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Lab Associate Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Associate information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$11

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$31

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Decatur, AL is $20.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $23.41 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 Decatur, AL?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,616 per year, or $21 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

Discovery Life Sciences
Biotechnology Research and Developmentย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

About Discovery Life Sciences:

Discovery Life Sciences is a trusted provider of genomic, bioanalytic and biospecimen services to hundreds of customers across the United States and around the world. Discovery's expertise focuses on high-throughput sequencing workflow optimization and developing cutting-edge analytical pipelines. Leading biopharma, diagnostic and academic institutions trust us to quickly deliver high-quality biospecimens and reliable, reproducible biomarker data, so they can outpace their competition and push the leading edge of innovation using our Science at your Service TM business model.

Position Summary:

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist will operate in the Discovery Life Sciences Genomics Laboratory, performing an array of genomics testing including pre-analytical and analytical workflows using various sample types to include but not limited to tissues, oral and nasal swabs, blood, urine and plasma. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist will contribute to Discovery's mission by ensuring consistency of practices based on standard operating procedures and is expected to work in a safe manner adhering to all company, state and federal regulatory requirements.

Must-Have Qualifications (Education, Skills, Experience):

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in medical technology or laboratory science from an accredited institution - OR -
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in one of the chemical, physical, or biological sciences from an accredited institution and at least 6 months of acceptable supervised experience and/or relevant training; OR Associateโ€™s degree with equivalent experience and/or relevant training
  • 1-2 years of clinical laboratory experience
  • Knowledge of local, state and federal regulations to include but not limited to GCP/GCLP, 21 CFR Part 11, CLIA/CAP EH&S and HIPPA
  • Ability to follow instructions and review laboratory data for quality and consistency
  • Ability to execute and prioritize tasks and drive results with a high focus on quality within the expected timeframe
  • Strong computer, organizational, and time management skills
  • Automation experience desired
  • Proficiency with basic lab functions such as pipetting and basic laboratory math (conversions and calculations)

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Execute job functions using independent judgement with minimal supervision
    • Perform pre-analytical and analytical testing procedures in accordance with the laboratory's standard operating procedures to include:
      • Specimen handling and processing
      • Quality Control
      • Preparation and aliquoting of reagents
      • Test analysis to include documentation and data reporting
      • Reporting and maintaining records of all lab tests and procedures
    • Maintaining records that demonstrate proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient samples
    • Adhere to the Laboratory's quality control policies and procedures including executing and documenting all:
      • Quality Control activities
      • Instrument and Procedural calibrations and verifications
      • Equipment maintenance and preventative maintenance
    • Follow the Laboratory's established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable ranges of performance
    • Identify and document problems that may adversely affect test performance, notifying the supervisor or director
    • Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications
    • Operation of basic and specialized laboratory equipment
    • Review, interpret, and monitor test data as required
    • Participate in activities to maintain laboratory operations to include but not limited to:
      • Inventory management
      • Cleaning activities (including execution documentation)
      • Equipment maintenance activities (including execution documentation)
      • Process improvement initiatives
    • Execute and record laboratory reagent and equipment qualifications
    • Report all concerns of quality and/or safety to Laboratory Management or the Safety Officer
    • Communicate effectively, consistently and clearly with Laboratory Management, cross-functional teams/departments and other laboratory staff
    • Perform basic assay and/or equipment troubleshooting that adversely impacts test performance, reporting any issues to Laboratory Management
    • Can execute all workflow activities in at least 1 of the 5 laboratory workflows
    • Ensure compliance with CLIA, CAP, and other relevant regulatory

      Compensation and Benefits:

      Discovery Life Sciences is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices, and we strive to provide employees with total compensation packages that are market competitive. The exact base pay rate offered for this role will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience.

      Your annual salary is only one part of your total compensation package. Other benefits:

      • Competitive salary and benefits package options including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability which start on your first day of employment!
      • 401(k) match program which starts on your first day of employment
      • Time away from work (Generous vacation and paid time off, paid parental leave, paid family leave, etc.)
      • Professional development opportunities and reimbursement for relevant certifications.
      • Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity
      • Team-building activities and social events
      • Employee Referral Program and Colleague Recognition Program

      Location and work hours:

      • Onsite โ€“ Huntsville, AL
      • Monday โ€“ Friday 8am โ€“ 5pm local time
      • Less than 5% domestic or international travel required for mandatory site meetings and trainings

      We are actively seeking motivated, dedicated individuals like you to join our thriving organization. As a leader in our industry, we offer unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and success.

      The Discovery Life Sciences Talent Acquisition team proudly manages and represents all Discovery recruitment activities. We respectfully request that third party staffing agencies refrain from submitting candidates or soliciting meetings to discuss recruiting services.

      We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorships of any applicant work visas at this time.

      ย 
      Apply Now to join our team!
      Visit dls.com/careers for more details.