PERI-OP TECH I
Knoxville, TN · On-site
Overview Peri-op Technician Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Parkwest Overview ... Minimum Experience: Entry level. Licensure Requirement: None
PERI-OP TECH I
Knoxville, TN · On-site
Overview Peri-op Technician Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Parkwest Overview ... Minimum Experience: Entry level. Licensure Requirement: None
PERI-OP TECH I
Knoxville, TN · On-site
Overview Peri-op Technician Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Parkwest Overview ... Minimum Experience: Entry level. Licensure Requirement: None
PERI-OP TECH I
Knoxville, TN · On-site
Overview Peri-op Technician Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Parkwest Overview ... Minimum Experience: Entry level. Licensure Requirement: None
Entry Level Lab Technician information
See Oak Ridge, TN salary details
$12.64 - $15.88
22% of jobs
$16.09 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.88 - $19.12
40% of jobs
$21.98 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$19.12 - $22.35
14% of jobs
$22.35 - $25.59
5% of jobs
$25.59 - $28.83
3% of jobs
$28.83 - $32.07
3% of jobs
$32.07 - $35.31
2% of jobs
$35.31 - $38.55
2% of jobs
$38.55 - $41.78
2% of jobs
$41.78 - $45.02
3% of jobs
$45.02 - $48.26
2% of jobs
$12
$23
$48
How much do entry level lab technician jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab technician in Oak Ridge, TN is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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 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 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 is the difference between Entry Level Lab Technician vs Laboratory Assistant?
| Aspect | Entry Level Lab Technician | Laboratory Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or associate's degree; some roles may require certification | High school diploma; on-the-job training often provided |
| Work Environment | Laboratories in healthcare, research, or manufacturing settings | Support roles in labs, hospitals, or research facilities |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Used in healthcare, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and research industries | Common in hospitals, clinics, and research institutions |
| Common Search & Comparison Intent | Yes | Yes |
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.
How to become an entry level lab technician with no experience?
To become an entry-level lab technician with no experience, candidates should obtain a relevant associate degree or certification in laboratory sciences or a related field. Gaining basic skills in laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and using common lab equipment can improve employability; some employers also value strong attention to detail and the ability to follow instructions.
What is the starting pay for an entry level lab technician?
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.
More about Entry Level Lab Technician jobs
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?
For Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Entry Level Lab Technician jobs?
Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Entry Level Lab Technician job openings:
Job description
Overview
Peri-op Technician
Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift
Parkwest Overview:
Parkwest Medical Center, Covenant Health's flagship facility in West Knoxville, combines world-class cardiac expertise with the warmth of home in serving a vibrant East Tennessee community. Since 1973, Parkwest has grown into the region's largest hospital in the area, offering advanced services like an all-digital catheterization lab, comprehensive breast health, emergency, and critical care. It's consistently ranked among Tennessee's top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and earns national recognition as a Top 100 Heart Hospital, as well as an "A" safety grade from Leapfrog. As part of Covenant Health, the region's largest employer, Parkwest Medical Center, marries cutting-edge technology with compassionate, community-centered care, earning accolades for cardiology, stroke, surgical excellence, and patient safety.
To learn more about Parkwest Medical Center and our units, visit Covenant Health Parkwest Medical Center Opportunities.
Position Summary:
Provide supportive para-nursing & housekeeping functions in the Operating Room, PACU, & PHA.
Responsibilities
Qualifications
Minimum Education:
None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skill and ability needed to perform the essential tasks of the job, typically such as would be equivalent to a high school diploma or GED. Preference may be given to individuals possessing a HS diploma or GED.
Minimum Experience:
Entry level.
Licensure Requirement:
None
Peri-op Technician
Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift
Parkwest Overview:
Parkwest Medical Center, Covenant Health's flagship facility in West Knoxville, combines world-class cardiac expertise with the warmth of home in serving a vibrant East Tennessee community. Since 1973, Parkwest has grown into the region's largest hospital in the area, offering advanced services like an all-digital catheterization lab, comprehensive breast health, emergency, and critical care. It's consistently ranked among Tennessee's top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and earns national recognition as a Top 100 Heart Hospital, as well as an "A" safety grade from Leapfrog. As part of Covenant Health, the region's largest employer, Parkwest Medical Center, marries cutting-edge technology with compassionate, community-centered care, earning accolades for cardiology, stroke, surgical excellence, and patient safety.
To learn more about Parkwest Medical Center and our units, visit Covenant Health Parkwest Medical Center Opportunities.
Position Summary:
Provide supportive para-nursing & housekeeping functions in the Operating Room, PACU, & PHA.
Responsibilities
- Demonstrates knowledge of sterile field.
- Illustrates proper technique for transporting and positioning patients safely.
- Displays understanding of proper body mechanics.
- Demonstrates special positions and/or bed positions such as Morgan Pelvic, Andrews Frame, etc.
- Recognize the area of surgical prep (clean or sterile).
- Responsible for maintaining environmental cleanliness standards of the operating rooms and ancillary areas.
- Demonstrates ability to assist RN in the skin preparation of the patient by safely holding extremities and preventing contamination of the prepped site.
- Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
- Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.
Qualifications
Minimum Education:
None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skill and ability needed to perform the essential tasks of the job, typically such as would be equivalent to a high school diploma or GED. Preference may be given to individuals possessing a HS diploma or GED.
Minimum Experience:
Entry level.
Licensure Requirement:
None