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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Technician I, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are specified by written and verbal instructions and established practices, the Lab Tech I will perform ...

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are specified by written and verbal instructions and established practices, the Lab Tech I will perform ...

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are specified by written and verbal instructions and established practices, the Lab Tech I will perform ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$23

$49

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Minnesota is $23.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $25.43 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Lab Tech jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Lab Tech jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Lab Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Minnesota as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 5% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 59% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 39% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,019 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Clinical Lab Tech (Chemistry, Entry-Level)

Clinical Lab Tech (Chemistry, Entry-Level)

Actalent

Rochester, MN

$23 - $24/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Clinical Laboratory Technologist (Chemistry, Entry-Level)

Job Description

As a Clinical Mass Spectrometry Technologist, you will perform analyses on blood, tissue, and body fluids to aid healthcare providers in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of patients. Working in specialized laboratories, you will utilize both manual techniques and automated testing using sophisticated instrumentation. Your role includes instrument operation and maintenance, troubleshooting assays, evaluating tests for accuracy, interpreting results, and providing operational support to optimize testing. You will use multiple computer systems to retrieve and report information and may work with minimal supervision while assisting with specimen collection. Strict adherence to safety protocols is required to ensure safe handling of infectious specimens, chemicals, and other hazards.

Responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain laboratory instruments.
  • Troubleshoot assays and evaluate test accuracy.
  • Assist in interpreting test results.
  • Provide operational support to optimize testing.
  • Work with multiple computer systems for information retrieval and reporting.
  • Adhere to safety protocols when handling infectious specimens and chemicals.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry or a human biological science required.
  • Experience with instrumentation (GC, LC, HPLC, MS) preferred.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rochester, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $24.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Rochester,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 1, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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