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

Entry Level Lab information

See Elgin, MN salary details

$12

$23

$49

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 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.

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 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 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:
Cardiac Cath Lab RN in Rochester, MN

Cardiac Cath Lab RN in Rochester, MN

Vivian Health

Rochester, MN โ€ข On-site

$2.5K - $3.4K/wk

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Registered Nurse - Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory - RN
Why Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation andย comprehensive benefit plansย โ€“ to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.
Benefits Highlights
  • Medical:ย Multiple plan options.
  • Dental:ย Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision:ย Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings:ย HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

The Cardiac Cath Lab Registered Nurse performs as an integral part of a multidisciplinary team providing care to patients during their journey through the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory.ย  Provides age specific care to patients ranging from infants to geriatric patients.ย  Registered Nurses interact with patients in the outpatient, inpatient hospital and emergency settings.ย  Per protocols, independently screen patients for various Cardiovascular, Cerebral vascular and Peripheral vascular diagnostic or interventional procedures.ย  Provide pre, intra and post procedure assessment and education for patients undergoing these procedures.ย  Collaborate with referring and procedural physicians to insure all protocol and educational needs of the patient are met prior to procedures.ย  Provides moderate sedation and administers medications per protocols, ACLS guidelines and physician orders during procedures.ย  Monitors for and respond to changes in, level of consciousness, ECG, respiratory, and hemodynamics.ย  Recover patients post procedure in the Cardiac Cath Lab post procedure room until discharge criteria are met.ย  Admits post interventional patients to appropriate receiving nursing unit.ย  Coordinates post procedure assessments, care and discharge of the patient from the interventional nursing units.ย  Offers self as a resource to nursing units and personnel, providing direction and guidance in solving patient and Cardiac Cath Lab issues.ย  Cardiac Cath Lab Registered Nurses function as a patient advocate and act as a liaison between referring physician, patient, family, and procedural physician to ensure a smooth transition throughout their entire Cardiac Cath Lab journey.

For New Graduate Nurses: Please apply through the Nurse Residency Program posting, which is specifically designed to support new graduate RNs. Visit the Nurse Residency webpageย for program details including current and upcoming application windows. Within the Nurse Residency application process, you may indicate work units and specialties of interest. If selected to move forward, you will meet with a Nursing Placement Coordinator who will help you explore Mayo Clinic opportunities that are best aligned with your current and future professional goals. Together, weโ€™ll identify a work area that provides an excellent foundation for your nursing career.ย 

The registered nurse (RN) is accountable for the coordination of nursing care, including direct patient care, patient/family education and transitions of care. The RN supports professional nursing practice across practice settings and across the continuum of care to meet the needs of the patient and family. The RN will function within the Mayo Clinic Nursing Professional Practice Model, which includes accountability for planning, implementing, evaluating and communicating all phases of nursing care for assigned patients. The ANA Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice provide a basis for the practice of the RN. The RN provides leadership through activities such as preceptor role, informal and formal leadership roles, and quality improvement efforts. The RN delegates patient care according to skill level, experience, patient acuity, fiscal accountability and availability of resources. The RN possesses excellent communication skills; is skillful in mentoring and teaching; and may participate on committees or projects. A subset of employees may be required to drive their personal vehicle as a part of the responsibility of their role.โ€ฏย 
This role is eligible for TN sponsorship. Successful sponsorship will require state licensure and completion of the VisaScreen or equivalent certification.ย 

Qualifications

Graduate of a nursing program, as recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). ย One year of RN experience required. ย 

All entry-level associate degree registered nurses with a RN start date of April 1, 2020, and after must provide documented evidence of program completion of the baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program within five years from the last day of the month of the RN start date.

Additional Qualifications:

1 year RN experience required.

Must be currently working as an RN in direct patient care. ย  PCU/ICU or ED experience preferred. ACLS & PALS will be required within one year of hire.ย 

Excellent communication skills (verbal and written). Experience working in a team environment. Computer skills required, prior experience with electronic medical record systems preferred. Ability to work flexible hours, which may include days, evenings, nights, holidays, and weekends and on-call. Ability to adapt to unpredictable situations within the work setting. Demonstrated leadership, effective communicator, and excellent critical thinking skills.

Internal applicants are required to attach their three most recent performance appraisals.

License and Certification (Must obtain prior to start date):

Current RN license by applicable state requirements. ย 

BLS (Basic Life Support) must be valid for 90 days post start date; acceptable certifications include: American Heart Association (AHA)/ Heartcodeยฎ BLS, Military Training Network, Red Cross (CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and Health Care Providers).

Additional state licensure(s) and/or specialty certification/training as required by the work area.

Exemption Status
Nonexempt
Compensation Detail
The pay for this role is $43.84 - $66.84. Mayo Clinic has an innovative nursing compensation model that rewards experience, education, and dedication to the organization. Combined with our competitive tuition reimbursement program, the compensation approach empowers nurses to grow professionally and maximize their earning potential.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
64-80
Schedule Details
Sunday-Saturday, Variable Days/Evenings/Nights, Variable 8, 10, and 12 hour shifts, A night shift/weekend/holiday is worked approximately every 6 weeks
Weekend Schedule
One of 12
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives.ย Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is.ย 
Equal Opportunity
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about theย "EOE is the Law".ย  Mayo Clinic participates inย E-Verifyย and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
Recruiter
Karlie VanKruiningen Nursonality Flexible Team Player