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Lab Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, ON (NOW HIRING)

Costco Wholesale

Maintenance Assistant

Guelph, ON

CA$20/hr

Cleans and provides janitorial services and general upkeep for all areas of the Optical Lab to meet company standards and to protect employees and equipment. Cleans floors. Operates cardboard and ...

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Lab Technician

Cambridge, ON

CA$25/hr

Position Summary Acuren is excited to welcome a Laboratory Technician to our growing team. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on laboratory experience, develop your skills and contribute as ...

New

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Lab Technician

Cambridge, ON

CA$25/hr

Acuren is excited to welcome a Laboratory Technician to our growing team. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on laboratory experience, develop your skills and contribute as part of a ...

New

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Lab Assistant information

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
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Waterloo, ON? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Waterloo, ON are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Waterloo, ON look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Waterloo, ON are:
What cities near Waterloo, ON are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Waterloo, ON with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Waterloo, ON as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Maintenance Assistant

Maintenance Assistant

Costco Wholesale

Guelph, ON

CA$20/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Costco rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,900 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

See More See Less
Job Description 

Description of position:
Cleans and provides janitorial services and general upkeep for all areas of the Optical Lab to meet company standards and to protect employees and equipment. Cleans floors. Operates cardboard and trash compactors. Follows safety and security procedures. Assists in grounds maintenance. Restocks cleaning supplies as needed.
Daily tasks and responsibilities:

  • Checks daily schedule for routine tasks.
  • Cleans floors in offices, break room, restrooms, production floor, and other areas of the facility. Changes scrubber water frequently to keep dust at minimum.
  • Empties trash from designated areas throughout the Lab. Operates trash and cardboard compactors.
  • Follows location procedures and standards for the performance of duties. Follows safety and security procedures.
  • Responds quickly to clean up spills.
  • Cleans facility light fixtures regularly; changes light bulbs. Washes windows, upper walls, and ceilings. Vacuums rafters periodically.
  • Assists in grounds maintenance, such as blowing leaves, picking up litter, and conducting roof checks. Participates in snow and ice removal. Assists with painting. Performs concrete floor repairs throughout lab.
  • Monitors cleaning supplies and restock as necessary. Received and place merchandise in the appropriate department.
  • Follows proper Optical Lab and general safety and security procedures and standards.
  • Provides prompt and courteous customer service to members, employees, and suppliers. Give submission for pieces or other.
  • Understand and operate de maintenance system Interal.
  • Do the store inventory
  • Perform the internal and external purchases.


Non-Essential Functions and Tasks:

  • Assists in other areas of the Lab as necessary.


Qualifications (Costco-specific or industry-specific skills that candidates must possess):

  • Education/Training:    High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • Licenses/Certifications:    Driver's license is required
  • Experience:        Janitorial experience preferred
  • Knowledge/Skills:    Mechanical aptiture required. Manual dexterity required.
  • Other:         


Knowledge and talents recommended for job success:
NOTE: For postings in Quebec locations, candidates must be able to communicate in French (oral and written).

Pay Details 
$20.00 - 20.00
Pay Rate Type 
Hourly
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About Costco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Costco is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise. With more than 800 locations worldwide, Costco provides a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of specialty departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. Today, as the company evolves, it stays true to the qualities that helped attract and retain millions of loyal members around the globe: Commitment to quality. Costco warehouses carry about 4,000 SKUs (stock keeping units) compared to the 30,000 found at most supermarkets. By carefully choosing products based on quality, price, brand, and features, the company can offer the best value to members.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Issaquah, WA, US

Year founded

1983

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