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Lab Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are ... Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner * Professional demeanor

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are ... Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner * Professional demeanor

Technician I, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are ... Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner * Professional demeanor

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Lab Associate information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Minnesota is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lab Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and typically a degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and efficient support for scientific research or clinical testing.

How much does a lab assistant earn?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries.

What are Lab Associates?

Lab Associates are professionals who assist in the daily operations of laboratories by performing tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They typically work under the supervision of scientists or lab managers and help ensure that laboratory procedures are followed safely and accurately. Lab Associates play a crucial role in supporting research and development, quality control, or diagnostic testing in fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the specific lab setting and industry.

Do you need qualifications to be a lab assistant?

Lab associates typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant certifications. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important for the role.

What is the difference between Lab Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications varyAssociate degree or relevant certification; similar educational background
Work EnvironmentHospitals, research labs, clinicsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, data entry, basic testingPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, recording results
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, research, biotechMedical, industrial, research sectors

Both Lab Associates and Laboratory Technicians work in similar environments and often share educational requirements. The main difference lies in specific job duties, with Laboratory Technicians typically performing more complex tests and equipment maintenance. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those with specialized skills, advanced certifications, or experience in high-demand fields such as pharmaceutical or clinical research laboratories. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of expertise. Senior or supervisory roles typically offer higher compensation.

What are some typical challenges a Lab Associate might face during day-to-day work, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring precise documentation, and maintaining equipment. Staying organized by keeping detailed lab notes and using lab management software can help streamline workflow. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is vital to address any issues promptly and maintain a safe, efficient laboratory environment. Regularly scheduled equipment checks and proactive troubleshooting also contribute to smoother operations.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work under supervision in research or clinical labs and may need knowledge of safety protocols and laboratory techniques.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Associate jobs in Minnesota? For Lab Associate jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Medical Lab Technician, Full Time

Medical Lab Technician, Full Time

Fairview Range

Hibbing, MN • On-site

$26.32 - $36.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Fairview Health Services rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 241 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 873 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Overview
Fairview Range is hiring a Medical Lab Technician for our Laboratory Services Department in Hibbing, MN!
***We're offering an up to $10,000 sign-on bonus for a two-year commitment!
As a Medical Lab Technician (MLT) you will perform chemical, bacteriological, serological and microscopic procedures in one or more functional laboratory sections.
This position plays an important role in providing quality, proficient, and professional laboratory services to diverse populations within an integrated healthcare environment. The Medical Laboratory Technician performs waived, moderate or high complexity testing, correlates data-based knowledge of technical and instrumental conditions affecting testing and performs quality control procedures within established parameters. This position also may be involved in laboratory specimen collection, safe and secure specimen handling, ensuring efficient workflow and may schedules tests and provides results as appropriate. The MLT works independently under general supervision.
Schedule: This position will work 72-80 hours per two weeks. The shift length will be 8-hour and 12-hour shifts. Shifts will include Days, Evenings, Nights, and every other weekend.
Internal posting through: 3/8/26
About Fairview Range Medical Center Lab:
  • CAP accredited.
  • Lab consists of chemistry, urinalysis, hematology, coagulation, transfusion medicine including antibody identification, microbiology, histology, cytology, and pathology.
  • Part of multidisciplinary care team supporting each inpatient department.
  • Lab staff include MLS/MT, HT, MLT, and LCT as well as tech specialists in various lab sections.

About Fairview Range
Fairview Range is an affiliate of M Health Fairview, a partnership of Fairview Health Services, the University of Minnesota, and M Physicians. Together, we offer access to breakthrough medical research and specialty expertise as part of a continuum of care that reaches all ages and health needs. The most comprehensive health care network in northeastern Minnesota, Fairview Range includes Fairview Range Medical Center, Fairview Mesaba Clinics (with locations in Hibbing, Nashwauk, and Mountain Iron), and Fairview Range Home Care and Hospice.
Apply today to join our 34,000+ employees and 5,000+ system providers working to build lasting relationships with the people we serve: our patients, our communities, and each other.
Responsibilities
  • Follows established guidelines to obtain specimens, perform waived, moderate or high complexity testing and report results
  • Collect and process biological specimens with appropriate technique following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
  • Perform testing analysis and verify assay/analyzer performance according to SOP in an efficient, cost-effective manner. Any combination of the following areas may be included: Hematology, Coagulation, Microbiology, Serology, Immunology, Immunohematology, Chemistry, Special Chemistry, Urinalysis, Phlebotomy
  • Document and communicate lab test results thoroughly and accurately according to SOP.
  • Perform and document maintenance procedures plus maintain adequate supplies.
  • Seeks assistance appropriately for problem or unusual situations.
  • Consistently implement and adhere to the laboratory customer service standards. The standards include maintaining confidentiality, promoting teamwork, successful communication and conflict resolution.
  • Scheduling tests/procedures according to SOPs
  • Verifying patient demographic and billing insurance information for lab only employees
  • Explaining test procedures when applicable to patients in a manner geared to gain their confidence and cooperation and relieve anxiety about the test
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Supports and adheres to laboratory SOPs, quality assurance, performance improvement and compliance programs recognizing trends and identifying when additional reporting, communication or other action is appropriate. Demonstrates competency and compliance with all regulatory agency policies.

Required Qualifications
  • Associate of Science from a Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation accredited MLT program
  • Qualified to work in a highly complex laboratory as a mandated in the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988 (CLIA)
  • Medical Lab Tech Certification by ASCP or equivalent or needs to acquire certification within 1 Year

Preferred Qualifications
  • 1 year experience as a Medical Laboratory Technician in an integrated healthcare environment
  • 3 years' experience in a clinical laboratory

Benefit Overview
Fairview Range offers a generous benefits package, including but not limited to medical, dental,vision, PTO and Sick and Safe Time, tuition reimbursement, retirement and more! Please follow this link for additional information: https://www.fairview.org/benefits/rgafscmetech
Compensation Disclaimer
The posted compensation range corresponds to the minimum and maximum pay rates outlined in your union agreement for the respective job classifications at the time of job posting. An individual's pay rate within this range may be influenced by various factors, including FTE, skills, knowledge, educational background, and qualifying experience as specified in the contract. If your role is eligible for a sign-on bonus, the bonus program that is approved and in place at the time of offer, is what will be honored.
EEO Statement
EEO/Vet/Disabled: All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to any lawfully protected status

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About Fairview Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Fairview Health Services is an industry-leading, award-winning nonprofit that offers an entire network of healthcare services. Fairview is one part of M Health Fairview, a partnership between the University of Minnesota, M Physicians and Fairview Health Services. Together, we combine the University's deep history of clinical innovation and training with Fairview's extensive roots in community medicine. Our care portfolio includes community hospitals, academic hospitals, primary and specialty care clinics, senior facilities, facilitated living centers, rehabilitation centers, home health care services, counseling, pharmacies and benefit management services.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US