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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Temple, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Lab information

See Temple, TX salary details

$12

$22

$46

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Temple, TX is $22.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $24.13 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 Temple, TX?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Temple, TX are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Temple, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Temple, TX are:

What cities near Temple, TX are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs?

Cities near Temple, TX with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:

Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Temple, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,498 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Lab Assistant - Aviation Maintenance (Entry-level)

Waco, TX • On-site

Tstc
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Tstcexternal

$16.34/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Are you someone who strives for excellence, values accountability, provides the best service, all while reflecting unwavering integrity? Our talented team members across the state follow the behaviors, beliefs and outcomes of these core values to ensure that our vision is met. If you're ready to join the TSTC family and make great memories please complete our application process.

Job DescriptionThe Lab Assistant works under the direction of the instructional lead or designee on duty and provides instructional assistance in the laboratory, learning center, storeroom and office. The Lab Assistant's duties primarily focus on providing supplemental lab instruction to students.
This position is a great entry point into TSTC and the aviation program department with an expected hourly pay rate of $16.34/hr (paid bi-weekly) plus full benefits. Hourly rate may vary slightly based upon background and experience.

Essential Functions

  • Assist the professional faculty member in the classroom, laboratory, computer lab, or shop as directed. Assist students with materials already covered by the instructor, including exam preparation. Assist students as they conduct laboratory work. Provide tutoring to students and supplemental instruction on an as needed basis.
  • Grade papers, exercises, and tests by use of predetermined objective criteria. Process student records and maintain student files.
  • Prepare the lab for class, secure equipment after class and set up and disassemble lab experiments. Test new lab equipment for quality and accuracy. Perform routine maintenance and repair on laboratory equipment and other instructional aids.
  • Aid professional staff in the construction of training aids. Initiate requisitions for consumable supplies and equipment repairs. Prepare consumable materials for classroom, laboratory and shop exercises.
  • Maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment and assure security of each.
  • Assist in helping student workers as assigned. Monitor instructional areas for safety conditions.
  • Operate motor vehicles for purpose of conducting TSTC business.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience/Knowledge/Skills

  • High school diploma or GED required. Associates degree in related field from an accredited college preferred.
  • One year of successful related work experience.
  • Considerable knowledge of and skill in performing laboratory procedures.
  • Ability to work effectively with others and to follow oral and written instructions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Texas State Technical College (TSTC), as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. TSTC is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.


Employment Eligibility Verification

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at TSTC.


Background Checks

A criminal history background check will be required for the finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

TSTC Robotics logo

About TSTC Robotics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Waco, TX, US

Year founded

1991

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