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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Thornton, CO (NOW HIRING)

SPL

Lab Technician (Entry-Level)

Commerce City, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're searching for a Lab Technician to support sample preparation within our Inorganics laboratory team in Commerce City, CO. In this role, you'll be responsible for preparing and processing ...

SPL

Lab Technician (Entry-Level)

Commerce City, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're searching for a Lab Technician to support sample preparation within our Inorganics laboratory team in Commerce City, CO. In this role, you'll be responsible for preparing and processing ...

SGS

Lab Technician I - Metals

Wheat Ridge, CO · On-site

$22.50/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Wheat Ridge, CO laboratory is seeking an entry-level Lab Technician to join their Metals team! The Lab Technician I will prepare samples with accuracy and precision in accordance to SGS ...

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All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Thornton, CO

Entry Level Lab information

See Thornton, CO salary details

$13

$24

$51

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Thornton, CO is $24.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $26.54 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 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Thornton, CO?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Thornton, CO are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab jobs in Thornton, CO?

For Entry Level Lab jobs in Thornton, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Thornton, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Thornton, CO are:

What cities near Thornton, CO are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs?

Cities near Thornton, CO with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:

Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Thornton, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,176 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Lab Technician (Entry-Level)

SPL

Commerce City, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 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 Lab Technician to support sample preparation within our Inorganics laboratory team in Commerce City, CO.


In this role, you'll be responsible for preparing and processing environmental samples, maintaining accurate laboratory records, supporting quality control activities, and helping ensure the timely delivery of reliable analytical data. You'll develop valuable technical skills, gain exposure to laboratory operations and analytical workflows, and contribute directly to the success of client projects.


Whether you're beginning your laboratory career or looking to expand your experience, this role offers a strong foundation for professional growth within the environmental testing industry.



What You'll Do

  • Perform sample preparation of environmental samples following established laboratory methods and procedures
  • Accurately enter, review, and maintain sample preparation data within LIMS
  • Perform routine quality control activities associated with sample preparation processes
  • Follow SOPs, QA/QC standards, safety protocols, and chain-of-custody procedures
  • Support laboratory workflow, productivity, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Collaborate with laboratory team members to meet sample throughput and turnaround time objectives
  • Assist with performing housekeeping, glassware cleaning, and inventory management activities
  • Collaborate with laboratory team to meet sample throughput and turnaround time objectives
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

What We're Looking For

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline preferred; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of degree
  • Hands-on laboratory experience gained through employment, internships, research projects, or academic coursework preferred
  • Previous professional experience working in fast-paced, high-throughput environments
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook)


What We Offer

  • Competitive 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

  • Full-time, onsite position following a 4x10 schedule (four 10-hour shifts per week) within the Monday-Friday workweek, with one Saturday shift required per quarter
  • Flexibility to work beyond regular business hours when necessary to meet operational needs


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.

Apply