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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lab Tech Aide - 2nd Shift Location: Altavista, VA Duration: 6 Months Shift: 3PM TO 11:30PM 100% Onsite Job Details: * Perform laboratory tasks similar to Lab Tech Aide on 2nd shift, supporting daily ...

Inova's Central Lab is looking for a dedicated Lab Technician Assistant 2 PSC (LTA 2 PSC) to join the team at Inova Primary Care - 711 E Main St, Purcellville VA 20132. The role will be a Part time ...

This is an entry-level position into the lab to train individuals on testing protocols and importance of accurate data collection as it pertains to quality. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

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Entry Level Lab information

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$13

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How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Virginia is $23.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $25.72 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 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 some 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 an entry level lab job?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:

Lab Tech Aide - 2nd Shift

Abbott

Altavista, VA • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Abbott rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 511 rated manufacturers


Job description

Title: Lab Tech Aide - 2nd Shift
Location: Altavista, VA
Duration: 6 Months
Shift: 3PM TO 11:30PM
100% Onsite
Job Details:
  • Perform laboratory tasks similar to Lab Tech Aide on 2nd shift, supporting daily operations
  • Assist in sample collection, preparation, and processing to ensure accurate testing
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of laboratory work areas
  • Follow safety protocols and standard operating procedures diligently
  • Document test results and laboratory activities accurately and timely

What's Needed?
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Willingness to work the 2nd shift schedule

Lab technician with micro lab experience or equivalent.
Some key tasks we would be doing:
• pH of micro samples
• Media preparation
• Pour plating
• Streak plating
• Gram staining
• Serial dilution and enumeration of micro suspensions
• Good aseptic technique
Consultants Eligible Benefits Upon Waiting Period:
  • Medical and Prescription Drug Plans
  • Dental Plan
  • Vision Plan
  • Health Savings Account (for High-Deductible Health Plans)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (Health, Limited Purpose, Dependent Care, Commuter Parking and Commuter Transit)
  • Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability (coverage varies by state)
  • Long Term Disability
  • Critical Illness, Hospital coverage, Accident Insurance
  • MetLife Legal, MetLife ID Fraud, and MetLife Pet Insurance
  • 401(k)

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritional and branded generic medicines.
Working together, Abbott and Talent Solutions partner to deliver top talent for contingent roles at Abbott, building better and healthier lives. Abbott believes all employees are essential to creating life-changing breakthroughs, performing key duties to create life-changing breakthroughs.
  • Published on 16 May 2026, 10:36 PM

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