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Food Lab Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Amarillo, TX · On-site

Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing, and organizing media and reagents essential to analytical and microbiological testing of food ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Aurora, IL · On-site

Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing, and organizing media and reagents essential to analytical and microbiological testing of food ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Amarillo, TX · On-site

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Aurora, IL

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Aurora, IL

Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Nutritional lab of Dr. Kristina Petersen is seeking a team of dynamic and responsible ... food handling and production. Hospitality experience a plus, but a positive attitude and a ...

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Food Lab Assistant information

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How much do food lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for food lab assistant in the United States is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Food lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring postsecondary education or training in food science, microbiology, or related fields. Strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols are also important qualifications.

What does a lab assistant do?

A food lab assistant supports food testing and analysis in a laboratory setting by preparing samples, operating testing equipment, and recording data. They ensure safety protocols are followed and may assist with quality control, product development, or research projects. Attention to detail and knowledge of lab procedures are important for this role.

What are some common challenges a Food Lab Assistant might face during routine testing and how can they be addressed?

Food Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict quality control standards while handling multiple samples and adhering to tight deadlines. Another common issue is managing cross-contamination risks, which requires careful attention to lab protocols and cleanliness. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is also crucial, especially when clarifying test procedures or reporting unusual findings. Staying organized, following standard operating procedures, and seeking guidance when uncertainties arise can help overcome these challenges and ensure accurate results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Food Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Food Lab Assistant, you need a background in food science or a related field, with knowledge of laboratory safety and basic analytical techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, food testing methods, and data management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work well in a team are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure accurate testing, compliance with safety standards, and efficient support of food quality and research operations.

What degree do you need for a lab assistant?

For a Food Lab Assistant position, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, though some roles may prefer or require an associate's or bachelor's degree in food science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with food safety standards.

What are Food Lab Assistants?

Food Lab Assistants are professionals who support food scientists and technologists in research and quality control laboratories. They help prepare samples, conduct experiments, maintain laboratory equipment, and record data related to food safety, nutrition, and product development. Their work is essential in ensuring food products meet safety standards and regulatory requirements. Food Lab Assistants often work in food manufacturing companies, research institutions, or government agencies.

What does a food lab assistant do?

A food lab assistant supports food testing and analysis in a laboratory setting by preparing samples, operating testing equipment, and recording data. They ensure food safety and quality standards are met, often following safety protocols and using tools like microscopes and testing kits. Attention to detail and knowledge of food safety regulations are important for this role.
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Food Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Lab Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,113 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Micro Lab Assistant

Certified Group

Amarillo, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing, and organizing media and reagents essential to analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmental samples. This role ensures the availability of accurate, sterile materials to support testing operations while maintaining laboratory safety and compliance standards.

Essential Responsibilities

  1. Prepare and maintain bacteriological media and chemical solutions.
  2. Safely operate an autoclave to sterilize media, reagents, and supplies.
  3. Label, handle, store, use, and dispose of media and solutions in accordance with safety guidelines.
  4. Maintain an accurate inventory of prepared media and supplies.
  5. Collaborate with other departments to prepare required media in a timely manner.
  6. Perform work in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner; maintain cleanliness and equipment within the department.
  7. Follow established processes, procedures, and techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures, customer requirements, and the media operations manual.
  8. Maintain laboratory conditions, equipment, supplies, quality assurance programs, and accurate records throughout all procedures.
  9. Share information in an open and timely manner to support team collaboration.
  10. Complete required training and comply with safety and quality programs.

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Familiarity with aseptic sampling techniques.
  • Experience operating autoclaves and sterile dispensing equipment preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of testing laboratory practices and general laboratory procedures.
  • One or more years of experience in a commercial food-testing laboratory preferred.
  • Competency with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) a plus.
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong organizational skills and ability to complete detailed manual tasks.
  • Ability to work under deadlines, manage interruptions, and multitask effectively.
  • Logical thinking and accuracy in task completion.
  • Basic math skills: add, subtract, multiply, divide, and work with fractions and decimals.
  • Ability to follow written and oral instructions and problem-solve within standardized situations.
  • Working knowledge of ISO 17025 quality procedures and general OSHA laboratory safety guidelines preferred.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

  • Frequent standing, walking, sitting, reaching, and handling of materials.
  • Occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
  • Regular use of hands and fingers to operate laboratory equipment and computers.
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens.
  • Varying noise levels and temperatures (hot to cold).
  • Fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
  • Overnight travel may be required at the discretion of management.
  • Must wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment.

General Requirements

  • Flexible schedule availability.
  • Ability to perform opening and closing procedures in the media laboratory.
  • Commitment to workplace safety for self and others.
  • Willingness to work as part of a collaborative, team-driven environment.

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