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Entry Level Lab Technician Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Provide entry-level support to manufacturing and quality control departments. * Follow Standard ... Experience with documentation and basic lab preparation. * Knowledge of GMP, Quality Control (QC), ...

Entry Level Lab Technician information

See Nebraska salary details

$12

$22

$48

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

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab technician in Nebraska is $22.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of basic laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data entry systems such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in supporting scientific investigations and maintaining lab accuracy. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring precise results, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab operations.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

Entry-level lab technicians typically earn starting salaries around $30,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on location and industry. Salaries can vary based on certifications, education level, and the complexity of laboratory work involved.

What does a typical day look like for an Entry Level Lab Technician, and how do they interact with other team members?

As an Entry Level Lab Technician, your daily tasks often include preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting routine tests or experiments, recording data accurately, and following strict safety protocols. You’ll regularly collaborate with senior technicians, scientists, and lab managers to support ongoing research or quality control projects. Communication is key, as you may need to report findings, troubleshoot equipment issues, or help ensure compliance with lab standards. This role offers valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, making it a strong foundation for career growth in laboratory sciences.

What Does an Entry-Level Lab Technician Do?

As an entry-level lab technician, you help senior technicians and technologists to test and analyze medical samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue. Typically, a doctor or other healthcare professional takes a medical specimen and sends it to a lab for analysis. When labs complete their tests, they send their reports to the pathology lab, which aids in a doctor’s diagnosis of a patient. In this job, you use specialized equipment, such as cell counters, centrifuges, and powerful microscopes, and log your analysis for technologists.

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

AspectEntry Level Lab TechnicianLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentLaboratories in healthcare, research, or manufacturing settingsSupport roles in labs, hospitals, or research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and research industriesCommon in hospitals, clinics, and research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Lab Technician and a Laboratory Assistant lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Entry Level Lab Technicians typically perform more technical tasks and may require specific certifications or degrees, while Laboratory Assistants focus on supporting roles and routine tasks. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings across healthcare, research, and industry sectors.

Can you get a lab tech job without experience?

Entry level lab technician positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a relevant degree or certification in a science or laboratory field. Some employers may provide on-the-job training for new hires, and having basic skills in lab equipment and safety procedures can improve chances of employment.

What is the starting pay for a lab tech?

The starting pay for an entry-level lab technician typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on location, industry, and required certifications. Salaries may increase with experience, specialized skills, or additional training in laboratory procedures and equipment.

How can I start working in a lab?

To start working as an entry-level lab technician, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and consider earning relevant certifications such as OSHA or laboratory safety training. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions, along with developing skills in laboratory techniques and familiarity with lab equipment, can improve job prospects.

What does an Entry Level Lab Technician do?

An Entry Level Lab Technician assists in laboratory operations by preparing samples, conducting basic tests, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often record and analyze data under the supervision of senior staff. Their responsibilities may also include cleaning workspaces, labeling samples, and adhering to safety protocols. This role provides foundational experience in lab work and is a common starting point for a scientific career.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Technician jobs in Nebraska? The most popular types of Lab Technician jobs in Nebraska are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Nebraska? For Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Nebraska are:
What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Entry Level Lab Technician jobs? Cities in Nebraska with the most Entry Level Lab Technician job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in NE? For Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Technician job openings in Nebraska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,720 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Laboratory Technician - Fermentation 2nd shift Monday - Friday 2:00pm - 10:30pm

Abaxis

Lincoln, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Zoetis is the world's largest Manufacturer and Supplier of Animal Pharmaceuticals.

At Zoetis in Lincoln, NE, we manufacture high quality medicines for dogs, cats, and livestock. Our plant has been recognized as one of the Nebraska's Safest Companies, with a long-standing presence in the Lincoln community. We are a clean, modern site that continues to innovate and grow.

Benefits Include:

$500 Sign on Bonus

4 weeks accrued paid vacation and 13 paid holidays.

401(k) match with company profit sharing.

Tuition reimbursement and Student Loan repayment program.

Great Health, personal, and family benefits starting day 1.

Position Summary

Candidate will perform all tasks in regard to the Fermentation of active biological ingredients produced in Lincoln Nebraska. Colleague will learn and understand basic microbiological techniques associated with the Fermentation process. Colleague will comply with standard operating procedures and all regulatory documents. Demonstrate good communication skills using verbal, non-verbal and written skills. Utilize mechanical skills to maintain equipment and identify mechanical problems. Maintain a safe work environment as well as demonstrate reliability in attendance.

Hours: 3rd Shift, Sunday - Thursday 10:00pm - 6:30am. Overtime, weekends, and holidays may be required.

