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Entry Level Lab Assistant Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Lab Manager, Client Services Manager Job Summary: The Field Technician I is responsible for ... This entry-level role supports field operations by following standard procedures, completing ...

Entry Level Lab Assistant information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$9

$18

$27

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

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab assistant in Columbia, SC is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $21.35 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.

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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Assistant job openings in Columbia, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,960 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Commodities Technician (6pm-6:30am)

NEPHRON SC, LLC

West Columbia, SC

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description

Commodities Technician will perform all duties as assigned or apparent. A Tech will make contact and coordinate with different departments and resources to ensure resin processes are maintained. A Tech will be able to identify all types of resins, regrind, and purge. Techs will clear and separate all waste gaylords with the correct labeling. Finally, Techs will monitor all movement of said commodities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Perform On-the-Job (OJT), group and one-on-one trainings from department personnel.

Contact and coordinate with different departments and resources.

Evaluate and communicate training needs to upper management.

Performs all other duties as assigned or apparent.

Assist and monitor the receipt and release of railcars

Follow up with the Quality department to ensure testing

Maintain company equipment/tools utilized for resin transfers

Complete understanding of how to use the HMI for resin transfer

Check railcars for moisture levels

Assist coordinating quality sampling with the Quality Assurance department upon resin receipt

Monitoring and clearing "knuckle" of all regrind and purge

Assist with movement of wet-waste gaylords from the "knuckle" to the E80 warehouse

Monitoring of the resin regrind room, silo room, and blower house

Maintaining cleanliness of railcar area, blower house, silo room, and resin regrind room.

Grinding, weighing, labeling, and loading of ground resin and purge onto the outbound trailer

Ensuring all resin transfers from start to finish are properly documented and performed using guidance SOPs

Supplemental Functions:  

  • Copying, filing, and scanning of documents
  • Fork lift operation
  • Regrind troubleshooting
  • Performs other similar duties as required

Requirements

Knowledge & Skills: 

  • MUST PASS DRUG TEST
  • Must speak, write, and read English.
  • A broad perspective that aligns decisions to organizational objectives and long-term consequences of day-to-day activities.
  • The ability and willingness to change direction and focus to meet shifting organizational and business demands in a      fast-paced environment.
  • The ability to create and contribute to an environment that values safety, people, encourages trust, teamwork, open      communication, and provides participation, learning, feedback and      recognition.
  • The ability to effectively manage one self, demonstrate integrity, be productive under pressure, and achieve development goals
  • The ability to manage a multitude of resources and to be accurate and current with data and information.
  • Incumbents are required to wear PPE as assigned by management.
  • Incumbents are required to comply with proper gowning requirements and other non-specified protective equipment as necessary.
  • Incumbents may be required to wear safety glasses, hearing protection, bouffant, and laboratory coats and other non-specified protective equipment as necessary.

Education/Experience:  

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Previous training in BFS or manufacturing settings experience preferred
  • Computer experience: Excel, Word

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:

  • Position requires lifting (up to 60 lbs.), vision (20/20), bending (waist to floor), climbing (floor to ceiling), reaching (floor to overhead), standing (75%), sitting (5%), walking (20%), gripping, talking, typing, and hearing.