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Lab Assistant Jobs in Mankato, MN (NOW HIRING)

Jack Link's Protein Snacks

Lab Technician

Mankato, MN · On-site

$18.55/hr

Clean all lab equipment, and surfaces daily or as needed. * Calibrate all lab equipment daily. * Inform management of any results that are outside of specifications. * Performs data entry to software ...

Jack Links

Lab Technician

Mankato, MN · On-site

$18.55/hr

Clean all lab equipment, and surfaces daily or as needed. * Calibrate all lab equipment daily. * Inform management of any results that are outside of specifications. * Performs data entry to software ...

Mayo Clinic

Clinical Lab Technologist - CLT

Mankato, MN · On-site

May work with minimal supervision and may assist with specimen collection. Must strictly adhere to ... UNOFFICAL, OR OFFICAL COLLEGE TRANSCRIPTS * and for foreign trained lab personnel to provide a ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Mankato, MN salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Mankato, MN is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and ensuring the accuracy of data collection. To manage these effectively, it's important to stay organized, communicate proactively with supervisors and colleagues, and remain attentive to details when handling samples or preparing equipment. Many labs offer training on safety and procedures, so taking advantage of these resources can help new hires adapt quickly and perform confidently in their roles.

What are lab assistants?

Lab assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or instructors by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting routine experiments, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. They may also be responsible for recording data, managing supplies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Lab assistants work in various settings, including educational institutions, research facilities, hospitals, and private laboratories.

What Is a Lab Assistant?

As a laboratory assistant or lab technician, you are responsible for helping scientists conduct experiments in a laboratory environment. You may be asked to prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment and log readings and results. Your responsibilities may also include performing basic analyses of samples and recording results accurately. Your responsibilities will vary based on the type of lab you work in, but compliance with protocols and commitment to safety and accuracy are critical in any lab.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced lab assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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

To thrive as a Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and often an associate degree or relevant coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and proper sample handling techniques is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain lab safety standards, and support smooth laboratory operations.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory procedures or safety. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Some roles may also require familiarity with specific tools or software used in labs.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing experiments, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, or extensive experience generally offer higher pay compared to entry-level lab assistant roles.

What is the difference between Lab Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, healthcare facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with sample collection, prepare specimens, maintain lab equipmentPerform complex tests, analyze samples, report results
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and research settingsPrimarily in medical diagnostics and healthcare

While both roles support laboratory operations, Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more advanced testing and require specialized education. Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support lab staff, making them entry-level positions in healthcare labs.

More about Lab Assistant jobs
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What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Mankato, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Mankato, MN are:
What cities near Mankato, MN are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Mankato, MN with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Mankato, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,746 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

MLS - Baylor shift, Overnights

Rivers Edge Health

Saint Peter, MN • On-site

$34.32 - $45.39/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description
Responsibilities:
  1. Perform diagnostic laboratory procedures that provide timely and accurate test results for providers use in appropriately diagnosing and treating patients.
  2. Participate in our Laboratory's Quality Assurance Plan.
  3. Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction by practicing River's Edge Hospital's Standards of Behavior.
  4. Understanding that the clinical Lab exists to service patients.
  5. Showing initiative and/or cooperation to maintain work flow.
  6. Participating in teamwork.
  7. Wear a Vocera every day for your whole shift to effectively communicate with other departments and your co-workers.
  8. Recognizing testing and lab priorities and act accordingly.
  9. Exercising good judgment in non-routine situations.
  10. Communicating effectively (orally and in writing) with other workers, supervisors, patients, and the public.
  11. Communicating test results, normal ranges and specimen requirements.
  12. Answering inquires about test results, methods, specificity, sensitivity, and specific factors that can influence test results.
  13. Seeking assistance or clarification when needed: accepting constructive criticism.
  14. Adhering to federal and state laws, regulations, and guidelines. (OSHA, CLIA)
  15. Adapting to changes in practice, accepting and implementing approved changes and learning new tasks.
  16. Taking responsibility for one's own career development, seeking out and participating in appropriate continuing education.
  17. Managing stress and resolve conflicts.
  18. Perform EKGs. (Mortara ELI 380)
    1. EKG Rhythm Strip-Lead II when ordered by the provider.
    2. Right sided EKG when ordered by provider.
    3. Pediatric EKGs.
  19. Perform only those waived, moderate, and/or high complexity tests that are authorized by the Lab Manager and require a degree skill commensurate with the individual's education, training or experience and technical abilities.
  20. Follow the Lab's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results.
  21. Properly identify and collect adequate specimens for laboratory testing via the following collection processes:
    1. Venipuncture
    2. Capillary collection
    3. Arterial collection (Radial only)
  22. Participate in proficiency testing program.
  23. Adhere to the Laboratory's quality control policy and procedures; document all quality control activities, instruments and procedure calibrations and maintenance performed.
  24. Follow the Lab's established polices and procedures whenever test systems are not within the Lab's established acceptable levels of performance.
  25. Be capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and either must correct the problem or immediately notify the Lab Manager, Senior Lab Tech, Technical Supervisor, or Clinical Consultant.
  26. Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the Lab's established performance specifications.
  27. Possess a working knowledge of reagent stability and storage.
  28. Is knowledgeable and adheres to Patient Bill of Rights and hospital policies relating to privacy, confidentiality and respect (HIPAA).
  29. Is knowledgeable in and follows and promotes facility policies and procedures including, but not limited to Infection Control, Safety, Quality Assurance, Lab's Chemical Hygiene Program, etc.
  30. Must be flexible with sharing scheduled weekends, holidays, evening shift, and overnight scheduled shift.
  31. Is willing to serve on facility committees when asked to do so (Employee Safety Committee).
  32. Is willing to participate in CQI and other lab projects.
  33. Must be flexible with sharing training duties for new employees and MLT/MLS students with other Lab personnel when requested to do so.
  34. Must be trained and certified to collect Urine Drug Screens for DOT and Non-DOT employees.

Requirements
  1. Have earned a Bachelor Degree in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) from an accredited institution or any Biologic Science or Chemistry Degree, and must be certified by ASCP or equivalent. If not already certified, new graduates must be eligible obtain MLS Certification within one year of employment.
  2. Must be certified with one of the following: ASCP, HEW, HHS, ASMT.
  3. Must be able to travel to other work sites as needed with own transportation.
  4. Certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) or will be certified within six months of hire through the American Heart Association.

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