2

Entry Level Lab Assistant Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

People also search for

Entry Level Lab Assistant information

See Hawaii salary details

$10

$21

$30

How much do entry level lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab assistant in Hawaii is $21.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $23.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get lab experience with no experience?

Entry level lab assistants can gain experience by volunteering or interning in laboratories, taking relevant courses in biology or chemistry, and learning basic lab skills such as pipetting and data recording. Obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can also improve employability and demonstrate commitment to laboratory work.

What is an Entry Level Lab Assistant job?

An Entry Level Lab Assistant supports scientists and researchers by performing basic laboratory tasks, such as preparing samples, organizing lab equipment, and recording data. They follow strict safety protocols and ensure the lab stays clean and organized. This role is ideal for individuals with a background in science who want hands-on experience in a laboratory setting. Depending on the workplace, lab assistants may work in medical, research, or industrial labs. It is a great starting position for those looking to advance in the scientific field.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Entry level lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring post-secondary education or coursework in science. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important; certifications in safety or specific techniques can be advantageous.

How to get a lab assistant job without experience?

To get an entry-level lab assistant position without experience, focus on highlighting relevant skills such as attention to detail, basic laboratory techniques, and familiarity with lab equipment. Obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training or basic laboratory courses can also improve your chances. Volunteering or internships can provide practical experience and demonstrate your interest in the field.

Can I be a lab assistant with no experience?

Entry level lab assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. However, having basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant skills can improve your chances of being hired. Certifications or coursework in science or laboratory techniques may also be beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Lab Assistant position, and why are they important?

To excel as an Entry Level Lab Assistant, you need basic laboratory skills, familiarity with safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring coursework or experience in biology or chemistry. Experience using laboratory equipment like centrifuges, pipettes, and data entry systems is often valuable. Strong attention to detail, communication, and time management skills help you stand out in the role. These abilities ensure that laboratory procedures are performed accurately, efficiently, and safely, supporting the overall success of scientific projects.

What are some typical daily tasks for an Entry Level Lab Assistant?

Entry Level Lab Assistants typically handle tasks such as preparing and labeling samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, recording data, and helping maintain a clean and organized workspace. You may also assist senior lab staff with routine experiments and monitor inventory of supplies. The role often involves following strict safety procedures and ensuring all activities comply with laboratory standards. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to lab techniques and a collaborative team environment, making it an excellent starting point for those interested in scientific careers.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Hawaii? For Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Hawaii look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Hawaii are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Assistant job openings in Hawaii as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,754 per year, or $21 per hour.
Science Lab Assistant

Science Lab Assistant

Hawaii Pacific University

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$18.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Hawaii Pacific University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: $18.27 Hourly
Location : HPU Downtown Campus; Honolulu
Job Type: Staff - Regular Full Time Non-Exempt
Job Number: 02690
Department: Science Lab
Opening Date: 04/28/2026
Hawai'i Pacific University is designated as an Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian (ANNH) Serving Institution by the US Department of Education. As such, we strive for accurate displays of the Hawaiian language in all our institutional materials. This includes the appropriate use of diacritical marks such as the 'okina and kahako. Unfortunately, at times external vendors and other third-party technology integrations do not support the use of these characters. Mahalo for your understanding.
Description
Job Summary:
Entry level position for an assistant to the Manager of the Instructional Science Laboratories who will assist in the maintenance of the laboratories and in the set up and implementation of all laboratory courses offered by the College of Natural and Computational Sciences.
Location: This position is located in downtown Honolulu at our Fort Street Science Labs.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Arts or Science degree in Biology, Chemistry, Marine Science or related scientific field
  • One year experience in a university science laboratory setting
  • One year experience with handling and maintaining laboratory equipment
  • Possess a valid driver's license and clean driving abstract
  • Current certification in CPR, first aid and AED or obtain certification within 30 calendar days of hire.
Desired Qualifications:
  • One year work experience as a lab assistant in support of multi-disciplinary undergraduate teaching labs
  • One year experience with handling and maintaining field laboratory equipment
  • Oral and written communication skills to support effective interaction with various levels of employees including students, faculty, and staff
  • Ability to listen actively and demonstrate understanding
  • Ability to make timely decisions appropriate to fit situation, circumstances, and facts at hand, including in emergency situations
  • Ability to visualize concepts presented verbally and in rough sketches
  • Ability to follow an activity, project, or plan of action through implementation
  • Ability to meet deadlines for assigned reports and projects
Other Qualifications:
  • Report to work obligations to support the department and may require work during HPU's winter break, if necessary.
  • Must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with the Protection of Minors policy.
  • Able to work all shifts and extended hours.
  • Upon hire, candidate must have reliable transportation to all HPU worksites and other locations as required by the position.
  • Successful candidate will be able to work in an environment that utilize excellent time and stress management skills.

