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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Connecticut salary details

$12

$22

$48

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

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Connecticut is $22.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $24.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Tech, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and a relevant science background, often supported by an associate degree or equivalent coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry software, and proper sample handling is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help ensure accuracy and teamwork. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining reliable results and supporting smooth lab operations.

How to get lab experience with no experience?

Entry level lab technicians can gain experience by volunteering or interning in laboratories, completing relevant coursework or certifications such as phlebotomy or laboratory safety, and seeking entry-level positions that provide on-the-job training. Building skills in lab techniques, safety protocols, and basic equipment use can improve chances of obtaining lab experience without prior work history.

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

AspectEntry Level Lab TechLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications varyHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, clinics, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming tests, preparing samples, recording dataAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and equipment setup

The Entry Level Lab Tech and Laboratory Assistant roles often overlap in work environment and basic responsibilities. However, Entry Level Lab Techs typically perform more technical testing and data analysis, requiring some formal education or certification, whereas Laboratory Assistants focus on supporting tasks and sample handling. Both roles serve essential functions in laboratory settings, with the Lab Tech generally taking on more technical duties.

Is a lab tech an entry level job?

A lab technician position is often considered entry level, especially for those with a high school diploma or an associate degree in a related field. Many entry-level lab tech roles require basic laboratory skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certification in specific techniques or safety procedures.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI is unlikely to fully replace lab technicians, as their role involves complex tasks such as sample preparation, equipment calibration, and interpreting results that require human judgment. However, AI can assist with data analysis, automate routine processes, and improve efficiency when combined with technical skills and laboratory tools. Lab technicians will continue to be essential for overseeing experiments and ensuring quality control.

How to get started as a lab technician?

To start as an entry-level lab technician, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and pursue relevant post-secondary education such as an associate degree in laboratory technology or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in laboratory procedures and equipment, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Laboratory Technician (CLT) can improve job prospects.

What kind of training and mentorship can I expect as an entry level lab tech?

As an entry level lab tech, you can typically expect a combination of hands-on training and supervision from experienced technicians or lab managers. Many labs provide structured onboarding processes, including safety protocols, equipment handling, and standard operating procedures. Mentorship often comes through shadowing senior staff and regular feedback sessions, which help you build confidence in your techniques and understand quality standards. Collaboration with other team members is common, and asking questions is encouraged to ensure accuracy and adherence to lab protocols.

What does an Entry Level Lab Tech do?

An Entry Level Lab Tech, also known as a laboratory technician, assists scientists and researchers by preparing and processing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data accurately. Their duties often include measuring chemicals, conducting basic experiments, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed at all times. This role is essential for keeping the laboratory running smoothly and supporting more advanced research work. Entry level positions typically require attention to detail, good organizational skills, and at least an associate degree in a science-related field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Tech jobs in Connecticut? The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Connecticut are:
What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Entry Level Lab Tech jobs? Cities in Connecticut with the most Entry Level Lab Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Connecticut as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,611 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Evening shift Respiratory Therapist *Sign-on Bonus up to $20,000*

Evening shift Respiratory Therapist *Sign-on Bonus up to $20,000*

Yale New Haven Health

New London, CT • On-site

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Yale New Haven Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 227 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

