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Entry Level Lab Technician Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Lab Technician information

See Rhode Island salary details

$12

$23

$49

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab technician in Rhode Island is $23.56, 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 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 minimum requirement for an entry level lab technician?

Entry level lab technicians typically require a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer or require an associate degree or relevant coursework in science or laboratory technology. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important qualifications.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Technician jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Lab Technician jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Rhode Island?

For Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Entry Level Lab Technician jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Entry Level Lab Technician job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in RI?

For Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Technician job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,014 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Jr. Laboratory Technician - Machine Operator - Pilot Lab

Teknor Apex

Pawtucket, RI

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Teknor Apex rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 84 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

When Alfred Fain founded a small Rhode Island tire store in 1924, at the time no one could have predicted how Teknor Apex would become an international custom compounder sought out by companies around the world. After a nearly hundred-year journey that’s carried us through acquisitions and expansion, we now have nine U.S. locations, as well as operations in Belgium, Singapore, Germany, and China.

Throughout this global expansion Teknor has remained a privately held company, and today Fain’s grandson sits at the helm, maintaining the family’s tradition of fostering deep employee and customer relationships. These relationships are what allow us—together—to deliver customized compound solutions and help our customer’s create better products.

“Manufacturing is a team sport and we work together to achieve our goals.”  ~Jon Fain

Join the team behind our custom compounds. 

Shift:  2nd Shift (2:30PM -11:00PM)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Essential Functions (Essential functions can be specific, critical and important duties, responsibilities and authorities which have significant impact on successful job performance.  An essential function may not, necessarily, represent a significant percent of time spent.  The essential functions include compliance with all policies, procedures, and rules as established.  Job requirements are not limited to the essential functions discussed below.  Similar or related duties may be required.)

  • Performs basic assigned tasks in prioritized, logical, and timely manner in agreement with company laboratory and safety procedures
  • Tests in accordance with specifications provided with assistance.
  • Once trained is able to perform all core function/testing required by this position
  • Enters test data and conditions into the lab system

Responsibilities Specific to Pilot Plant:

  • Will work with Corporate Pilot Plant Lab team members through all stages of the polymer blend sample production process to include- Compounding, Blending, Banbury mixing, Extrusion mixing, Milling, Pelletizing, Packaging, and Quality Control Testing.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

  • Teamwork and Communication skills with Supervisors and with colleagues
  • Prefer 1 or more years of relevant experience
  • S: High School or G.E.D.

Skills:

  • Capable of performing basic arithmetic
  • Able to read and write in English
  • Data entry skills

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
  • Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
  • Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone

Teknor Apex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any protected status under state or federal laws. Must be 18 years of age to work at Teknor Apex.


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