2

Entry Level Lab Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Technician II

Monroeville, PA ยท On-site

$7.25 - $23/hr

... entry-level position. - Requires a high school education or equivalent. - Prior experience is desired with examples of safe practices, chemical handling, and record keeping/reporting. - Some ...

New

This entry-level position involves manufacturing electro-mechanical assemblies used in the wireless market. The products are small, handheld, and assembled at a bench in a fast-paced lab environment ...

CompTIA A+ Tutor

Pittsburgh, PA ยท 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.

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$19.20 - $30.08/hr

An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step ... UPMC Shadyside is hiring a flex full-time Specimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab ...

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $17.75/hr

An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step ... Testing Lab! This role will work daylight shifts, with rotating weekend and holiday ...

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$19.20 - $30.08/hr

An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step ... Testing Lab! This role will work daylight shifts, with rotating weekend and holiday ...

Specimen Processor

Pittsburgh, PA

$16 - $18.50/hr

An entry-level role of a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories may be the perfect next step ... UPMC Shadyside is hiring a flex full-time Specimen Processor to support the Automated Testing Lab ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Lab information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$12

$23

$49

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Pittsburgh, PA is $23.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.19 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 Pittsburgh, PA?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs?

Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 80% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,589 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Surgical Technologist - CVOR

UPMC Senior Communities

Pittsburgh, PA โ€ข On-site

$24.03 - $32.01/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Join the Heart of Pediatric Care - Now Hiring a Full-Time CVOR Certified Surgical Technologist at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh!
We are currently recruiting a pipeline of professionals for future opportunities. By applying, you'll be considered for roles that match your skills and experience. As our needs evolve, we'll reach out to qualified candidates to fill specific vacancies.
Are you ready to grow your surgical tech career in one of the nation's top pediatric heart programs? Whether you're a seasoned CST or just starting out, the CVOR team at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Heart Institute wants you! We're expanding - and looking for passionate, driven Certified Surgical Technologists who thrive in high-acuity settings and are eager to make a difference in pediatric cardiac care.
Schedule: Full-time role with four 10-hour shifts per week, plus shared call responsibilities among CVOR CSTs.
Why You'll Love It Here:
  • Sign-on bonus up to $25,000 for a 3-year commitment
  • Career ladder advancement to support your growth
  • Cross-training in our cutting-edge Cath Lab
  • Collaborative, innovative team culture

About the UPMC Heart Institute at CHP:
Nationally recognized for excellence in pediatric cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery, our Heart Institute delivers advanced surgical and interventional care for infants, children, and young adults with heart disease. We're proud of our outcomes - and even prouder of the people who make them possible.
๏ธ Your Impact:
As a CVOR CST, you'll be at the heart of life-saving pediatric cardiac surgeries. Once proficient in CVOR procedures, you'll have the opportunity to broaden your skills through Cath Lab training - deepening your expertise in cardiovascular care.
โš•๏ธ Who We're Looking For:
We welcome all experience levels! Whether you're a seasoned CST with pediatric cardiac experience, an OR veteran ready for a new challenge, or a recent graduate with a hunger to learn - we want to meet you. If you bring curiosity, compassion, and a commitment to excellence, you'll thrive here.
Responsibilities
  • Perform duties in accordance with system-wide competencies and behavioral standards.
  • Carry out additional tasks as assigned by supervisory staff.
  • Assist in transferring patients to the recovery room post-surgery.
  • Clean and restock the operating room to maintain readiness and hygiene.
  • Support specimen handling for laboratory analysis, including preparation, care, disposal, and dressing application.
  • Aid surgical team members in donning sterile gowns and gloves.
  • Prepare the operating room prior to procedures by:
    • Setting up surgical instruments, equipment, sterile drapes, and solutions.
    • Assembling sterile and non-sterile equipment.
    • Adjusting and checking equipment for proper functionality.
  • During surgery:
    • Pass instruments and sterile supplies efficiently to surgeons and assistants.
    • Hold retractors or instruments, cut sutures, sponge or suction the operative site under supervision.
    • Assist in counting sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments.
  • Ensure all medications are correctly labeled and handed to the surgeon per established protocols.
  • Maintain a clean and safe environment by adhering to aseptic techniques and remaining alert to safety and explosive hazards.
  • Prepare patients for surgery by washing, shaving, and ensuring aseptic incision sites.
  • May transport patients to the operating room, assist with positioning on the operating table, and cover them with sterile surgical drapes.

Qualifications:
  • Open to all levels of experience. Peds cardiac experience is a plus.
  • Completion of a formal surgical technician program offered by a community or junior college, vocational school, university, hospital or the military.
  • 0-2 years of current Operating Room experience for entry level.
  • Access to medications is limited to the distribution of the medication to the nurse.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire. Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) or Technologist Surgery Certified (TSC) required.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) OR Tech in Surgery-Certified (TSC)
  • Act 31, 33, 34, 73 clearances with renewal
    UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran