2

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

Description At SPL, the work you do matters. Our teams provide trusted energy and environmental testing and measurement solutions that protect communities, support critical infrastructure, and ...

Job Type Full-time Description At SPL, the work you do matters. Our teams provide trusted energy and environmental testing and measurement solutions that protect communities, support critical ...

Laboratory Technician (2nd Shift)

Reading, PA

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

We're searching for a motivated entry-level Lab Analyst to support our second shift laboratory team in Reading, PA. In this role, you'll be actively engaged in daily laboratory operations, supporting ...

Laboratory Technician (2nd Shift)

Reading, PA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

We're searching for a motivated entry-level Lab Analyst to support our second shift Organics team in Reading, PA. In this role, you'll be actively engaged in daily laboratory operations, supporting ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Lab information

See Reading, PA salary details

$12

$23

$48

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Reading, PA is $23.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $24.95 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 Reading, PA?

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab jobs in Reading, PA?

For Entry Level Lab jobs in Reading, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,065 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Lab Technician (Entry-Level)

SPL

Reading, PA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Description

At SPL, the work you do matters. Our teams provide trusted energy and environmental testing and measurement solutions that protect communities, support critical infrastructure, and safeguard the environment. With a nationwide footprint and opportunities for growth across multiple locations and disciplines, SPL is a place where you can build a career while making a real-world impact.


We're searching for a motivated Laboratory Technician to support our Inorganics laboratory team in Reading, PA.


In this role, you'll be actively engaged in daily laboratory operations, supporting critical testing through sample preparation, analytical testing, and accurate documentation within the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). You'll work hands-on with laboratory instrumentation, contribute to quality and compliance initiatives, and help maintain a safe, efficient, and well-organized laboratory environment. This position offers the opportunity to strengthen technical expertise, collaborate with an experienced team, and directly contribute to reliable, high-quality results that support essential laboratory operations.



What You'll Do

  • Perform basic sample preparation and analytical testing in accordance with approved methods, SOPs, and quality standards
  • Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability
  • Perform data entry, documentation, and review of test results within the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and other designated systems
  • Support laboratory quality system by following Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), assisting with audits, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Adhere to safety and compliance protocols to maintain a safe and efficient laboratory environment
  • Assist with general laboratory housekeeping, inventory management, and cross-training as needed
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related scientific discipline
  • Previous hands-on professional laboratory experience strongly preferred; combination of relevant academic research, internships, or laboratory coursework may be considered in lieu of professional experience
  • Experience with BOD/CBOD, IC, FIA, Spectrophotometry, Wet Chemistry, SFA, titrations, or reagent preparation is a plus, but not required
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Experience with LIMS systems is a plus


What You'll Need to Succeed

  • Ability to perform effectively in a high-volume environmental laboratory, managing and analyzing large sample loads with accuracy and efficiency
  • Strong attention to detail and consistent execution within established methods, SOPs, and regulatory requirements
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize, multitask, and adapt to shifting workloads while maintaining data quality and turnaround times
  • Solid organizational and time-management skills to maintain steady workflow throughout the shift
  • Ability to quickly learn and apply new analytical methods, instrumentation, and LIMS systems
  • Sound troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to identify discrepancies, investigate out-of-specification results, and support corrective actions
  • Ability to work with urgency while maintaining precision in a deadline-driven environment
  • Clear and professional communication skills to collaborate effectively with laboratory team members and supervisors


What We Offer

  • Competitive hourly compensation
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employer-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Paid parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support


Work Schedule & Travel

  • Full-time, onsite position
  • Monday - Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM EST
  • Ability to work occasional overtime, weekends, or extended hours as needed to support laboratory operations and client deadlines 


Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

At SPL, we believe that a diverse team is a strong team. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. We make all employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities or for sincerely held religious beliefs, in accordance with applicable laws. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process, please let us know.



Visa Sponsorship

At this time, SPL is not able to offer visa sponsorship for this position. We sincerely appreciate your interest and understanding, and we encourage you to explore other opportunities with us that may be a fit in the future.