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Biology Lab Assistant Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Assistant

Centennial, CO · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

... biological substances and products. The Laboratory Assistant is primarily responsible for ... other lab associates to complete daily activities efficiently • Other duties as assigned by ...

Laboratory Assistant

Centennial, CO · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

... biological substances and products. The Laboratory Assistant is primarily responsible for ... other lab associates to complete daily activities efficiently • Other duties as assigned by ...

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Biology Lab Assistant information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do biology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for biology lab assistant in Colorado is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Biology Lab Assistants face when supporting multiple research projects simultaneously?

Biology Lab Assistants often juggle tasks for several ongoing experiments, which can make time management and organization challenging. Prioritizing tasks, maintaining accurate records, and coordinating with different researchers are essential to ensure all projects progress smoothly. Adapting quickly to shifting priorities and effectively communicating with team members helps prevent errors and keeps the lab running efficiently. Building strong organizational habits and seeking clarification when needed are key strategies for success in this role.

Can I work in a lab with just a biology degree?

A biology degree can qualify you for entry-level lab assistant positions, especially if you have laboratory skills and familiarity with lab equipment. However, some roles may require additional certifications, technical training, or experience with specific tools or techniques. Advancing in the field often involves gaining practical experience and possibly pursuing further education or specialized training.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a biology lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring postsecondary education such as an associate degree or coursework in biology or related sciences. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols are also important qualifications.

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

AspectBiology Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or bachelor's in biology, chemistry, or related field; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, research labs, hospitalsResearch labs, healthcare facilities, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, research institutionsBiotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, hospitals
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles support laboratory work in biological settings, Biology Lab Assistants typically work in educational or research environments with less emphasis on technical procedures. Laboratory Technicians often have more advanced training and perform more complex testing and analysis, making them suitable for industrial or clinical settings.

What does a biology lab assistant do?

A biology lab assistant supports laboratory activities by preparing specimens, maintaining equipment, and assisting with experiments. They often handle tasks such as data recording, sample organization, and ensuring safety protocols are followed in a laboratory setting. Basic knowledge of laboratory techniques and attention to detail are important for this role.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

The average salary for a biology lab assistant ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically pay closer to the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications may earn more. Pay can also vary based on the work environment, such as academic institutions or research facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Biology Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Biology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of biological concepts, laboratory safety procedures, and basic lab techniques, often gained through relevant coursework or a degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data collection tools, and software like Microsoft Excel or laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure accurate experimental results, maintain a safe lab environment, and support smooth research operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Biology Lab jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Biology Lab jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Biology Lab Assistant jobs in Colorado? For Biology Lab Assistant jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Biology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Biology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Biology Lab Assistant job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,283 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Lead Histology Lab Assistant (Lab Tech III)

Lead Histology Lab Assistant (Lab Tech III)

University of Colorado

Aurora, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Department of Pathology
Lead Histology Lab Assistant (Lab Tech III)
Position #: 00843605 - Requisition #: 38689
Job Summary:
The Lead Clinical Laboratory (Histology) Technologist Assistant is a full-time position that performs a variety of routine and non-routine technical and administrative/clerical duties in the clinical histology laboratory setting under minimal supervision. This position requires independent judgment in selection of methodologies utilized in processing specimens and in solving non-routine problems. The Lead Clinical Laboratory (Histology) Technologist Assistant contributes to the overall efficiency of the laboratory or pathology practice in a cost effective manner by performing a variety of tasks. The Lead Clinical Laboratory (Histology) Technologist Assistant must be familiar with many laboratory policies and procedures. The position also assists in maintenance of the histology area by ordering, receiving and stocking supplies, cleaning and organizing supply storage areas, disposal of biological waste, adherence to all compliance and operational procedures.
Key Responsibilities:
80% Monitoring inventory and supply ordering
  • Ordering all supplies accurately and in a timely manner
  • Receiving supplies and logging them into the Lab Guru laboratory inventory software
  • Labeling and stocking supplies accurately
  • Physically monitoring supplies to ensure adequate par levels
  • Identifying organizational storage needs for laboratory supplies

10% Overseeing and leading all lab assistants in their duties and responsibilitie
  • Maintaining and posting the lab assistant work schedule
  • Training new lab assistants on duties and responsibilities
  • Filling in for lab assistants when necessary
  • When down a lab assistant due to vacation or call-in
  • High workload

5% Ability to adhere to established daily, monthly, and quarterly maintenance of Histology laboratory equipment.
  • has strong working knowledge of the Sakura Prisma and Prisma Plus stainer and coverslipper maintenance procedures.
  • Properly documents all maintenance performed
  • Has strong working knowledge of the Peloris III and VIP 6 tissue processor's program schedules as well as daily and monthly maintenance.
  • Properly take and records temperatures of ovens, paraffin pots and tissue processors.

5% Maintains all patient materials properly
  • Filing all blocks in appropriate drawers and in order
  • Filing and maintaining the unstained slide storage
  • Scheduling and coordinating block storage from drawers to boxes then to the basement
  • Scheduling and coordinating large scale block and unstained slides archives through the path archives.

Work Location:
Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.
Why Join Us:
Welcome to the Department of Pathology of the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The Department has grown substantially in the past 15 years, from 40 to 120 faculty in parallel with the remarkable growth of our hospital-based affiliates as well as the city and county of Denver. Our work is value driven and focused on scientific investigation, lifelong learning and a balance of personal and professional values. In addition to a vibrant and highly competitive residency program with 25 positions, we offer 9 fellowships and participate in numerous graduate school and the MD/PhD program of the CU School of Medicine.
Why work for the University?
We have AMAZING benefits and offerexceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:
  • Medical: Multiple plan options
  • Dental: Multiple plan options
  • Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
  • Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
  • Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
  • Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
  • Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
  • Holiday Days: 10/year
  • Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
  • ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
  • A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to the position equal to six (6) years.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Six (6) months of experience organizing specimens and assisting in preparing them for processing using various methodologies, complex machinery and staining systems.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of histology laboratory procedures and protocols, including specimen preparation, staining techniques (e.g., H&E), and quality assurance standards for surgical pathology.
  • Skill in operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, such as paraffin baths, cryostats, ovens, and staining systems, including performing routine preventive maintenance and minor adjustments.
  • Ability to apply independent judgment in selecting methodologies and troubleshooting non-routine problems, ensuring accurate and timely specimen processing under minimal supervision.
  • Skill in data entry and information management using Laboratory Information Systems (LIS), including accurate labeling, logging, and retrieval of specimens and archived materials.
  • Ability to adhere to safety and compliance protocols, including proper handling of biological waste, chemical solutions, and infectious materials, while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
  • Outstanding customer service skills.
  • Ability to organize workload effectively
  • Ability to follow proper protocols and procedures
  • Basic computer skills in data entry, Word, and Excel

How to Apply:
For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):
  1. Curriculum vitae / Resume
  2. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to:
Jeana Marks at Jeana.Marks@cuanschutz.edu
Screening of Applications Begins:
Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by January 27, 2025. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.
Anticipated Pay Range:
The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $67,980 - $78,852
The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Total Compensation Calculator
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
ADA Statement:
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.
Background Check Statement:
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.
Vaccination Statement:
CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.

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