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Lab Assistant Jobs in Three Rivers, MI (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Review preliminary and final test results. * Assist in resolution of technical problems in ... Associate's degree in a chemical, physical, or biological science or medical lab technology.

... * Assist in quality duties to by taking incubator temperatures, inoculating control organisms ... Working knowledge of aseptic sampling technique, automated lab equipment, and acceptable methods ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Three Rivers, MI salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Three Rivers, MI is $18.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $21.30 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Three Rivers, MI? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Three Rivers, MI are:
What cities near Three Rivers, MI are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Three Rivers, MI with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Three Rivers, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,840 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Assistant Microbiologist I (2nd Shift, Tues-Sat) - Sturgis, MI Plant

Assistant Microbiologist I (2nd Shift, Tues-Sat) - Sturgis, MI Plant

Abbott

Sturgis, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Abbott rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.JOB DESCRIPTION:
Job Title

Assistant Microbiologist I (2nd Shift, Tues-Sat)

Working at Abbott

At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and your family, be your true self, and live a full life. You'll also have access to:

  • Production areas that are clean, well-lit and temperature-controlled

  • Training and career development, with onboarding programs for new employees and tuition assistance

  • Financial security through competitive compensation, incentives and retirement plan

  • Health care and well-being programs including medical, dental, vision, wellness and occupational health programs, Medical Benefits start day 1

  • Vacation - 120 hours of accrued vacation (1st yr is prorated) + vacation buy program + 3 personal days + 10 paid holidays

  • Retiree Healthcare program

  • Robust 401(k) retirement savings with a generous company match

  • Tuition reimbursement, the Freedom 2 Save student debt program and FreeU education benefit - an affordable and convenient path to getting a bachelor's degree.

  • A company recognized as a great place to work in dozens of countries around the world and named one of the most admired companies in the world by Fortune.

  • A stablecompany with a record of strong financial performance and history of being actively involved in local communities

  • A company that is recognized as one of the best big companies to work for as well as the best place to work for diversity, working mothers, female executives, and scientists.

The Opportunity

This position works out of our Sturgis, MI location in the Abbott Nutrition division. Our Nutrition business develops science-based nutrition products for people of all ages, from helping babies and children grow to keeping adult bodies strong and active. Millions of people around the world count on our leading brands - including Similac, PediaSure, Pedialyte, Ensure, and Glucerna - to help them get the nutrients they need to live their healthiest lives.

For over 70 years, Abbott's Sturgis, Mich., has been impacting its community while producing products that provide essential nutrition to millions of families around the world. Working here, you'll feel part of a family that is dedicated to making a difference and helping others.

What You'll Work On

  • Adequately display the knowledge and ability to carry out the sampling of Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP) requirements and comply with the department objective.

  • Apply Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and aseptic technique in the Microbiological sampling of EMP samples such as air samples, swabs, steam, and water.

  • Adequately display the knowledge and ability to carry out testing functions of various pathogens such as Salmonella, Cronobacter, E.Coli, Staph aureus, etc.

  • Be able to use aseptic technique in a controlled environment and use varying plating techniques to identify subject organisms.

  • Learn quality system items to assist with batch release and quality assurance.

  • Be able to work with fellow technicians, with a high degree of motivation, attention to important details with clear communication to all team members. This is important due to the high degree of responsibility where each person is heavily relied-upon for the success of the department.

  • Prioritize tasks efficiently and complete all sampling at the required frequency.

  • The Micro Technician reports directly to the Lab Supervisor/FLL and must be able to work with minimal supervision. The incumbent is responsible for complying with applicable Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), FDA, USDA, OSHA and Abbott regulations, policies, procedures or guidelines.

  • Conduct sampling aseptically and safely per procedures.

  • Perform environmental sampling in the production environment.

  • Complete appropriate documentation for all samples collected.

  • Ability to prepare tools and paperwork for sample collection

  • Complete housekeeping responsibilities including waste disposal, general laboratory sanitation, etc.

  • Demonstrate accountability and responsibility for Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) performance and compliance through active participation and support of Abbott's EHS Program.

You'll be accountable for meeting our compliance standards including FDA, OSHA and Abbott policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications

  • High School Diploma / GED

  • 1 year of appropriate college lab studies and 1 year of college mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry or calculus) AND 2 years of laboratory experience OR 4 years' experience in a food or pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

  • OR a Science related Associate's Degree with at least 1 year of appropriate college lab studies and 1 year of college mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry or calculus), AND 1 year of related laboratory experience OR 2 years' experience in a food or pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

  • OR a Science related Bachelor's Degree with at least 1 year of appropriate college lab studies and 1 year of college mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry or calculus).

  • Working knowledge of operations in a GMP setting required

  • Strong attention to detail and analytical skills

  • Solid computer skills

  • Ability to work in a highly matrixed and geographically diverse business environment.

  • Ability to work within a team and as an individual contributor in a fast-paced, changing environment.

  • Ability to leverage and/or engage others to accomplish projects.

  • Strong verbal and written communications with ability to effectively communicate at multiple levels in the organization.

  • Strong organizational and follow-up skills, as well as attention to detail.

  • Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Pre-Employment Inquiries and Citizenship | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (eeoc.gov)

Apply Now

* Participants who complete a short wellness assessment qualify for FREE coverage in our HIP PPO medical plan. Free coverage applies in the next calendar year.

Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com

Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity and Military/Veteran friendly Employer, committed to employee diversity.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott, and on Twitter @AbbottNews.

The base pay for this position is

$19.05 - $38.15/hour

In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.

JOB FAMILY:Operations QualityDIVISION:ANSC Nutrition Supply ChainLOCATION:United States > Sturgis : Building 01AADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:WORK SHIFT:Shift Premium (United States Of America)TRAVEL:NoMEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:NoSIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Continuous standing for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Continuous walking for prolonged periods (more than 2 hours at a time in an 8 hour day)Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Women/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans.EEO is the Law link - English: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_English.pdfEEO is the Law link - Espanol: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_Spanish.pdf

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