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Lab Associate Jobs in Independence, MO (NOW HIRING)

Work closely and communicate with other lab associates to complete daily activities efficiently * Other their duties as assigned by management * Level II - Fully meets the qualifications of Level I ...

Work closely and communicate with other lab associates to complete daily activities efficiently * Other their duties as assigned by management * Level II - Fully meets the qualifications of Level I ...

Work closely and communicate with other lab associates to complete daily activities efficiently * Other their duties as assigned by management * Level II - Fully meets the qualifications of Level I ...

Lab Technician

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$23/hr

The Lab Technician will follow all laboratory policies and procedures while maintaining accurate ... Associate's degree in science or related discipline * 2+ years of work experience in a laboratory ...

Lab Technician

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$23/hr

The Lab Technician will follow all laboratory policies and procedures while maintaining accurate ... Associate's degree in science or related discipline * 2+ years of work experience in a laboratory ...

Lab Technician

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$23/hr

The Lab Technician will follow all laboratory policies and procedures while maintaining accurate ... Associate's degree in science or related discipline * 2+ years of work experience in a laboratory ...

Lab Technician 2 Compensation: $20.00 per hour Summary Responsible for preserving, preparing ... Associates degree preferred; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

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Lab Associate information

See Independence, MO salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Independence, MO is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $22.79 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 Independence, MO?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Independence, MO are:

What cities near Independence, MO are hiring for Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near Independence, MO with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Independence, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,420 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Lab Research Associate III

Kansas City, MO • On-site

Children's Mercy KC
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

$38.06/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Children's Mercy Kansas City rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Thanks for your interest in Children's Mercy!

Do you envision finding a meaningful role with an inclusive and compassionate team? At Children's Mercy, we believe in making a difference in the lives of all children and shining a light of hope to the patients and families we serve. Our employees make the difference, which is why we have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top pediatric hospital, for eleven consecutive years.

Children's Mercy is in the heart of Kansas City - a metro abounding in cultural experiences, vibrant communities and thriving businesses. This is where our patients and families live, work and play. This is a community that has embraced our hospital and we strive to say thanks by giving back. As a leader in children's health, we engage in meaningful programs and partnerships throughout the region so that we can improve the lives of children beyond the walls of our hospital.

Overview

The Lab Research Associate III is designed to facilitate the research for faculty investigators. The position is necessary to maintain and enhance overall research productivity and support for Division faculty. The position requires that the candidate be able to, without considerable direction, initiate and troubleshoot laboratory research efforts, collect and analyze data, and synthesize findings in the form of progress reports, presentations, and draft manuscripts. Candidates are expected to have the skills necessary to analyze and synthesize currently published scientific works in support of proposed laboratory experiments and, by extension, grant submissions.

At Children's Mercy, we are committed to ensuring that everyone feels welcomed within our walls. A successful candidate for this position will join us as we strive to create a workplace that reflects the community we serve, as well as our core values of kindness, curiosity, inclusion, team and integrity.

Additionally, it's important to us that we remain transparent with all potential job candidates. Because we value the safety of the patients and families we serve, as well as the Children's Mercy staff, we want to let you know that the seasonal influenza vaccine is a condition of employment for all employees in our organization. New employees must be willing to be vaccinated if found non-immune to measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) and chicken pox (varicella) and/or without evidence of tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccination since 2005. If you are selected for this position, you will be asked to supply your immunization records as proof of vaccination. If you and have any concerns about receiving these vaccines, medical and/or religious exemptions can be further discussed with Human Resources.Responsibilities
  • Conduct laboratory procedures and experiments without considerable direction. Develop, optimize, and master multiple techniques in the laboratory and maintain the entire research environment.
  • Report research results.
  • Assist and train Research Scientists, Research Assistants, Research Associates, students, and trainees.
Qualifications
  • Master's Degree biological sciences or related degree and 7 or more years experience research lab experience or
  • Bachelor's Degree biological sciences or related degree and 9 years research lab experience
Benefits at Children's Mercy

The benefits plans at Children's Mercy are one of many reasons we are recognized as one of the best places to work in Kansas City. Our plans are designed to meet the changing needs of our employees and their families.

Learn more about Children's Mercy benefits. Starting Pay

Our pay ranges are market competitive. The pay range for this job begins at $38.06/hr, but your offer will be determined based on your education and experience.

Remote Work/Work from Home

This position is not eligible to work remotely, which means that the person hired will be required to work onsite at one of our Children's Mercy locations and may not work from home.

EEO Employer/Disabled/Vet

Children's Mercy hires individuals based on their job skills, expertise and ability to maintain professional relationships with fellow employees, patients, parents and visitors. A personal interview, formal education and training, previous work experience, references and a criminal background investigation are all factors used to select the best candidates. The hospital does not discriminate against prospective or current employees based on the race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, creed, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ancestry or veteran status. A drug screen will be performed upon hire. Children's Mercy is smoke and tobacco free.

CM is committed to creating a workforce that supports the diverse backgrounds of our patients and families. We know that our greatest strengths come from the people who make up our team, so we hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it's the right thing to do, but because it makes our hospital stronger and our patient care more compassionate.

If you share our values and our enthusiasm for service, you will find a home at CM. In recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring, including education, ideas, culture, and beliefs.

Employment Type: OTHER

What Children's Mercy Kansas City employees say

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About Children's Mercy KC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Children’s Mercy KC is a revered health care institution based in Kansas City, MO, US. Known to be one of the top pediatric medical centers in the United States, the establishment is dedicated to offering holistic medical care, pioneering research, and comprehensive education to enhance the well-being of children. Originally founded in 1897 by Alice Berry Graham and her sister, Katharine Berry Richardson, Children's Mercy has since then grown into a multifaceted institution providing world-class pediatric health services.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1897