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Film Lab Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lab Tech - Quality

Southfield, MI · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Safe and clean operation of the quality lab to include first piece testing on all product lines ... Familiarity with X-Rite, Wave scan, microscopy, film-build, and orange peel. Ability to perform ...

Laboratory Technician

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

On occasion, perform scanning of photographs, negatives, or color film transparencies. Required ... Prior histology lab experience. * Knowledge of image quality control metrics (e.g., resolution ...

Laboratory Technician

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

On occasion, perform scanning of photographs, negatives, or color film transparencies. Required ... Prior histology lab experience. * Knowledge of image quality control metrics (e.g., resolution ...

Work Environment This job will utilize the R&D Lab in an office environment to create bench samples ... Perform packaging trials for foil film pillow pouches, cases, cartons and displays to ensure proper ...

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Showing results 1-20

Film Lab information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$22

$39

How much do film lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for film lab in Michigan is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a film lab?

A Film Lab job involves processing, developing, and handling photographic or motion picture film. Technicians work with chemicals and specialized equipment to ensure high-quality image reproduction. Responsibilities may include film inspection, color correction, scanning, and printing for both analog and digital formats. This role is essential in the film industry for preserving and producing visual media.

What does a film lab do?

A typical day in a Film Lab involves processing exposed film, performing chemical baths and washes, maintaining precise temperature controls, and inspecting developed negatives for quality. You may also operate film scanners, coordinate with cinematographers or editors, and troubleshoot technical issues related to film handling or equipment. Collaboration is common, as you’ll often work alongside other technicians and communicate with production teams to ensure that all materials meet project specifications. The pace can be fast, especially when multiple projects are in the pipeline, but the work is rewarding for those who enjoy hands-on, detail-oriented tasks and contributing to the creative process of filmmaking.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the film lab position?

To thrive in a Film Lab, you need a solid understanding of film processing, color science, and chemical handling, typically supported by technical training or hands-on lab experience. Familiarity with film developing equipment, scanners, darkroom procedures, and quality control systems is integral to the job. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this environment. Mastering these skills is crucial for ensuring high-quality film output, maintaining safety standards, and meeting tight production deadlines.

Infographic showing various Film Lab job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,773 per year, or $22 per hour.

KCAD Student Photography Lab Tech (Student Position)

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Ferris State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees

$13.99/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Monitor and maintain computers, scanners, printers, and specialized equipment during open lab hours.

  • Set up and clean darkroom and printing equipment, including mixing chemicals and organizing supplies.

  • Assist in inventory management, ordering supplies, and reporting equipment repairs or replacements.


Ferris State University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

KCAD Student Photography Lab Tech (Student Position)

Apply now Job no: 498137
Work type: Student Employment - General
Location: Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Categories: Student Employment - General

Position Title: KCAD Student Photography Lab Tech (Student Position)   Location: Grand Rapids, MI   Department:

Kendall College of Art & Design

  Advertised Salary: $13.99   Summary of Position: You will be working in the Digital Lab, the Lighting Studio, Film/Print Darkrooms   Position Requirements: 1. One year of experience in digital and film photography with a working knowledge of SLR and DSLR camera equipment and darkroom/inkjet printing processes.
2. Good communication skills: must be able to answer student questions and explain photographic methods clearly.
3. The ability to work with a diverse group of photography students and faculty in a courteous and professional manner.
4. Must be reliable, punctual, and able to work with minimal supervision.   Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Monitor computers, scanners, and printer use during open lab hours.
Set up printers (nozzle checks, print head cleanings when needed, etc.).
Monitor the lab (computers, printers, scanners) during open lab hours, informing students of proper use of equipment and lab etiquette.
Clean up at end of lab hours; organize workstations with required supplies, power down printers, and return tools to proper storage areas at end of lab hours.
Monitor use of specialized equipment such as Epson film scanners and printers.
Working with photo faculty, inventory supplies, paper, and inks to be ordered; keep notes of needed equipment repair or replacement; organize work and storage spaces.
Set up darkroom (mix chemicals, fill trays, put out tongs, print washers, safelights, etc.).
Monitor the photo lab (darkroom, classroom and studio) during open lab hours, informing them of proper use of equipment and lab etiquette.
Clean up at end of lab hours; organize drawers and workstations with required supplies, and return tools to proper storage areas at end of lab hours. Dispose of used chemicals according to safe use and silver recovery guidelines.
Monitor use of specialized equipment such as studio lights and backdrops, dry mount press, mat cutters, and equipment checkout.
Minor maintenance of equipment and supplies such as replacement of enlarger bulbs and studio bulbs.
Working with photo faculty, inventory supplies and chemicals to be ordered; keep notes of needed equipment repair or replacement; organize work and storage spaces.   Number of Positions Available: 2   Documents Needed to Apply: Resume, Class Schedule   Job Close Date: December 12, 2026   EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence.  Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.  

Advertised: 19 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 12 Dec 2026 Eastern Standard Time

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