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Lab Associate Jobs in Buffalo, NY (NOW HIRING)

Lactalis USA, part of the Lactalis family of companies, is currently hiring a Lab Tech trainee ... Associates degree in Dairy Science Preferred. Dairy Science or other related experience preferred.

Lactalis USA, part of the Lactalis family of companies, is currently hiring a Lab Tech trainee ... Education and/or Experience: โ€ข High School Diploma/GED required. โ€ข Associates degree in Dairy ...

Front Desk Sales Associate

Buffalo, NY ยท On-site

$18 - $19/hr

With Co-Founders coming from the Personal Training industry, Stretch Lab has created a variety of ... The purpose of the Sales Associate is to assist the General Manager with membership sales by ...

Front Desk Sales Associate

Blasdell, NY ยท On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

With Co-Founders coming from the Personal Training industry, Stretch Lab has created a variety of ... The purpose of the Sales Associate is to assist the General Manager with membership sales by ...

Front Desk Sales Associate

Buffalo, NY ยท On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

With Co-Founders coming from the Personal Training industry, Stretch Lab has created a variety of ... The purpose of the Sales Associate is to assist the General Manager with membership sales by ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Associate information

See Buffalo, NY salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Buffalo, NY is $21.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab associate?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab associate?

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Buffalo, NY?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Buffalo, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,068 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Optical Associate - Buffalo

Buffalo, NY โ€ข On-site

Medical Eyeglass Center Inc
Health Care and Social Assistanceย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago


Job description

  • This position is based in Buffalo, NY
  • About Medical Eyeglass Center (MEC)

    At MEC, we partner with leading medical/ophthalmology practices to provide patients with high-quality vision care and eyewear services. Our employees work directly inside medical offices, helping patients select and fit eyewear while creating a positive, professional experience. We pride ourselves on accuracy, customer service, and a patient-first approach that sets us apart.

    Position Overview

    MEC is seeking a skilled, patient-focused Optical Associate to join our team. In this position, you’ll play a key role in the successful operation of the optical dispensary, deliver outstanding service, and work closely with both patients and clinic staff. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys combining technical expertise with patient care in a supportive and professional setting.

    What You’ll Do
  • Provide patients with an outstanding eyewear experience, from selection to fitting and adjustments.
  • Accurately process and complete orders through MEC’s pointofsale systems.
  • Maintain detailed records of prescriptions, orders, payments, and insurance claims.
  • Review and track lab orders to ensure timely and accurate completion.
  • Submit insurance claims, post payments, and follow up on outstanding receivables.
  • Dispense prescription and nonprescription eyewear (and contact lenses where applicable.)
  • Assist patients with eyewear adjustments, repairs, and cleaning.
  • Maintain frame inventory, keeping displays organized, clean, and fully stocked.
  • Review daily patient schedules to anticipate volume, insurance eligibility, and sales opportunities.
  • Support inoffice promotions and marketing materials.
  • Build positive working relationships with providers, technicians, and administrative staff.
  • Maintain a professional and welcoming environment for patients and staff.
  • What We’re Looking For
  • A friendly, professional, and patientfocused personality.
  • Ability to read and interpret spectacle prescriptions (and contact lenses where applicable).
  • Skilled in eyewear fitting, adjustments, and repairs or willing to learn.
  • Strong customer service and sales skills, including handling objections.
  • Clear and professional verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with MS Excel, email, and insurance portals (preferred).
  • Strong organization and time management skills.
  • Teamoriented with the ability to build effective relationships.
  • Attention to detail and problemsolving mindset.
  • Receptive to feedback and committed to continuous learning.
  • Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum 6 months of experience in optical
  • Knowledge of frame adjustments and frame repairs
  • Experience taking accurate measurements (PD, seg height, optical center)
  • Familiarity with optical lab processes and lens types (single vision, bifocal, progressive)
  • Experience reading lenses using manual lensometer
  • Ability to handle insurance eligibility checks and authorizations
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy when filling prescriptions
  • Ability to multitask in a fastpaced environment
  • Basic computer skills and experience with EHR or optical POS systems
  • Job Type: Full-time

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program