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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Medical Center Hospital

Histo Tech, Histo

Odessa, TX · On-site

The Histology Section Technologist is able to perform all of the repetitive tests in the anatomic pathology laboratory, analyze technical problems and make simple corrections using preset strategies.

Medical Center Hospital

Histo Tech, Histo

Odessa, TX · On-site

$21.33 - $34.56/hr

The Histology Section Technologist is able to perform all of the repetitive tests in the anatomic pathology laboratory, analyze technical problems and make simple corrections using preset strategies.

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Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Texas salary details

$12

$22

$47

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Texas is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $24.18 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 Texas? The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Lab Tech jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Lab Tech job openings:
Entry Level Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,629 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Production Lab Tech - Optical Inventory (NEW 3-DAY SHIFTS & differential pay!)

Production Lab Tech - Optical Inventory (NEW 3-DAY SHIFTS & differential pay!)

National Vision

Plano, TX • On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

National Vision rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Company Description

National Vision is one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States with over 1,100 stores. We operate four retail brands: America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, Eyeglass World, and Vista Opticals inside select Fred Meyer stores and on select military bases. We offer an innovative culture where training is a priority, hard work is praised, and career growth is a reality.

Our optical manufacturing facility is growing!  We're excited to offer new openings for both ENTRY level AND EXPERIENCED optical technicians.  The addition of a new shift creates more opportunities for career growth.  We currently have stockroom/inventory openings.

Schedules:  FT positions available on both our 2A and 2B shifts.  These shifts work 3 days/week with 4 days off.  Perfect for those wanting to restructure non-work hours or minimize commutes.  

  • Shift 2A:     Sundays through Tuesdays  (3:30 pm - 4:00 am)
  • Shift 2B:     Wednesdays through Fridays  (3:30 pm - 4:00 am)

Pay & extras:  Starts at $17.05 entry level (includes 10% shift differential).  PLUS extra bi-weekly bonus opportunities.  We also have a generous PTO plan and many other benefits.

Job Description

Our associates are responsible for performing a variety of duties, depending on their assigned department and lab needs.  Production Lab Techs help expedite job orders throughout the manufacturing process in a timely and efficient manner in order to serve our customers.

Responsibilities involve observing data on job orders, sorting and organizing job orders, RF scanning and other department specific tasks.

Inventory tech duties include:

  • Printing orders, placing tickets in job trays
  • De-boxing lenses from the manufacturers, placing correctly on tray for processing
  • Pre-inspecting lenses for visual imperfections, sending defects back to manufacturer
  • Picking frames and lenses by locating bin number on the Rx, scanning barcodes on trays and frames
  • Organizing job trays, sorting jobs and placing into production
  • Stocking duties, receiving, inventory periodically
  • Return lenses and frames to inventory for canceled orders
  • Research order failures, load new frames in DVI, process lens breakage
Qualifications
  • No specific education required
  • No specific experience required for entry level but prior order picking, inventory, warehouse or mass production experience is preferred
  • Prior related or optical experience is desirable
  • Must be able to read and write English

Additional Information

National Vision offers a competitive benefits package.  Some of the benefits include:

  • Generous Paid-Time-Off (PTO) policy
  • BONUS opportunities - including biweekly lab production bonus
  • 401k with company match
  • Health Insurance (one HSA option)
  • Dental Insurance
  • Flex Spending Account
  • Vision benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Short and Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Referral bonus program
  • Wellness Plan incentives
  • Other insurance options, employee assistance and much more

About National Vision Holdings, Inc.

National Vision Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: EYE) is one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States with over 1,100 stores in 38 states and Puerto Rico. With a mission of helping people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible, the company operates four retail brands: America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, Eyeglass World, and Vista Opticals inside select Fred Meyer stores and on select military bases, and e-commerce websites, offering a variety of products and services for customers’ eye care needs. For more information, please visit www.nationalvision.com.

We are an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

What National Vision employees say

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National Vision logo

About National Vision

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At National Vision we believe everyone deserves to see their best to live their best. We help people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible. National Vision is one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States with over 1,300 stores in 44 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We operate five retail brands: America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, Eyeglass World, Vision Centers inside select Walmart stores and Vista Optical inside Fred Meyer stores and on select military bases. We employ over 14,000 people including a network of over 2,000 optometrists. We offer an innovative culture where training is a priority, hard work is praised, and career growth is a reality.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, GA, US

Year founded

1990

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