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Lab Assistant Jobs in Portage, WI (NOW HIRING)

Centstone HC

Phlebotomist

Mauston, WI · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

This role supports inpatient and outpatient lab services by collecting specimens accurately, preparing tests, and helping ensure timely diagnostic results for patient care. Responsibilities * Perform ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Portage, WI · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory ... needs · Assist patients in selecting frames according to style and color. Ensure frames are ...

New

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Portage, WI · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory ... needs · Assist patients in selecting frames according to style and color. Ensure frames are ...

New

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsLab JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Portage, WI

Lab Assistant information

See Portage, WI salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Portage, WI is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $24.52 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.

Is it hard to become a lab assistant?

Becoming a lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with some knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or certifications in relevant fields, and strong attention to detail and organizational skills are important for success in the role.

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.

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?

To become a lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require an associate degree or relevant coursework in science. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with safety protocols are important. Certification in laboratory safety or related areas can be beneficial but is not always required.

What are the duties of a lab assistant?

A lab assistant is responsible for preparing laboratory equipment and samples, maintaining a clean and organized work environment, and assisting scientists or technicians with experiments and data collection. They may also handle inventory management, record keeping, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Proficiency with lab tools and attention to detail are essential for this role.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, 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.

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

What cities near Portage, WI are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portage, WI with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Portage, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,744 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Plant Lab Technician - 1st Shift

Grande Cheese Company

Wyocena, WI • On-site

$22.89/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Grande Cheese Company rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

179th of 438 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Hours & Shift
4:00AM-4:00PM
2/2/3 Schedule
Pay Range
$22.89 based on position and experience.
$3 Night shift premium (6pm - 6am) and $2.25 Weekend shift premium (Saturday and Sunday shifts).
Job Summary
Perform laboratory tests on various products including dairy and environmental samples. Responsible for providing accurate test results using predetermined, approved methods of analysis and ensuring that results are communicated to our internal customers in a timely and efficient manner. Collaborate in the support of internal and external programs.
  1. Product Testing for analytical or micro testing
  2. Environmental Testing (water or isogrid, air sampling, environmental swabbing)
  3. Recording Data & Communication of Results (entry into Labware, D365)

Why Grande?
With more than 80 years of crafting "The Finest Italian Cheeses Money Can Buy", Grande is a leader in the industry! Whether partnering with independent pizzerias from coast-to-coast to ensure they're delivering the very best pizza to their customers or assisting our food manufacturing partners in delivering specialty whey ingredient solutions, our commitment to quality can't be matched. While Grande's reputation of excellence in the market is important, we believe our commitment to our workplace and community culture is of equal merit - our Associates come first at Grande. To complement our industry-leading benefits, Grande puts an emphasis on your career growth opportunities, while always promoting a positive work/life balance and supporting the communities in which we live and work.
Did we convince you yet? If not check out our unique benefits
  • Free onsite clinics
  • Free onsite fitness center
  • Free healthy snacks throughout facility
  • Health and wellness reimbursement program
  • Associate cheese purchasing program

What you need to be considered for the role:
Minimum: High School or GED
Preferred: Associate Degree in Chemistry, Microbiology or other related field preferred.
One (1) year of related work experience and/or training preferred.
Physical Demands and Work Conditions:
20-50lbs lifting, Climbing, Humid, Extreme Cold and Extreme Hot Temperatures.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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