2

Entry Level Lab Technician Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Lab Technician information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$10

$19

$41

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab technician in Decatur, AL is $19.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $21.35 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 cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Entry Level Lab Technician jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Entry Level Lab Technician job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Technician job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,131 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Dental Lab Processor Technician

Affordable Dentures & Implants

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Dental Laboratory Processor Technician (Full-Time) | Entry-Level Dental Lab Technician
Start Your Career in a Growing Dental Laboratory
Are you detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and enjoy working with your hands? We are seeking a Dental Laboratory Processor Technician to join our growing dental laboratory team. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in a career as a Dental Lab Technician, Dental Laboratory Processor, Plaster Bench Technician, or Denture Technician.
In this hands-on role, you will help fabricate high-quality removable dental prosthetics while working alongside experienced dental laboratory professionals in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Job Summary
The Dental Laboratory Processor Technician assists in the fabrication and processing of full and partial dentures by preparing models, articulating cases, polishing dentures, and supporting daily laboratory operations. This position is ideal for candidates with strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and an interest in dental laboratory technology.
Key Responsibilities
  • Pour dental impressions into plaster models
  • Trim and prepare plaster models for fabrication
  • Articulate denture cases accurately
  • Polish completed dentures and removable prosthetics
  • Assist with denture processing and general laboratory production
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and laboratory protocols
  • Cross-train in multiple areas of the dental laboratory
  • Support team members to ensure quality workmanship and timely case completion
  • Perform additional laboratory duties as assigned

Qualifications
Required
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Comfortable working with your hands and performing detailed, repetitive tasks
  • Strong hand-eye coordination
  • Mechanical aptitude and/or artistic ability
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment
  • Excellent organizational and time-management skills
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced production environment while maintaining exceptional attention to detail

Preferred
  • 0-6 months of experience trimming and pouring denture models
  • Plaster bench experience
  • Experience in a dental laboratory or dental manufacturing environment
  • Knowledge of OSHA safety procedures
  • Interest in learning removable prosthetic fabrication and denture processing

Why Join Our Team?
  • Full-time, stable employment with a growing dental laboratory
  • Monday-Friday schedule
  • Paid, hands-on training and cross-training opportunities
  • Career advancement into Dental Laboratory Technician and specialized laboratory roles
  • Supportive team environment focused on quality and professional development
  • Opportunity to make a meaningful impact by helping create life-changing dental prosthetics for patients

If you're looking to begin or grow your career as a Dental Laboratory Processor, Dental Lab Technician, Entry-Level Dental Technician, or Plaster Bench Technician, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and become part of a team dedicated to craftsmanship, innovation, and improving patients' smiles through high-quality dental laboratory work.
Benefits
We care about our employees and understand the hard work that goes into providing the best-in-class patient care. You will be provided the training needed to provide you with the support you need to do your job well. Additional benefits include, group medical and dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, flexible spending (health and dependent care), 401(k), 9 paid holidays off, 10 days of vacation, and 5 additional PTO days. We also offer ancillary benefits to include hospital indemnity, accident, and critical illness insurance options.
About Affordable Care
Founded in 1975, today Affordable Care, LLC is America's largest dental support organization (DSO) focused on tooth replacement services, serving more than 360 dental practices across the United States. Supported practices primarily concentrate on extractions, dentures, implants, and fixed arches, with some practices housing an on-site laboratory to enable same-day dental services. Affordable Care is the DSO for several top dental brands including, but not limited to, Affordable Dentures & Implants, DDS Dentures + Implant Solutions, and Advanced Dental Implant Centers. From the Affordable Care Support Center, located in North Carolina's Research Triangle Park, along with field-based teams, Affordable Care provides business expertise and support services to dental practices, taking care of non-clinical duties so dentists can focus on treating patients (visit affordablecare.com).