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Lab Associate Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

Lab Supervisor

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$38.50 - $43/hr

Completing monthly lab staffing schedule; * Adhering to safety policies as defined by Patient First ... an Associate degree in chemistry, biology or related science. Completion of clinical rotations in ...

Lab Supervisor

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$38.50 - $43/hr

Completing monthly lab staffing schedule; * Adhering to safety policies as defined by Patient First ... an Associate degree in chemistry, biology or related science. Completion of clinical rotations in ...

Lab Supervisor

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$38.50 - $43/hr

Completing monthly lab staffing schedule; * Adhering to safety policies as defined by Patient First ... an Associate degree in chemistry, biology or related science. Completion of clinical rotations in ...

Associate Scientist 2

Rockville, MD · On-site

$27 - $44/hr

Operates and maintains lab equipment as required by SOPs and testing procedures. * Performs peer ... Associate Degree in a scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, etc.) with 2+ ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Associate information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Columbia, MD is $22.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Columbia, MD? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Columbia, MD are:
What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Lab Supervisor

Patient First

Annapolis, MD • On-site

$38.50 - $43/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Patient First rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

266th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Responsibilities

The responsibilities of this job include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Following the laboratory's procedure for specimen collection, handling, and processing, as well as test analyses, reporting, and maintaining records of test results; Following the laboratory's quality control policies;
  • Coordinating instrument maintenance and procedural calibrations;
  • Documenting all quality controls activities, instrument and procedural calibrations, and maintenance;
  • Identifying indicators that may impact test performance or reporting of test results and either making corrections or notifying Lab Director;
  • Understanding all checklists and being able to perform all duties on the checklists associated with the position;
  • Ensuring appropriate labs are ordered and performed;
  • Completing monthly lab staffing schedule;
  • Adhering to safety policies as defined by Patient First and OSHA;
  • Providing positive, warm and friendly customer service in all interactions;
  • Fostering teamwork and a positive, professional atmosphere;
  • Completing other duties as directed.
Minimum Education and Professional Requirements

Minimum education and professional requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Employee must be at least 18 years of age;
  • High school graduate or equivalent;
  • Keyboarding experience required;
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
  • One year of clerical experience preferred;
  • One year of clinical experience preferred;
  • One year of supervisory experience preferred;
  • Minimum 60 semester hours from a regionally accredited college, including chemistry, biology, and medical laboratory techniques, or an Associate degree in chemistry, biology or related science. Completion of clinical rotations in the areas of microbiology, urinalysis, chemistry and hematology; or Fifty week military Medical Laboratory Procedures course and meet qualifications for military enlisted occupational specialty of "Medical Laboratory Specialist";
  • Registered Medical Technologists (M.T.) or Medical Laboratory Technicians (M.L.T.) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or other recognized certification agency of medical laboratory professionals preferred;
  • Registry-eligible technologists are encouraged to apply.
Salary Range

$38.50 - $43.00, depending on experience.

Benefits and Other Compensation

• Health, Dental and Vision insurance for employees and dependents

• Disability, Life and Long Term care insurance

• Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending accounts, 40 1(k) Retirement Plan (with employer match)

• Paid Annual Leave, Volunteer Time Off Pay, Bereavement Leave, Emergency Leave Bank

• Overtime Pay, Holiday Pay, Double time compensation for all holidays worked

• Discounted medical treatment at any Patient First location for employees and immediate family

• Bonuses include:

- Recruitment bonus

- Patient Care Performance bonus (center employees only)

- Weekend bonus (center employees only)


What Patient First employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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