastewater Treatment Operator License as issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) within two (2) years of appointment.
Laboratory Technician (in addition to all requirements listed above)
Requires a class "C" Surface Water Treatment Operator License and/or the class "C" Wastewater Treatment Operator License as issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) at the time of hire.
Laboratory Technician must meet the minimum competency level of 70% on any one (1) of the listed work sections outlined in BPUB's Laboratory Technician Progression Program, including Water, Wastewater, and W/WW Microbiology.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This position requires frequent bending, lifting, walking, carrying, and the use of force equivalent to lifting up to 50 pounds. Approximately half of the work is performed in the field, with the remaining portion conducted in a standard laboratory or office environment. Fieldwork may require working in adverse weather conditions, including but not limited to sunshine, rain, or sleet.
Eligibility for Employment
In addition to any and all other qualifications required for employment stated under the Brownsville P.U.B Personnel Policies and Procedures Policy No. 39:
  • Prohibit the hiring of any person who is related to BPUB Executive Management within the third degree of Consanguinity or second degree by Affinity; and

  • Based on certain prohibitions of the Charter and Statute on nepotism, no person can be hired who shall be related to any member of the Board of Directors or City Commission within the third degree of consanguinity or second degree by affinity.

Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S730P
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions Summary
Quick Link for Internal Postings
https://bpubcareers.com/postings/2346

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