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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Elgin, MN (NOW HIRING)

Mayo Clinic

HTM Healthcare Engineering Tech I

Rochester, MN · On-site

$32.39 - $43.73/hr

... or entry level imaging and x-ray. Qualifications Associate's degree in Biomedical Electronics ... lab or medical equipment/systems. Preferred Qualifications * AAMI ACI Certification: AAMI-CBAT ...

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Entry Level Lab information

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$12

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$49

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Elgin, MN is $23.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist lab technicians by automating routine tasks such as data analysis and sample processing. However, lab technicians are essential for overseeing experiments, maintaining equipment, and applying critical thinking, making complete replacement unlikely in the near future.

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 lowest salary for a lab tech?

The lowest salary for an entry-level lab technician typically starts around $30,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on location and employer. Salaries can increase with experience, certifications, and specialized skills such as proficiency with laboratory equipment or data analysis tools.

What jobs let you work in a lab?

Entry-level lab jobs include laboratory technician, research assistant, and lab aide. These roles typically require basic knowledge of lab equipment, safety procedures, and sometimes a relevant certification or degree in science or a related field. They involve tasks such as sample preparation, data recording, and assisting with experiments in scientific or medical laboratories.

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 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 qualification do I need to work in a lab?

Entry level lab positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field like biology, chemistry, or health sciences. Basic skills in laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important; certifications like OSHA safety training can be beneficial.

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 cities near Elgin, MN are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities near Elgin, MN with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Laboratory Technician (Entry-Level)

Laboratory Technician (Entry-Level)

Actalent

Rochester, MN

$23/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Clinical Laboratory Technician (Entry-Level)

Job Description

This Clinical Laboratory Technician role supports a high-volume Antibody Immunology Laboratory that performs specialized testing to detect and quantify human antibodies and autoantibodies associated with autoimmune inflammatory diseases. You will work in a fast-paced clinical environment, strictly follow analytical procedures, and contribute to accurate and timely test results that directly impact patient care. The position offers strong opportunities for career growth within a leading healthcare organization and serves as an excellent entry point for a long-term laboratory career.

Responsibilities

  • Perform a variety of immunology-based assays, including Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Electrochemiluminescence (ECL), Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA), Indirect Immunofluorescence (IFA), and Multiplex Flow Immunoassay, following established laboratory protocols.
  • Receive, label, and process clinical specimens accurately, ensuring proper handling, storage, and preparation for testing.
  • Strictly follow analytical procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all tests and instrumentation used in the Antibody Immunology Laboratory.
  • Set up, operate, and monitor laboratory instruments and equipment, ensuring they function correctly throughout the testing process.
  • Perform routine and advanced troubleshooting on laboratory instruments and assays to resolve technical issues and maintain continuous workflow.
  • Evaluate assay performance and quality control results, identifying trends or deviations and taking appropriate corrective actions when necessary.

Essential Skills

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry or a human biological science is required; acceptable degrees include Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Animal Science, Marine Biology, Neuroscience, or similar disciplines.
Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rochester, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Rochester,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

Social media

Facebook

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