298th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
To be part of our organization, every employee should understand and share in the YNHHS Vision, support our Mission, and live our Values. These values - integrity, patient-centered, respect, accountability, and compassion - must guide what we do, as individuals and professionals, every day.
The Respiratory Care Practitioner Provides Restorative And Interventional Care To Those Patients Requiring Respiratory Care Whether For Chronic On Acute Conditions. They Provide Various Treatment Modalities For This Patient Population And Are Responsible For The Monitoring Of The Effectiveness Of These Modalities And Identifying When Another Modality Should Be Substituted For The Present Choice. The Respiratory Therapist Is A Member Of The Critical Care Team Providing Resuscitative Measures When Necessary. Additionally, The Respiratory Therapist Acts As A Resource To The Patient Care Providers, Given The Level Of Education The Therapist Possesses In The Field Of Pulmonary Medicine. The Respiratory Therapist Also Performs Ekg's, Abg's And All The Duties Included With That.
EEO/AA/Disability/Veteran
Responsibilities
  • 1. Reviews All Physician?S Orders Prior To Administering Therapeutic Modalities, Monitors For Appropriateness And Contacts Nurses Or Physicians For Clarification As Needed.
  • 2. Performs Patient Assessment Prior To And Upon Completion Of All Therapies According To Established Policies.
  • 3. Administers Various Modalities Of Respiratory Care According To Established Departmental Policies To Achieve Desired Outcome For Specific Treatment Modality And Documents Patient Response Appropriately.
  • 4. Evaluates All Patients For Response To Therapy And Refers Those Patients With Unusual/Unanticipated/Adverse Therapeutic Responses Immediately To Appropriate Individual/S As Per Department Policy For Further Intervention.
  • 5. Suggests Modification Of Treatment Plan Based On Assessment Of Patient Responses.
  • 6. Participates In Patient/Family Education With Regard To Goals Of Therapy, Proper Use Of Medications, Breathing Exercises/Techniques, Oxygen And Therapy Equipment, Skills Required To Successfully Manage Care And Other Areas Identified.
  • 7. Gathers Appropriate Data For Use In Clinical Treatment Of The Patient And Updates Every Shift As Appropriated And Documents This Process According To Department Policy/Procedures .
  • 8. Utilizes The Clinical Information System.
  • 9. Has The Knowledge Of The Operation Of All Equipment And Trouble Shooting Equipment In Various Settings According To Department Policies.
  • 10. Is Able To Perform In Emergency Situations, Utilizing Appropriate Resuscitative Techniques, Airway Management And Use Of Resuscitative Equipment.
  • 11. Provides Respiratory Care And Support For Patients Requiring Transportation Nicu Through Adult.
  • 12. Provides Support Should There Be An Oxygen System Failure.
  • 13. Participates In Cqi.
  • 14. Performs Ekg?S.
  • 15. Collects Arterial Blood Specimens For Analysis.
  • 16. Cross Trained Staff:
  • 17. Performs, Diagnostic Testing And Completes Necessary Paperwork. Pulmonary Rehabilitation Staff
  • 18. Are Responsible For The Assessment, Management And Education Of Patients Enrolled In The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Along With Interdisciplinary Team Members And The Medical Director.
  • 19. Safely Operates All Equipment According To Manufacturer Specification. Follows All Procedures On Safe Patient Interactions And Body Mechanics. Obtains And Maintains Proper Vaccines And Immunizations As Required. Adheres To All Safety Procedures In The Handling Of Hazardous Materials And Blood-Born Pathogens.
  • 20. Meets Performance Expectations For Customer Service, Teamwork, Resource Utilization, And Staff And Self Development As Outlined In Performance Review.
  • 21. Performs Other Duties As Assigned Or Directed To Ensure Smooth Operation Of The Department/Unit.

Qualifications

EDUCATION


Graduate of accredited School of Respiratory Therapy with credential of Registered Respiratory Therapist or credential of a Certified Respiratory Therapist with eighteen months to obtain RRT credential. Cross training in other department may require additional certification and training.


EXPERIENCE


May Begin As Entry Level Practitioner With No Experience But Must Successfully Attain Necessary Skills During Orientation And Probationary Period.


LICENSURE


Current State Of Connecticut License Is A Requirement.


SPECIAL SKILLS


Cross Trained staff in Cardiology , Pulmonary Lab and or Pulmonary Rehabilitation.Staff choosing to voluntarily cross train into Cardiology and or Pulmonary will be required to precept with trained staff to acquire skills in those areas including but not limited to: Pulmonary Function Testing, Methacholine Challenges, Cardiac Stress Testing, EKG/Holter/Even Monitoring, Pulmonary Rehabilitation. ACLS and Certification in Cardiology is required within a year of completed cross training in Cardiology. . The Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist Certification is required/Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist Certification preferred within 6 months of completed cross training to the Pulmonary Function Lab. After 6 months of voluntary training in the PFT lab CPFT credentials required, RPFT preferred.


YNHHS Requisition ID
134069Qualifications:

EDUCATION


Graduate of accredited School of Respiratory Therapy with credential of Registered Respiratory Therapist or credential of a Certified Respiratory Therapist with eighteen months to obtain RRT credential. Cross training in other department may require additional certification and training.


EXPERIENCE


May Begin As Entry Level Practitioner With No Experience But Must Successfully Attain Necessary Skills During Orientation And Probationary Period.


LICENSURE


Current State Of Connecticut License Is A Requirement.


SPECIAL SKILLS


Cross Trained staff in Cardiology , Pulmonary Lab and or Pulmonary Rehabilitation.Staff choosing to voluntarily cross train into Cardiology and or Pulmonary will be required to precept with trained staff to acquire skills in those areas including but not limited to: Pulmonary Function Testing, Methacholine Challenges, Cardiac Stress Testing, EKG/Holter/Even Monitoring, Pulmonary Rehabilitation. ACLS and Certification in Cardiology is required within a year of completed cross training in Cardiology. . The Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist Certification is required/Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist Certification preferred within 6 months of completed cross training to the Pulmonary Function Lab. After 6 months of voluntary training in the PFT lab CPFT credentials required, RPFT preferred.


Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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