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

Varsity Tutors

CompTIA A+ Tutor

Reading, PA · 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.

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Entry Level Lab information

See Reading, PA salary details

$12

$23

$48

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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.

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 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:

Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 11% 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.

Technician I - Met Lab

Carpenter Technology Corporation

Reading, PA • On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Carpenter Technology rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Carpenter Technology Corporation is a leading producer and distributor of premium specialty alloys, including titanium alloys, nickel and cobalt based superalloys, stainless steels, alloy steels and tool steels. Carpenter Technology's high-performance materials and advanced process solutions are an integral part of critical applications used within the aerospace, transportation, medical and energy markets, among other markets. Building on its history of innovation, Carpenter Technology's wrought and powder technology capabilities support a range of next-generation products and manufacturing techniques, including novel magnetic materials and additive manufacturing.
Position Title: Technician I - Met Lab
Job Summary
The Technician I - Met Lab prepares samples for analysis and examination and performs a limited range of basic metallurgical laboratory services under the direct supervision of the Group Leader. This position conducts mechanical, magnetic, and metallographic testing using standard laboratory equipment and established procedures while accurately collecting and recording test data. The Technician I supports quality, production, and laboratory operations by performing testing activities in a safe, efficient, and production-oriented environment. This position may be assigned to Mechanical Testing, Sample Preparation, Metallographic Testing, Magnetic Testing, or Heat Treating areas based on business needs.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Prepare samples for metallurgical analysis and examination.
  • Perform basic metallurgical laboratory services under direct supervision.
  • Conduct mechanical and magnetic testing using standard equipment, including hardness, tensile, tension, and resistivity testing.
  • Perform metallographic testing using polishing equipment, etchants, and standard metallographic equipment.
  • Collect, document, and maintain accurate test data and results.
  • Operate basic metallurgical and laboratory equipment in accordance with standard procedures.
  • Support Mechanical Testing, Preparation, Metallographic Testing, Magnetic Testing, and Heat Treating operations as assigned.
  • Maintain compliance with laboratory procedures, safety standards, and quality requirements.
  • Assist in achieving departmental production and testing objectives.
  • Perform all other duties and special projects as assigned.

Additional Requirements
  • High School Diploma required.
  • Entry-level position; no prior related experience required.
  • Elementary knowledge of metallurgical principles, standards, methods, and practices preferred.
  • Elementary knowledge of metallurgical and laboratory equipment.
  • Ability to develop technical knowledge and skills within the assigned laboratory area.
  • Ability to apply basic technical skills and procedures to complete assigned work.
  • Ability to solve routine problems using standard procedures and established processes.
  • Ability to respond to standard requests from internal and external customers.
  • Ability to manage time and meet deadlines with guidance from supervisors and team members.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team to achieve departmental goals.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize tasks appropriately.
  • Ability to make sound decisions within established guidelines.
  • Ability to perform entry-level activities that are narrow in scope and low in complexity.
  • Ability to operate basic metallurgical and laboratory equipment.
  • Ability to work in a production-oriented environment.
  • Ability to work effectively under direct supervision.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Commitment to safety, quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Carpenter Technology Company offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including life, medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, disability coverage, 401k with company contributions as well as many other options to employees.
Carpenter Technology Corporation's policy is to fully and effectively maintain a program of equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination for all employees, to employ affirmative action for all protected classes, and to recruit and develop the best qualified persons available regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by law. The Company also will recruit, develop and provide opportunities for qualified persons with disabilities and protected veterans.

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