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Lab Associate Jobs in Elizabeth, NJ (NOW HIRING)

R&D Lab Technician

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description The R&D Lab Technician is a detail-oriented quality focused ... Must be pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree in food science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a ...

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Denville, NJ · On-site

$2.2K - $2.9K/wk

Cath Lab Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 07/25/2026 * Duration ... of our associates.Join our team as a traveling Physical Therapist where you'll help patients ...

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Lab Associate information

See Elizabeth, NJ salary details

$12

$22

$34

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Elizabeth, NJ is $22.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Associate, and why are they important?

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 Lab Associates?

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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers, Principal Investigators, or specialized research scientists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, resulting in higher compensation compared to entry-level lab associate roles.

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's degree or higher in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or laboratory technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory environments, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the industry. Their role supports research, quality control, or diagnostic processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Elizabeth, NJ? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Elizabeth, NJ are:
What cities near Elizabeth, NJ are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Elizabeth, NJ with the most Lab Associate job openings:

$50K - $55K/yr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description

The R&D Lab Technician is a detail-oriented quality focused individual who will support the Food Scientists within the R&D Department at New Classic Cooking. This role will  work to assist the scientists as well as organize the lab ingredients to set the team up for success.  


Key Responsibilities:

 ? Organize, package, and label lab ingredients. Coordinate the transfer of lab ingredients  from the plant in Avenel to the lab in Piscataway. 

 ? Keep inventory of lab ingredients and sample ingredients.  

? Support new product testing and ingredient evaluations in conjunction with scientists on  the team by assisting with recipe scaling.  

? Enhance our technical body of knowledge by performing routine tests such as pH, water  activity, and brix readings. 

 ? Calibrate, clean, and maintain laboratory instruments. 

 ? Support shelf-life testing by coordinating the samples with QA, setting up shelf-life  tastings, and accurately recording findings in our database. 

 ? Participate in innovation sessions and ongoing work to build and strengthen pipelines.  

? Assist in preparing sales samples for customer meetings including properly packaging  and labelling the samples. 

 ? Follow SQF guidelines and Food Safety Standards when working in the lab and the  production environment.  

? Collaborate with QA on SQF initiatives as needed. 

 ? Perform operational tasks and other projects and activities as needed.  

Requirements

 Requirements: 

? Must be pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree in food science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related field.

 ? Experience in a laboratory or food manufacturing environment preferred. 

? Strong understanding of food safety practices.

 ? Ability to follow SOPs, recipe instructions, and maintain accurate records. 

? Excellent communication and documentation skills 

? Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) language skills a plusÂ