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Lab Associate Jobs in Lancaster, PA (NOW HIRING)

Preferred associate's or bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, or a related scientific field ... The Lab Technician will work with dairy testing instruments and laboratory information systems, and ...

PeopleShare is HIRING IMMEDIATELY for a Quality Lab Tech near Leola, PA!*** Apply today contact ... associates, material handler specialists, material handling experts, machinists, machine ...

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Lab Associate information

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$12

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$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Lancaster, PA is $21.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $24.28 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 Lancaster, PA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Lancaster, PA are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Associate jobs in Lancaster, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Associate jobs in Lancaster, PA are:
What cities near Lancaster, PA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Lancaster, PA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Technical Lab Associate - Cytology

Technical Lab Associate - Cytology

Penn State Health

Hershey, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Penn State Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 246 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Penn State Health - Hershey Medical Center
Location: US:PA: Hershey
Work Type: Full Time
FTE: 1.00
Shift: Day
Hours: 7:00a - 3:30p
Recruiter Contact: Hector Diaz at hdiaz1@pennstatehealth.psu.edu
SUMMARY OF POSITION:
Responsible for receiving laboratory specimens, ensuring specimen identity and acceptability; entering orders for laboratory testing into the Lab Information System; and entering patient demographic and insurance information into the patient registration system. Prepares specimens for analysis. Answers telephone and provides information related to specimen requirements, test availability, specimen testing status; provides laboratory results. Prepares specimens for referral to outside reference laboratories and insures that all storage requirements are met.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S):
  • High School Diploma or equivalent education required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S):
  • Six (6) months job related experience preferred

WHY PENN STATE HEALTH?
Penn State Health offers exceptional opportunities to learn and grow, exposure to a wide patient population, and the ability to provide individualized, innovative, and specialized care to patients in the community.
Penn State Health offers an exceptional benefits package including medical, dental and vision with no waiting period as well as a Total Rewards Program that highlights a few of the many additional offerings below:
  • Be Well with Employee Wellness Programs, and Fitness Discounts (University Fitness Center, Peloton).
  • Be Balanced with Generous Paid Time Off, Personal Time, and Paid Parental Leave.
  • Be Secured with Retirement, Extended Illness Bank, Life Insurance, and Identity Theft Protection.
  • Be Rewarded with Competitive Pay, Tuition Reimbursement, and PAWS UP employee recognition program.
  • Be Supported by the HR Solution Center, Learning and Organizational Development and Virtual Benefits Orientation, Employee Exclusive Concierge Service for scheduling.

WHY PENN STATE HEALTH MILTON HERSHEY MEDICAL CENTER?
Penn State Hershey Medical Center is Central Pennsylvania's only Academic Medical Center, Level 1 Regional Adult and Pediatric Trauma Center, and Tertiary Care Provider. As a four-time Magnet-designated hospital, Hershey Medical Center values the hard work and dedication that our employees exhibit every day. Through our core values of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork, and Excellence, our employees are a team committed to compassionate care for our diverse patient population, our community and each other. As a valued team member, we promote continued professional development, specialty certification, continuing education, and career growth.
YOU TAKE CARE OF THEM. WE'LL TAKE CARE OF YOU. State-of-the-art equipment, endless learning, and a culture of excellence - that's Penn State Health. But what makes our healthcare award-winning? That's all you.
This job posting is a general outline of duties performed and is not to be misconstrued as encompassing all duties performed within the position. Eligibility for shift differential pay based on the terms outlined in company policy or union contract. All individuals (including current employees) selected for a position will undergo a background check appropriate for the position's responsibilities.
Penn State Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected class including disability or veteran status. Penn State Health's policies and objectives are in direct compliance with all federal and state constitutional provisions, laws, regulations, guidelines, and executive orders that prohibit or outlaw discrimination.
Union: Non Bargained

What Penn State Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

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About Penn State Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Penn State Health is one of the leading teaching and research hospitals in the country. It is a multi-hospital health system, Academic Medical Center and Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma center serving patients and communities across Central Pennsylvania. The system includes Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State Children's Hospital, and Penn State Cancer Institute in scenic Hershey, PA. It also includes Penn State Health Saint Joseph's Medical Center in Reading, PA, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill, PA, and Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center in Enola, PA. Penn State Health shares an integrated strategic plan and operations with Penn State College of Medicine.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Hershey, PA, US

Year founded

1963

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