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Lab Associate Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Travel Medical Lab Technician

Lawton, OK · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Encode INC is seeking a travel Medical Lab Technician for a travel job in Lawton, Oklahoma ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or ...

Lab · Schedule: PRN · MLT / MLS preferred · Location: Healthplex South Our mission and values ... Associate's degree or equivalent years of experience and education EXPERIENCE * No experience ...

Lab • Schedule: PRN • MLT / MLS preferred • Location: Healthplex South Our mission and values ... Associate's degree or equivalent years of experience and education EXPERIENCE * No experience ...

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Lab Associate information

See Oklahoma salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Oklahoma is $20.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $23.08 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.

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.

How much does a lab assistant 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 the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers, Principal Investigators, or specialized research scientists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, resulting in higher compensation compared to entry-level lab associate roles.

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 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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's degree or higher in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or laboratory technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory environments, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the industry. Their role supports research, quality control, or diagnostic processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Oklahoma? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Oklahoma are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Associate jobs in Oklahoma? For Lab Associate jobs in Oklahoma, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oklahoma are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities in Oklahoma with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Oklahoma as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,959 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Pediatric Medical Lab Scientist - Blood Bank (6a-630p)

Pediatric Medical Lab Scientist - Blood Bank (6a-630p)

OU Health

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


OU Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Title:Pediatric Medical Lab Scientist - Blood Bank (6a-630p)Department:Blood BankJob Description:

ew to OU Health? Ask your recruiter about our competitive total rewards package including a possible sign-on bonus and relocation assistance if you are located outside of 100 miles!

**Positions are available at levels 1-3 depending on experience, license/certification and education.**

SHIFT: Fri-Sun 6am-630pm

General Description: Under close supervision, performs routine standardized clinical diagnostic tests in a clinical laboratory. May require working with infectious agents.

Essential Responsibilities:

Responsibilities listed in this section are core to the position. Inability to perform these responsibilities with or without an accommodation may result in disqualification from the position.

  • Performs waived and nonwaived laboratory patient testing in a prompt and reliable manner according to established hospital and departmental policies.

  • Complies with all hospital and laboratory safety policies and procedures including the appropriate us of PPE.

  • Participates in performance improvement activities and supports the hospital in meeting regulatory and accreditation standards.

  • Participates in laboratory quality activities including quality monitoring and auditing, occurrence/deviation documentation and performance improvement.

  • Receives, sorts, accesses the acceptability of specimens for testing and/or distributes specimens to appropriate laboratories/laboratory sections.

  • Records information in the OUH lab informatics system relative to patient demographics, specimen/sample collection, identification, preservation, processing, quality control, test results and specimen referral.

  • Assess potential performance problems that may occur during testing, take appropriate action as needed.

  • Prepares chemical solutions and reagent preparation with appropriate labeling.

  • Perform quality control procedures following authorized laboratory policy.

  • Operates, calibrates, and maintains instrumentation within scope of training and established protocols.

  • Documents completion of instrument maintenance and function checks.

  • Assumes responsibility of own professional development.

  • Calls notification values to appropriate clinical staff and documents those notifications in the electronic medical record.

  • Performs proficiency testing according to laboratory and regulatory requirements.

  • Participates in inventory management and completes annual competency assessments.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Level 1):

Education: Associate Degree of Medical Lab Technology (MLT), OR Bachelor's Degree which includes: 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses, OR 24 semester hours of science courses that include six (6) semester hours of chemistry, six (6) semester hours of biology, and twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination required.

Experience: 0 - 3 years of experience in a clinical or other laboratory settingrequired.

License(s)/Certification(s)/Registration(s): Nationally recognized certification through one of the following governing accreditations:ASCP, AMT, AABB, NASKL, ASCLS, HHS, ASHI, AAB, ABB, AMS, CRP, EBPH, Military or NILA preferred.

Minimum Qualifications (Level 2):

Education: Associate Degree of Medical Lab Technology (MLT), OR Bachelor's Degree which includes: 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses, OR 24 semester hours of science courses that include six (6) semester hours of chemistry, six (6) semester hours of biology, and twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination required.

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in a clinical or other laboratory setting required.

License(s)/Certification(s)/Registration(s) Required: Nationally recognized certification through one of the following governing accreditations:ASCP, AMT, AABB, NASKL, ASCLS, HHS, ASHI, AAB, ABB, AMS, CRP, EBPH, Military or NILA.

Minimum Qualifications (Level 3):

Education: Associate Degree of Medical Lab Technology (MLT), OR Bachelor's Degree which includes: 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses, OR 24 semester hours of science courses that include six (6) semester hours of chemistry, six (6) semester hours of biology, and twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination required.

Experience: 5 or more years of experience in a clinical or other laboratory setting required.

License(s)/Certification(s)/Registration(s) Required: Nationally recognized certification through one of the following governing accreditations:ASCP, AMT, AABB, NASKL, ASCLS, HHS, ASHI, AAB, ABB, AMS, CRP, EBPH, Military or NILA

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Must have the skills to perform required laboratory testing.

  • Must be able to work as part of a team and follow instructions.

  • Must be able to consistently and dependably report to work as scheduled.

  • Must be able to maintain legible, accurate and organized records.

  • Ability to exercise discretion in handling confidential information and exercise sound judgment.

  • Must be able to multi-task and remain calm in stressful situations.

  • Must possess ability to understand various operations, policies and procedures.

  • Ability to work and communicate with co-workers and other caregivers, and meet their needs in a professional, polite, courteous, compassionate, and cooperative manner.

  • Must demonstrate a high level of initiative, effort, and commitment towards establishing priorities and completing assignments.

  • Core knowledge and understanding of normal laboratory processes.

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Current OU Health Employees - Please click HERE to login.OU Health is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including PTO, 401(k), medical and dental plans, and many more. We know that a total benefits and compensation package, designed to meet your specific needs both inside and outside of the work environment, create peace of mind for you and your family.

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About OU Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

OU Health is a leading company in the healthcare industry, based in Oklahoma City, OK, US. As the state's only comprehensive academic health system, OU Health provides a full spectrum of medical care, from world-class cancer treatments to life-saving emergency care. Founded with a mission to advance healthcare, medical education, and research across the state, the company has a solid reputation for clinical excellence and a patient-centered approach. Upholding its core values of compassion, integrity, and innovation, OU Health has remarkably made a significant contribution to medical research and education and raised the standard of care across a broad range of specialties.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Oklahoma City, OK, US

Year founded

2020