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Entry Level Biology Lab Tech Jobs in Raleigh, NC

QC Lab Technician

Durham, NC · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

... C Lab Technician Duration: 12 Months Location: On-site at Durham, NC Only W2 candidates are ... biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field About us: DivIHN , the 'IT Asset Performance ...

Molecular Laboratory Technician (NC)

Durham, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Assists technologist team with various lab duties. * Performs moderate, and/or highly complex ... biological sciences; or Associates degree in Laboratory Science/Medical Technology or in the ...

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Entry Level Biology Lab Tech information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$23

$49

How much do entry level biology lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level biology lab tech in Raleigh, NC is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Biology Lab Tech vs Laboratory Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Biology Lab TechLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer post-secondary education
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, educational institutions, biotech companiesHospitals, clinics, research facilities, educational settings
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in scientific research, biotech, and academic labsHealthcare, clinical, and research environments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in biology labsAssisting lab operations and technical tasks

Both roles support laboratory functions but differ mainly in credentials and work settings. Entry Level Biology Lab Techs typically require specialized education and work in research or biotech labs, while Laboratory Assistants often have a high school diploma and work in healthcare or clinical environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position for their skills and career goals.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Biology Lab Techs, and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Biology Lab Techs often face challenges such as mastering complex laboratory equipment, maintaining strict attention to detail during experiments, and adapting to fast-paced environments where priorities may shift quickly. To address these challenges, it's helpful to proactively seek mentorship from senior staff, participate in on-the-job training, and develop strong organizational habits. Clear communication with team members and a willingness to ask questions can also facilitate a smoother transition into the lab environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Biology Lab Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Biology Lab Tech, you need a foundational knowledge of biology, good laboratory techniques, and at least a bachelor's degree in a biological science. Familiarity with lab equipment such as microscopes, pipettes, and spectrophotometers, as well as experience using laboratory information management systems (LIMS), is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and effective teamwork, all of which are critical for reliable scientific results.

What does an Entry Level Biology Lab Tech do?

An Entry Level Biology Lab Tech assists scientists and researchers by preparing laboratory materials, conducting basic experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They may also be responsible for cleaning workspaces, handling biological samples, and recording results accurately. This role is essential for supporting ongoing research and ensuring the lab operates smoothly. Entry-level techs often gain valuable hands-on experience that can lead to more advanced positions in research or healthcare.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Biology Lab Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Biology Lab Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Biology Lab Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Biology Lab Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Biology Lab Tech jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Biology Lab Tech job openings:
Medical Laboratory Scientist - Microbiology

Medical Laboratory Scientist - Microbiology

Lighthouse Lab Services

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Medical Laboratory Scientist III (MLS III) - Microbiology

Location: Raleigh, NC
Schedule Options:

  • Full-Time | Monday–Friday (rotating weekends) | 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Position Summary

Lighthouse Lab Services is partnering with a leading healthcare organization in the Raleigh, NC area to identify experienced Medical Laboratory Scientists III (MLS III) to join its Microbiology Laboratory team.

The MLS III is a senior-level laboratory professional responsible for performing and overseeing complex diagnostic testing within the Microbiology Laboratory, ensuring quality and regulatory compliance, and serving as a technical resource within the department. This role requires advanced expertise in clinical microbiology, including organism identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, specimen processing, and laboratory quality systems.

The ideal candidate is an ASCP-certified Medical Laboratory Scientist with a strong background in microbiology and experience in high-complexity testing environments. This individual will play a key role in delivering accurate and timely laboratory results that directly impact patient care while supporting quality initiatives, staff development, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform moderate- and high-complexity microbiology testing in accordance with established laboratory procedures.
  • Process and analyze a variety of clinical specimens for bacteriology, mycology, parasitology, virology, and molecular microbiology testing as applicable.
  • Perform culture setup, organism identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and result interpretation.
  • Analyze, verify, and report patient test results accurately and efficiently.
  • Evaluate microbiological findings and communicate critical or unusual results according to laboratory protocols.
  • Operate, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot microbiology instrumentation, automated identification systems, and molecular diagnostic platforms.
  • Review quality control, quality assurance, and proficiency testing data to ensure laboratory accuracy and compliance.
  • Assist with validation, verification, and implementation of new methodologies, instrumentation, and workflows.
  • Ensure compliance with CAP, CLIA, Joint Commission, and other applicable regulatory standards.
  • Serve as a technical resource and subject matter expert for laboratory staff.
  • Support competency assessments, staff training, onboarding, and continuing education initiatives.
  • Participate in laboratory quality improvement, process optimization, and operational excellence projects.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory documentation, inventory controls, and workflow standards.
  • Collaborate with pathologists, laboratory leadership, infection prevention teams, and healthcare providers to support quality patient care.

Qualifications

Education

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, Microbiology, or a related biological science from an accredited institution.

Experience

Required:

  • Minimum of 2 years of clinical laboratory experience performing moderate- and high-complexity testing in a Microbiology Laboratory.

Preferred:

  • Experience with culture interpretation, organism identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
  • Experience with automated microbiology instrumentation and molecular microbiology platforms.
  • Experience serving as a technical lead, senior technologist, or laboratory resource.
  • Advanced troubleshooting and instrumentation experience.
  • Experience with method validations, quality management systems, and regulatory inspections.

Certification

Required or Strongly Preferred:

  • MLS(ASCP)CM, MT(ASCP), or equivalent nationally recognized certification recognized under CLIA personnel requirements.

Additional Requirement:

  • A clinical microbiology background is required. Candidates without recent microbiology laboratory experience will not be considered.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive compensation package
  • Shift differential opportunities for eligible schedules
  • Sign-on bonus and/or relocation assistance available for select openings
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits
  • Paid time off and holiday pay
  • Professional development and career advancement opportunities
  • Supportive team environment within a respected healthcare organization

About Lighthouse Lab Services

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we help laboratories start, grow, and thrive. Our recruiting team has more than 22 years of experience placing laboratory professionals nationwide, from Medical Laboratory Scientists and Histotechnologists to Laboratory Managers and Directors. We partner with hospitals, health systems, reference laboratories, physician groups, and diagnostic organizations to connect top talent with meaningful career opportunities.

Lighthouse Lab Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees and applicants. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process.

For immediate consideration, apply today.

Lighthouse Lab Services
844-974-1929
www.lighthouselabservices.com

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