Position Responsibilities

  • Demonstrate safe work habits and maintain a safe work environment. Understand and comply with safety SOPs and procedures (Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) guidelines, Near Miss, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), biohazard training, Monthly Safety training, etc.)
  • Demonstrate reliability in attendance and punctuality.
  • Learn and understand basic microbiological techniques to prepare and maintain cultures, including inoculating, inactivating, harvesting and dispensing product as applicable to bacterial antigen production.
  • Learn and comply with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and associated documentation necessary to perform job functions.
  • Train in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), then demonstrate understanding and compliance.
  • Demonstrate good interpersonal and communication skills within and outside the department using verbal, written, and non-verbal skills.
  • Demonstrate the ability to perform mathematical calculations and metric conversions.
  • Learn and assist in the completion of documentation including process worksheets and log sheets.
  • Learn to operate, clean, and perform minor maintenance on equipment such as fermentors, seed isolators, centrifuges, filtration units.
  • Assist with reading and reporting test results using scientific instruments.
  • Use mechanical skills to identify mechanical problems and maintain equipment.
  • Clean areas, as applicable, according to specific SOPs
  • Obtain license and operate mobile powered material handling equipment (i.e., forklift, tank tugs, etc.)
  • Perform supplemental duties as assigned by supervision.

Education and Experience

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Basic mechanical skills.
  • Knowledge of Personal Computers using window-based applications.

Technical Skills and Competencies Required

  • Learn and understand basic microbiological techniques to prepare and maintain cultures, including inoculating, inactivating, harvesting and dispensing product as applicable to bacterial antigen production.
  • Learn to operate, clean, and perform minor maintenance on equipment such as fermentors, seed isolators, centrifuges, filtration units.
  • Use mechanical skills to identify mechanical problems and maintain equipment.
  • Assist with reading and reporting test results using scientific instruments.
  • Demonstrate reliability in attendance and punctuality.
  • Learn and comply with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and associated documentation necessary to perform job functions.
  • Learn and assist in the completion of documentation including process worksheets, timecards, and log sheets.
  • Train in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), then demonstrate understanding and compliance.
  • Clean areas, as applicable, according to specific SOPs
  • Demonstrate safe work habits and maintain a safe work environment. Understand and comply with safety SOPs and procedures (Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) guidelines, Near Miss, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), biohazard training, Monthly Safety training, etc.)
  • Demonstrate the ability to perform mathematical calculations and metric conversions.
  • Demonstrate good interpersonal and communication skills within and outside the department using verbal, written, and non-verbal skills.
  • Obtain license and operate mobile powered material handling equipment (i.e., forklift, tank tugs, etc.)
  • Perform supplemental duties as assigned by supervision.

Physical Position Requirements

Exposure to chemicals, fumes, odors, noise, live steam, temperature fluctuations, biohazards, continuous standing and lifting to a maximum of 50 lbs. Weekend and holiday work may be required.

Full timeRegularColleague

Any unsolicited resumes sent to Zoetis from a third party, such as an Agency recruiter, including unsolicited resumes sent to a Zoetis mailing address, fax machine or email address, directly to Zoetis employees, or to Zoetis resume database will be considered Zoetis property. Zoetis will NOT pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume.

Zoetis will consider any candidate for whom an Agency has submitted an unsolicited resume to have been referred by the Agency free of any charges or fees. This includes any Agency that is an approved/engaged vendor but does not have the appropriate approvals to be engaged on a search.

Notice: Zoetis Recruiters will contact candidates via email from an address ending in @zoetis.com and may also initially connect with candidates through LinkedIn, including LinkedIn InMail. Zoetis does not use Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, or other web-based/generic email domains to communicate about job opportunities, interviews, or offers of employment. If you receive a recruitment-related email message claiming to be from Zoetis that does not come from @zoetis.com, please treat it as suspicious. For your security, do not reply, click links, open attachments, share personal or financial information, or send money in response to unexpected or questionable recruitment communications.

Zoetis is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status or any other protected classification. Disabled individuals are given an equal opportunity to use our online application system. We offer reasonable accommodations as an alternative if requested by an individual with a disability. Please contact Zoetis Colleague Services at zoetiscolleagueservices@zoetis.com to request an accommodation. Zoetis also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act. All applicants must possess or obtain authorization to work in the US for Zoetis. Zoetis retains sole and exclusive discretion to pursue sponsorship for the acquisition or maintenance of nonimmigrant status and employment eligibility, considering factors such as availability of qualified US workers. Individuals requiring sponsorship must disclose this fact. Please note that Zoetis seeks information related to job applications from candidates for jobs in the U.S. solely via the following: (1) our company website at www.Zoetis.com/careers site, or (2) via email to/from addresses using only the Zoetis domain of "@zoetis.com". In addition, Zoetis does not use Google Hangout for any recruitment related activities. Any solicitation or request for information related to job applications with Zoetis via any other means and/or utilizing email addresses with any other domain should be disregarded. In addition, Zoetis will never ask candidates to make any type of personal financial investment related to gaining employment with Zoetis.

Abaxis logo

About Abaxis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Union City, CA, US

Year founded

1995

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