ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Lab Jobs in Arden, NC (NOW HIRING)

All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Arden, NC

Entry Level Lab information

See Arden, NC salary details

$12

$22

$48

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Arden, NC is $22.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $24.71 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 Arden, NC?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Arden, NC are:

What cities near Arden, NC are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs?

Cities near Arden, NC with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:

Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Arden, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,662 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Production Operator - $20.50

Magnera Corporation

Candler, NC

$25.25/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Magnera rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview

Join our Team at Magnera!

New Starting Rate of $20.50 with a potential to earn up to $25.25 with a pay for skill program.

Apply Now!

  • Hiring entry level production operators
  • 4 Days On / 4 Days Off Schedule
  • Annual performance bonuses
  • Benefits include comprehensive package with 401k employer contribution & paid time off
  • Background & drug screening required
  • GED or equivalent require

Under direct supervision, responsible for the daily operations of a non-woven production line ensuring a quality product, maintaining a safe environment, and achieving desired key performance measurements. Processes include opening, carding, entangling, drying, calendaring, winding, slitting and packaging equipment.

Responsibilities
  • Performs all tasks in a safe manner, complies with all safety rules. Identifies and reports unsafe operations to the Team Lead immediately.
  • Executes the change over process; set-up the production equipment and supplies before executing job orders; ensures product receipe compliance.
  • Inspects equipment to identify any replacements, malfucntions, and repairs; recommends improvements.
  • Brings product samples to the lab per defined inspection plan. Report any quality issue with incoming raw material or finished good materials to the Team Lead and to the Quality team.
  • Completes all process and quality records as requested. Reports any changes for process parameters, any issues with equipment as needed, to the Team Land and to Process Engineers.
  • Ensures all process parameters are set as per the recipe or within the acceptable range defind by process to ensure a quality product.
  • Performs preventative maintenance tasks per defined schedule.
  • Performs routine or minor maintenance of equipment. Assists to remove jams, to replace belts, and other routine maintenance. Particpates in card repair such as rewiring and card set-ups.
  • Troubleshoots process and equipment issues using analytical trouble shooting and other tools.
  • Operates a forklift to move various items in the manufacturing area. Complies with FIFO system for raw materials.
  • Maintains housekeeping expectations. Complete housekeeping audits and reports findings.
  • Contributes to waste management programs.
  • Uses operatoring systems for O&B, carding, entangling, winder, hammermill and slitter operations.
  • Ensures full traceability by scanning raw material and finished goods.
  • Attends Tier One meeting and plant wide meetings; Attends all scheduled training.
  • Complies with hygiene policy and non-conforming materials procedures.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED, required.
  • Good Computer Skills.
  • Good Mechanical Skills.
  • Two (2) years manufacturing experience, preferred
  • Six (6) months forktruck experience, preferred
CompetenciesEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Magnera employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply