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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

Greater Valley Health Center

Medical Assistant

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

This is a great opportunity for entry-level candidates or those starting a career in healthcare - ... Perform phlebotomy, specimen collections, and CLIA-waived lab testing * Assist providers with exams ...

One Health

Medical Assistant (MA)- Hardin MT

Hardin, MT · On-site

$18.80 - $19.58/hr

This is a fantastic entry level position to help get your foot in the door if your career goals ... Lab Tests: Perform basic laboratory tests. * Patient Education: Provide patient education and ...

One Health

Medical Assistant (MA)- Hardin MT

Hardin, MT · On-site

$18.80 - $19.58/hr

This is a fantastic entry level position to help get your foot in the door if your career goals ... Lab Tests: Perform basic laboratory tests. * Patient Education: Provide patient education and ...

One Health

Medical Assistant I- Livingston

Livingston, MT · On-site

$21.10 - $21.88/hr

This is a fantastic entry level position to help get your foot in the door if your career goals ... Lab Tests: Perform basic laboratory tests. * Patient Education: Provide patient education and ...

All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Montana

Entry Level Lab information

See Montana salary details

$12

$22

$46

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Montana is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level lab?

An entry level lab job typically refers to a position in a laboratory setting that requires minimal prior experience or specialized education beyond a high school diploma or associate degree. Employees in these roles assist with basic laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, performing routine tests, maintaining equipment, and recording data under the supervision of more experienced staff. These positions are often a starting point for a career in science, healthcare, or research, providing valuable hands-on experience and exposure to laboratory protocols and safety procedures.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level lab technician?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and typically an associate degree or relevant certification in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry systems, and software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills are vital for ensuring accurate results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What are common challenges faced by entry level lab technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level lab technicians often face challenges such as adjusting to strict safety protocols, managing multiple tasks efficiently, and becoming familiar with laboratory equipment and procedures. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to actively participate in training sessions, ask questions when unsure, and maintain a well-organized workspace. Building strong communication with senior technicians and supervisors can also help in gaining confidence and improving technical skills over time.

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

AspectEntry Level LabLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degreeAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentEducational, research, or clinical labsMedical, industrial, or research labs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research facilitiesHospitals, biotech companies, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Lab vs Laboratory Technician

Entry Level Lab roles typically require basic education and involve assisting in lab tasks within educational or research settings. Laboratory Technicians often have similar credentials but may perform more specialized or technical duties in medical or industrial labs. Both roles serve as foundational positions in laboratory environments, with Laboratory Technicians generally having more hands-on responsibilities.

How to get started working in an entry level lab?

To start working in an entry level lab, obtain relevant education such as a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Gaining basic laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and certifications like OSHA safety training can improve your chances; some positions may also require background checks and on-the-job training.

Is it hard to get a job in an entry level lab?

Securing an entry level lab position can be competitive, but having relevant education such as a high school diploma or associate degree, along with basic laboratory skills and certifications like OSHA training, can improve chances. Entry level lab jobs often require attention to detail, familiarity with lab equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols, making some positions more accessible to new applicants than others.

What career paths start in an entry level lab?

Entry level lab positions often serve as stepping stones to careers in scientific research, quality control, laboratory management, or specialized fields such as microbiology, chemistry, or biomedical sciences. Gaining experience in lab techniques, data analysis, and certifications like OSHA or CLIA can help advance to technician, research associate, or laboratory supervisor roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Montana?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Montana are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Montana look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Montana are:

What cities in Montana are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs?

Cities in Montana with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:

Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,938 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Medical Assistant

Greater Valley Health Center

Kalispell, MT • On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Greater Valley Health Center is hiring a Medical Assistant to support our clinical team in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.  This is a great opportunity for entry-level candidates or those starting a career in healthcare - we will train the right person 


Key Responsibilities 

  • Room patients and record vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature)
  • Perform phlebotomy, specimen collections, and CLIA-waived lab testing
  • Assist providers with exams, minor procedures, EKGs, and screenings
  • Administer injections and immunizations per provider orders
  • Schedule referrals, diagnostic tests, and specialty appointments
  • Provide patient triage, phone support, and follow-up
  • Manage lab specimens, medical records, and pharmacy communications
  • Stock exam rooms and maintain clinical inventory
  • Maintain accurate documentation in EHR/EMR systems
  • Support quality assurance and patient care initiatives 
  • Cross-train to assist with front desk/administrative duties 


What We're Looking For 

  • No experience required - paid training provided 
  • Medical Assistant diploma or certificate preferred
  • CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) or willingness to obtain preferred 
  • Knowledge of HIPAA, infection control, and patient confidentiality 
  • Strong communication, multitasking, and organizational skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced clinical environment 
  • Valid Montana driver's license


Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan 
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Competitive pay (based on experience)
  • Potential for career growth and advancement within the organization


Work Environment 

  • Medical clinic setting with direct patient interaction 
  • Standing, walking, bending, and lifting (up to 25 lbs) required
  • Exposure to clinical and lab environments 
  • Occasional travel between clinic locations


About Us

Greater Valley Health Center is a mission-driven organization committed to providing accessible affordable healthcare for all, regardless of ability to pay.