Key Responsibilities/Essential Job Functions:
1. Assist in set-up of preparations for scheduled laboratory sessions. (30%)
  • Perform and/or assist in the preparation of all solutions, chemical, reagents, media, etc. needed to support laboratory sessions.
  • Assist in maintaining stock cultures of bacteria, fungi, fruit flies and other organisms.
2. Perform laboratory maintenance routines to include such activities as physical cleaning of the laboratories, stock room and office-storage space. (30%)
  • Clean and store material from each laboratory session, including glassware, instruments and supplies.
  • Monitor laboratory equipment on a routine basis, and informs the Director of any equipment needing service and/or repair.
  • Assist in the monitoring and maintenance of the laboratories' safety equipment.
3. Assist in maintaining an adequate stock of supplies, etc. needed to operate the University Science Laboratories. Assist in the determination of materials and supplies required to support current and future laboratory sessions as established by the curriculum. (15%)
4.Provide assistance to users during scheduled laboratory sessions and unscheduled times. (10%)
5.Perform the collection of organisms needed for laboratory sessions from land and water. (5%)
6. Performs other related duties as assigned (5%)
  • Actively participates as an effective member of team by completing assigned duties, accepting additional assignments or reassignments.
  • Assists with seasonal peaks.

This description is not designed to list all activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required for this job. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned at any time.
Hawaii Pacific University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable environment in which faculty and staff can excel irrespective of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, marital status, or any other protected class covered by state and federal law. Hawaii Pacific University encourages applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities. A pre-employment background investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.
Hawai'i Pacific University is a learning community where staff, faculty, and more than 5,000 students come together from around the world to learn and work in a spirit of caring, honesty, freedom, and 'ohana (family).
Cooperation, communication, and collegiality are the foundation of our community. We fulfill the responsibilities of our educational mission through mutual trust and respect, innovation and involvement, expertise, and intellectual fellowship. We offer all members of our community the opportunity to excel, including resources and rewards commensurate with individual contributions and potential. As a team, we are committed to serving our local and global communities and embrace our values of aloha, pono, and kuleana.
We seek talented and energetic people who thrive on challenge and innovation in supporting the mission and values of our university. HPU offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.
For student employment, please visit
Why consider a career with HPU? Here are some of the benefits of employment . . .
Time Off A generous schedule that recognizes 15 holidays annually, plus winter break days off between Christmas and New Year's. Eligible employees also receive vacation, sick and other types of paid leave.
Tuition Waiver Full time employees and spouse/dependent children pursuing a higher education degree at HPU may apply for a tuition waiver.
Health and WellnessComprehensive health insurance, life and disability insurance, employee assistance program and wellness program.
Retirement Plan Eligible employees can start saving for the future and enroll in the Hawai'i Pacific University 403(b) retirement plan upon hire.
Discounts Discounts for products and services including airlines, rental car, hotels, theme parks, attractions, gift cards, restaurants, and more.
01
Do you possess a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree in Biology, Chemistry, Marine Science or related scientific field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have one year experience in a university science laboratory setting ?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have one year experience with handling and maintaining laboratory equipment ?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have a valid driver's license and clean driving abstract?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have a current certification in CPR, first aid and AED or obtain certification within 30 calendar days of hire. ?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question