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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Kearny, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$15.53/hr

Lab Assistant I - Clifton, NJ, Tuesday to Saturday, 1:00 AM to 9:30 AM Department: Auto Chem Tech ... Quest Diagnostics is now recruiting for technologist positions ranging from entry level to ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$15.53/hr

Lab Assistant I - Clifton, NJ, Sunday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM Department - Clinical ... Quest Diagnostics is now recruiting for technologist positions ranging from entry level to ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$15.53/hr

Lab Assistant I - Clifton, NJ, Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM Department - Clinical ... Quest Diagnostics is now recruiting for technologist positions ranging from entry level to ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$15.53/hr

Lab Assistant I - Clifton, NJ, Tuesday to Saturday, 3:00 AM to 11:30 AM Department - Clinical ... Quest Diagnostics is now recruiting for technologist positions ranging from entry level to ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Assistant I

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$15.53/hr

Lab Assistant I - Clifton, NJ, Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM Department - Clinical ... Quest Diagnostics is now recruiting for technologist positions ranging from entry level to ...

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Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Kearny, NJ salary details

$13

$25

$52

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Kearny, NJ is $25.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How to become an entry level lab tech with no experience?

To become an entry-level lab tech with no experience, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and complete relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or certifications such as OSHA or CLT can improve your chances; familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols is also beneficial.

What is the starting pay for an entry level lab tech?

The starting pay for an entry-level lab technician typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on the location, industry, and required certifications. Many entry-level positions also offer benefits such as training in laboratory equipment and safety protocols.
Entry Level Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Kearny, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,330 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Lab Assistant I

Clifton, NJ • On-site

Quest Diagnostics
See more jobs at Quest Diagnosticsexternal

$15.53/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Lab Assistant I - Clifton, NJ, Tuesday to Saturday, 1:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Department: Auto Chem Tech Operations Support
Are you intrigued by the science of the human body? Curious about state-of-the-art laboratory instrumentation? Looking to join a Fortune 500 company leading the world in providing diagnostic information services? Quest Diagnostics is now recruiting for technologist positions ranging from entry level to experienced, with a wide range of benefits and training!
Pay range: $17.20 - $24.08 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Responsibilities
Job Responsibilities:
  • Provides a wide variety of support for assigned lab department.
  • Picks up samples from accessioning and sorts samples into appropriate racks.
  • Answers phone and directs calls appropriately
  • Unpacks and stores reagents and supplies
  • Inventories and orders warehouse supply items
  • Sorts samples and distributes them to the appropriate setup hood. Manages specimen library within established time frames.
  • Performs waived tests under supervision
  • All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education:
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Required)

About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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