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Biology Lab Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Biology Lab Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do biology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for biology lab assistant in Rochester, NY is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.79 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.

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 lab equipment, and assisting with experiments and data collection. They often follow safety protocols, work under supervision, and may need knowledge of laboratory techniques and tools such as microscopes and pipettes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biology lab assistant?

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.

How much does a biology lab assistant get paid?

The average salary for a biology lab assistant typically ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Part-time roles often pay hourly, around $12 to $20 per hour.
What are the most commonly searched types of Biology Lab jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Biology Lab jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Biology Lab Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY? For Biology Lab Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Biology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Biology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Biology Lab Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 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 $41,552 per year, or $20 per hour.

Micro Technician (12 Hour Nights - Rotating Weekends)

fairlife

Webster, NY

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Join Us - Sign-On Bonus Included!

shift schedule: 

12 Hour Nights: This is a night shift position, with hours from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM. The role follows a rotating 2-2-3 schedule: two days on, two days off, three days on, followed by two days off, two days on, and three days off. Team members will work every other weekend, including Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Shift differential of $2.00 an hour for hours worked between 6:00pm and 6:00am. 

job purpose:

Entry level position that provides key support for the Quality Department including water testing, raw milk testing, raw and pasteurized load out testing, Finished Product testing, and other microbiological testing. Employee is responsible for generating daily reports, data entry and collection, project assistance, assist in conduct of special studies, and communicating with other departments.

responsibilities:

  • Collecting and preparing samples for microbiological testing. Perform microbe colony counts on plates and record results.
  • Collect and prepare environmental samples.
  • Ability to operate lab equipment correctly. The technician will be responsible for understanding microbiological plating, pH meter and other laboratory instrumentation as needed.
  • All instrumentation is to be operated in a safe, efficient, and sanitary manner.
  • Fill out required laboratory data worksheets and logs in an accurate manner.
  • Maintain all results and reports in a confidential manner in accordance with the Company Letter of Confidentiality. Communication of results to the proper individuals in a timely, confidential, and professional manner.
  • Responsible for maintaining a clean, orderly, and neat work area at all times.
  • Must keep area stocked with sufficient supplies to perform job responsibilities.
  • Computer skills including Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Preparation of all solutions and media required in the performance of laboratory tests.
  • Recognize and notify the QC Supervisor and/or Quality Manager and appropriate operations supervisors of any unusual results or product defects. Perform the necessary re-checks for analytical and microbiological tests.
  • Report immediately to the QC supervisor and/or quality manager of any damage, irregular activity, or unsafe conditions concerning the plant equipment or lab instrumentation.
  • Follow all safety, work and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and all Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs).
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management.

skills/qualifications required:

  • Knowledge and/or experience in a laboratory environment, basic laboratory skills, and a scientific educational background with laboratory coursework.
  • Strong communication skills and willingness to learn.
  • Must be highly motivated, detail oriented, and be able to work efficiently.
  • Minimum of an associate's degree in microbiology, biology, food science or related field.
  • Ability to read, write, and understand English is required.

working conditions and physical requirements:

  • 40-45 hours/sitting/standing/walking/lifting.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Assist can be provided.

 food safety responsibilities:

  • Notify supervision of any repairs or adjustments that are required that may affect product quality or food safety.
  • Understand, observe, and comply with the handling and usage of the color-coded container policy while in the Production Areas.
  • Perform all duties necessary to meet Company, Customer and/or Government requirements/standards as prioritized by the Company.
  • Ability to initiate action to prevent the occurrence of nonconformities relating to Food Safety and the Quality of the product, processes, quality system, or safety system.
  • Identify and record any problems relating to Food Safety and the Quality of the ingredients, processes, quality system, or safety system.
  • Control further processing or delivery of nonconforming product in terms of Food Safety and Quality issues until the deficiency or unsatisfactory condition has been corrected.
  • In the event of absence, another employee with the same skill level will assume the duties and responsibilities as required.

how fairlife nourishes you: 

At fairlife, we believe in better - and that includes how we support our people. We offer a comprehensive suite of benefits and wellbeing resources designed to support you physically, emotionally, socially, and financially, both in and out of work. 

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, effective day one!
  • Supplemental health plans (hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness insurance)
  • Paid Time Off to recharge and support work-life balance
  • Paid parental leave & adoption assistance (up to $10,000)
  • Parental support & family care benefits, including childcare resources and lactation support
  • 401(k) to support retirement planning with up to 9% in employer match
  • Wellness reimbursement (up to $500 for qualified wellbeing expenses)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for emotional wellbeing and work-life support
  • Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability
  • Employer HSA funding (for HDHP participants)
  • Tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000) and student loan repayment ($200/month)
  • Learning & development programs to unlock your full potential
  • Rewards & recognition, matching gifts, free product, and Business Resource Groups
  • Our manufacturing facilities are climate-controlled and a pristine work environment 

fairlife's nour!sh program is designed to meet you where you are - supporting your individual wellbeing journey while enabling you to do your best work every day. 

position location: Webster, NY

reports to: Quality Control Supervisor

travel requirements: None

exempt/nonexempt: nonexempt

This position is bonus eligible.