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Lab Associate Jobs in Columbia, MO (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Columbia, MO

$18 - $24/hr

HS diploma (Associate's degree in Chemistry, or related discipline, preferred) * Ability to work in the U.S. without restriction or sponsorship Ideal Candidate Qualifications The successful candidate ...

Lab Technician

Columbia, MO · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

HS diploma (Associate's degree in Chemistry, or related discipline, preferred) * Ability to work in the U.S. without restriction or sponsorship Ideal Candidate Qualifications The successful candidate ...

Lab Technician

Columbia, MO · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

HS diploma (Associate's degree in Chemistry, or related discipline, preferred) * Ability to work in the U.S. without restriction or sponsorship Ideal Candidate Qualifications The successful candidate ...

About The Role As a Lab Assistant you will support the Laboratory Sciences personnel in conducting ... Assists Research Associate and Scientist and their daily tasks. * Operates and maintains equipment.

New

... Team Associates on departmental procedures. Serve as a resource for patients, families, and ... Delivering specimens (including blood) to lab and delivering equipment and supplies to other ...

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Lab Associate information

See Columbia, MO salary details

$12

$21

$32

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Columbia, MO is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $23.80 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, MO? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Columbia, MO are:
What cities near Columbia, MO are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Columbia, MO with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Columbia, MO 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 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,274 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Quality Release Lab Manager

Avery Healthcare Group Ltd.

Columbia, MO • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Manager Lab Quality - Production Release Testing

Join us as a Manager Lab Quality - Production Release Testing. The Manager Lab Quality oversees the Quality Control (QC) program for in process manufacturing laboratory operations. This role involves strategic planning and cross functional alignment including actively communicating with operations, engineering and quality assurance functions to obtain manufacturing and operational goals. This position is responsible for ensuring appropriate Quality Control resources and to support Lab Supervisor in scheduling to perform quality control functions. The manager provides structure for the content of QC reports and training, and continuous improvement of lab processes. They serve as an advisor for interpreting QC report content supplementing the Lab Supervisor, as needed.

What you'll do:

  • Oversee the implementation and continual improvement of the QC processes.
  • Serve in a site leadership role through active participation in leadership team meetings.
  • Hire, develop and mentor staff to expand organization's capability and ensure effective management of staff.
  • Define and monitor performance metrics measuring lab quality. Advise staff on areas of improvement, QC focus areas and efficiency in the quality control process.
  • Consult with laboratory management regarding priority of data and reports submitted to QC and assign work, accordingly, ensuring timely delivery of products to the customer.
  • Oversee the effective training of staff within the QC department. Prepare written procedures and training material.
  • May act as on-site subject matter expert for root cause analysis or CAPA.
  • Provide key input and recommendation of data review or investigation process.
  • Serve as lead for client discussions regarding project quality or investigations /nonconformance as they relate to studies

Education & Experience Requirements:

Associate's degree in a scientific or technical field preferred (with strong relevant lab leadership experience) Focus* Technical degree in Manufacturing Technology, Applied Science, or Laboratory Technology.

HS diploma with significant (5+ years) manufacturing lab experience and 3+ years of leadership.

Previous experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job (comparable to 5+ years) or equivalent and relevant combination of education, training, & experience. 3+ year of leadership responsibility

In some cases an equivalency, consisting of a combination of appropriate education, training and/or directly related experience, will be considered sufficient for an individual to meet the requirements of the role.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Excellent knowledge of SOPs to include GLP and GMP practices
  • Excellent knowledge of analytical methodologies, instrumentation and method validation
  • Excellent knowledge with laboratory systems and compliance strategies
  • Working knowledge with computerized databases and data acquisition systems
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Strong program management skills
  • Ability to deal with multiple and changing priorities
  • Strong leadership and time management skills
  • Ability to train and mentor staff

Working Conditions and Environment:

Work is performed in an office environment with exposure to electrical office equipment. Frequently drives to site locations and frequently travels both domestic and international.

Why join us? When you join Thermo Fisher Scientific, you become part of a global team that values passion, innovation, and a commitment to scientific excellence. You'll work in an environment where collaboration and development are part of the everyday experienceand where your contributions truly make a difference.