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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

CompTIA A+ Tutor

Columbia, SC · Remote

$25 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using virtual lab environments, hardware identification practice, and practice examinations to support aspiring IT professionals preparing for entry-level CompTIA A+ certification.

Steris Corporation

Technician- Columbia, SC

Columbia, SC · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

This is an entry level job - we will train you! * In this position, you will perform surgical ... lab including policies and procedures relative to the position. The Experience, Skills, and ...

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All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Columbia, SC

Entry Level Lab information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$19

$41

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Columbia, SC is $19.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $21.20 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.

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

Securing an entry level lab position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a high school diploma or an associate degree, along with basic laboratory skills. Candidates with certifications, familiarity with lab equipment, and strong attention to detail tend to have better chances of employment.

What career paths start in an entry level lab?

Starting in an entry-level lab position can lead to careers such as laboratory technician, research associate, quality control analyst, or laboratory supervisor. These roles often serve as stepping stones to specialized fields like biomedical research, clinical laboratory science, or quality assurance, and may require certifications or further education in science or technology.

How do I start working in an entry level lab?

To start working in an entry level lab, obtain relevant education such as a high school diploma or an associate degree in a science-related field. Gaining basic laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training can improve your chances; applying for internships or entry-level positions through job boards is also common.

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 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 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 Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab jobs in Columbia, SC? For Entry Level Lab jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Columbia, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,868 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Histology Technician / Histotechnologist (HT/HTL)

Lighthouse Lab Services

Columbia, SC

$33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Lighthouse Lab Services has partnered with the premier health system in South Carolina. We are looking for talented Histotechnicians or Histotechnologists to be a part of their growing team on the Columbia campus. If you are looking for a histology position where you really have a chance to build a career and have the opportunity to truly grow, then this is the job for you!

About Columbia:

Columbia offers an excellent quality of life with a low cost of living, affordable housing, and short commutes, making it easy to enjoy more of your time outside of work. The area provides access to outdoor recreation at Lake Murray and Congaree National Park, a growing food and arts scene, and the energy of the University of South Carolina. Its central location also puts both the mountains and the South Carolina coast within a few hours, making weekend getaways easy while still offering the career opportunities of a thriving healthcare community.

About the Client:

A nationally recognized academic healthcare system where you will have the opportunity to work with advanced laboratory technologies, support a diverse and complex patient population, and collaborate with highly skilled clinical teams. Whether you are looking to deepen your technical expertise or build a long-term career, you will find an environment that values professional growth, continuous learning, and making a meaningful impact on patient care every day.

About the Position:

Under direct supervision, the histotech performs routine and complex histologic procedures in accordance with established procedures. Performs processing, embedding, microtomy, routine and special stains, immunohistochemistry, and frozen sectioning on human and animal tissue to produce microscopic slides submitted for pathologists' review. Performs quality control on completed slides. Identifies problems that may affect diagnosis and results. Records observations from tests. Documents maintenance of instruments and equipment used in the lab. Complies with established laboratory policies for universal precautions and safety.

Candidate Profile:

  • B.S. in Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, or related field
  • Completion of accredited Histology program
  • HT or HTL (ASCP) required
  • 1+ years of experience as a Histotechnologist preferred

Shift, Salary, and Benefits:

  • 1st shift opportunity
  • Hourly Rate: up to $33/hr Depending on Experience
  • Insurance Benefits (Health, Vision, Dental)
  • Additional Benefits: PTO/Vacation/401K

About Us:

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 22 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry-level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. In addition, Lighthouse Lab Services will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Lighthouse Lab Services | 800-838-0602 | lighthouselabservices.com

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