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Lab Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Assistant information

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Rochester, MN is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Processing Assistant - Histology - Limited Tenure

Lab Processing Assistant - Histology - Limited Tenure

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 673 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

** This is a limited tenure position for a maximum of 2 years. **

The Anatomic Pathology Core Lab is looking for a Lab Processing Assistant to join their team. The Histology Laboratory processes over 400,000 paraffin-embedded blocks and 1,500,00 slides per year. Specimens handled in this laboratory include surgical, autopsy, and research material. The laboratory takes pride in contributing to the accurate diagnosis of the patient and the expansion of scientific knowledge through the services it offers both pathologists, and research investigators. 

Visit the Clinical Labs career site to watch a brief video of Lina discussing her role as a Lab Processing Assistant at Mayo Clinic. 

As an LPA you will be an integral part of the laboratory team, and your responsibilities will include:

  • Operating a variety of laboratory and office equipment
  • Entering information and test orders into the laboratory computer system
  • Responding to a high volume of phone calls seeking laboratory testing information
  • Ensuring correct patient identification on specimens
  • Documentation and resolution of pre-analytic specimen-related issues
  • Potentially performing complex reagent preparation 
  • Managing work unit supply inventory
  • Operations automated systems
  • Providing training to others

 *Individuals hired to this position will be required to complete 2 years in this position before becoming eligible to apply to other positions within Mayo Clinic.* 

**This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship; Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program. **

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law".  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

** This is a limited tenure position for a maximum of 2 years. **

An associate degree or a high school diploma or equivalent with 2 years of work experience including clinical laboratory and/or other relevant experience.  

Additional Qualifications

  • Associate degree in a health or science field preferred. 
  • Previous experience or knowledge of computers and keyboarding, telephone operations and other office equipment desired. 
  • Ability to accurately read specimen labels and work with numbers to prevent mislabeling. 
  • Must be organized, able to prioritize and work in a fast paced environment. 
  • Must possess good human relations skills and be able to communicate effectively both orally and in written form. 
  • Must be able to work independently as well as in a team environment. 
  • Must be able to accommodate scheduling adjustments, off-shifts, holiday, and weekend work assignments.  
  • Requires the ability to be attentive to details and to adhere to strict safety requirements for handling chemicals, reagents and infectious agents.

Application Requirements

*All must be included for your application to be considered: 

  • CV/Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Transcripts (unofficial copy accepted) or NACES detailed international equivalency for foreign degrees.  
  • Internal candidates must provide their past three performance appraisals. 

**DLMP employees that have been in current lab/position for less than 2 years must attach early release approval from supervisor. 

***Non-DLMP internal applicants that have been in their current department/position for less than 1 year must attach early release approval from supervisor. 

*International transcript:

  • MUST have a DETAILED equivalency evaluation.
  • MUST show US equivalent degree.
  • Evaluation MUST be completed from an organization listed as a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) www.naces.org OR the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE) www.aice-eval.org

What Mayo Clinic employees say

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919