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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

Abbott

Lab Tech Jr.

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

Lab Tech Jr. Location: Gretna, Louisiana Duration: 6 Months 100% Onsite Shift Time: 6:00pm to 2:30am Job Summary: The position of Screening Technician is within our Toxicology Division. In this role ...

Good Day Farm

Kitchen Tech I

Ruston, LA · On-site

This entry level position is focused on assisting the lead(s), supervisor, and manager in the ... Understanding of the variety of tasks required in working in a lab or manufacturing setting.

Varsity Tutors

CompTIA A+ Tutor

Baton Rouge, LA · Remote

$25 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using virtual lab environments, hardware identification practice, and practice ... for entry-level CompTIA A+ certification. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify ...

All JobsLab Tech JobsEntry Level Lab Tech JobsEntry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Louisiana

Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Louisiana salary details

$11

$20

$43

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Louisiana is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $22.21 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.

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.

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 Louisiana? The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Louisiana are:
Entry Level Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Louisiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,798 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Lab Tech Jr.

Lab Tech Jr.

Abbott

Lake Charles, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Abbott rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

159th of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

Title: Lab Tech Jr. Location: Gretna, Louisiana Duration: 6 Months 100% Onsite Shift Time: 6:00pm to 2:30am Job Summary: The position of Screening Technician is within our Toxicology Division. In this role, you will be in the position for a Screening Technician as defined by SAMSHA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) in the Richmond SAMHSA-certified laboratory of Alere. The individual filling this position will be responsible for operating the instruments used to perform the initial analysis on urine and oral fluid specimens for substances of abuse with the SAMHSA mandatory guidelines and those of other regulatory organizations. Job Responsibilities:
  • Operation and maintenance of the Screening Instrument and initial review of test results for donor specimens and QC samples
  • Testing performed with refractometers and pH meters.
  • Knowledge of screening and specimen validity test methods: EIA, CEDIA, ELISA, refractometers and pH meter
  • Troubleshoot issues with screening instruments
  • Adherence to all security procedures for ensuring confidentiality of donor information
  • Adherence to all established guidelines outlined in Alere's Employee Handbook
Education:
  • BS degree in Chemistry or Biology
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced ability to understand analytical techniques and procedures
  • Advanced ability to understand laboratory instrumentation
  • Advanced ability to understand certification requirements for SAMHSA, CAP-FDT, and other relevant regulatory bodies.
  • Advanced ability to understand the function of a Laboratory Information System (LIS) and other laboratory computer systems
Competencies:
  • Ability to lift and/or move 25 pounds
  • Ability to have full body movement
  • Must have vision and hearing corrected to meet minimum acceptable norms
  • Math and reasoning ability to develop and communicate laboratory procedures and reports
  • Ability to cope with stress due to production obligations
  • Ability to read and comprehend the SOP, Federal (49 CFR Part 40), and CAP-FDT guidelines
  • Ability to communicate with other employees and supervisors
  • Ability to provide input and recommendations on operations
  • May be potential exposure to toxic or hazardous materials
Consultants Eligible Benefits Upon Waiting Period:
  • Medical and Prescription Drug Plans
  • Dental Plan
  • Vision Plan
  • Health Savings Account (for High-Deductible Health Plans)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (Health, Limited Purpose, Dependent Care, Commuter Parking and Commuter Transit)
  • Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability (coverage varies by state)
  • Long Term Disability
  • Critical Illness, Hospital coverage, Accident Insurance
  • MetLife Legal, MetLife ID Fraud, and MetLife Pet Insurance
  • 401(k)
Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritional and branded generic medicines. Working together, Abbott and Talent Solutions partner to deliver top talent for contingent roles at Abbott, building better and healthier lives. Abbott believes all employees are essential to creating life-changing breakthroughs, performing key duties to create life-changing breakthroughs.
  • Published on 08 Jul 2026, 3:12 PM

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