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Lab Associate Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Cath Lab RN $2125 /Weekly Gross**Estimated pay package. Does not include taxes, insurance, or other ... Either an Associate of Science or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ASN or BSN) * Valid SC license A ...

External candidates are required to complete Path and Lab ICCE Career Ladder requirements within 90 days in position. * Additional Additional Education: Associates degree in Medical Laboratory ...

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Lab Associate information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Columbia, SC is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $20.43 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 Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Columbia, SC 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 $37,991 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Technician II- PRN

Medical University of South Carolina

Columbia, SC โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Description Summary

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) support high quality laboratory testing in a clinical laboratory. MLTs prepare specimens for testing, perform routine laboratory tests, perform quality control and maintenance procedures, recognize computer data problems, troubleshoot laboratory instruments, communicate technical information to medical and lay persons, assist with training laboratory personnel in routine procedures, participate in continuing education, recognize normal and abnormal values, and model Standards of Behavior in daily interactions and activities. (MLT I <1 year experience and MLT II >1 year experience)

Entity

Medical University Hospital Authority (MUHA)

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

PRN

Cost Center

CC000866 COL - Lab (DMC)

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

Pay Grade

Health-24

Scheduled Weekly Hours

12

Work Shift

Job Description


Job Description

Job Requirements:
1.
Performs sample assessment, receiving, accessioning, processing, and testing to support high quality laboratory patient results, as well as supply/stock maintenance activities to support testing activities (60%)
Prepares specimens for testing
Performs positive patient identification using two identifiers
Evaluates specimen acceptability
Performs specimen receipt in electronic laboratory computer system and middleware
Performs correct labeling practices
Performs order evaluation and assessment using electronic laboratory computer system
Performs routine laboratory testing using both automated and non-automated methods using established procedures
Recognizes normal and abnormal laboratory values and completes all warranted notifications
Recognizes computer data problems and troubleshoots issues
Communicates technical testing information to medical and lay persons using Standards of Behaviors
Performs appropriate specimen processing, testing, and interpretation based on sample type and test
Creates and reviews test/specimen pending worklists
Proficient in electronic laboratory computer system and departmental middleware system(s)
Notifies/Documents critical test results using established policies
Ensures assigned benches are stocked accordingly
Ensure new lots/shipment reagents are quality controlled in accordance with manufacturers' procedures and established laboratory protocols
Ensures reagents are ordered at designated par levels
Supports test and instrument validation activities
Other duties as assigned
2.
Performs quality control testing, instrument maintenance, and competency related activities (20%)
QC testing is performed and documented correctly, completely and in a timely manner
QC is performed and verified prior to reporting patient results
Troubleshoots equipment, instruments and results effectively
Documents equipment problems, resolutions on equipment tracking logs/discrepancy form, and communicates to team appropriately
Process improvement activities are performed and documented
Follows all procedures and policies as written and approved
Performs and documents instrument maintenance per manufacturer instructions
Completes procedure and policy sign off by deadlines using MediaLab
Completes competency and competency documentation by deadlines using MediaLab
3.
Actively participates in a setting conducive to teaching health care practitioners in Laboratory Services as assigned (10%)
Assists in the orientation & training of new staff, students and residents as assigned and provides timely documentation and/or feedback as appropriate
Ensures positive experiences (clinical as well as non-clinical) for students, residents and health care practitioners
Participate in continuing education
Models Standards of Behavior in daily interactions
4.
Additional Miscellaneous Tasks
a.
Completes additional tasks as assigned by the Director, Manager, Coordinator or Team Leader in a timely manner (10%)

MLT II:
o
Associates degree in Medical Laboratory Technology
o
Certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician by ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) or equivalent
o
Greater than one year of clinical experience

Additional Job Description

Additional Job Description

Education: Associates degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. Experience: At least one year of clinical experience. Certification: Certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician by ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) or equivalent.NOTE: This is a Career Ladder Position. Internal candidates are required to submit and meet Path and Lab ICCE Career Ladder requirements. External candidates are required to complete Path and Lab ICCE Career Ladder requirements within 90 days in position.

Additional Job Description

Education: Associates degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. Experience: At least one year of clinical experience. Certification: Certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician by ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) or equivalent.NOTE: This is a Career Ladder Position. Internal candidates are required to submit and meet Path and Lab ICCE Career Ladder requirements. External candidates are required to complete Path and Lab ICCE Career Ladder requirements within 90 days in position.

If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us!

The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need.

Medical University of South Carolina participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For further information about the E-Verify program, please click here: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/employees