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Lab Associate Jobs in Litchfield, MN (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$75K - $118K/yr

The Lab Manager will be accountable for service, quality, cost management, and leadership of all ... Conduct activities designed to grow the core knowledge of associates working toward defect ...

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in St. Cloud West ... Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Optical Sales Associate

Willmar, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Willmar, MN. On ... Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Shopko Optical is seeking a part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Hutchinson, MN ... Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Shopko Optical is seeking a Part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in St Cloud, MN. On ... Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Optical Sales Associate

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in St Cloud, MN. On ... Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

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Lab Associate information

See Litchfield, MN salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Litchfield, MN is $21.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $24.18 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 cities near Litchfield, MN are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Litchfield, MN with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Manager, Lab

Manager, Lab

ZEISS

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

$75K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


ZEISS rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 433 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

How many companies can say they've been in business for over 177 years?

Here at ZEISS, we certainly can! As the pioneers of science, ZEISS handles the everchanging environments in a fast-paced world, meeting it with cutting edge of technologies and continuous advancements. ZEISS believes that innovation and technology are the key to a sustainable future and solutions for global change. We have a diverse range of portfolios throughout the ZEISS family in segments like, Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology, Consumer Markets and Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology. We are a global company with over 42,000 employees and have over 4,000 in the US and Canada alone! Make a difference, come join the team!

What's the role?

The Lab Manager will be accountable for service, quality, cost management, and leadership of all functions within assigned cut, edge and fit (CEF) lab. They receive assignments in the form of objectives with goals and the process by which to meet goals. Typically, multi-functional and is involved in managing managers/supervisors as well as direct hiring, termination, job duties and discipline of exempt and non-exempt employees according to policies and management guidelines. Administers company policies that directly affect subordinate employees. Supervises all functions including Engineering, Maintenance, etc., and collaborates closely with other Carl Zeiss Vision labs for optimum service.

Sound Interesting? Here's what you'll do:
  • Increase the profitability of the laboratory through KPI's including safety, quality, delivery, and cost initiatives.
  • Develop and maintain a strong leadership team.
  • Strengthen and maintain the company's image and reputation - drive company initiatives.
  • Monitor and improve on industry trends related to lab operations.
  • Uphold safety standards as defined by the company, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Lead and support efforts related to the onsite safety committee.
  • Utilize a variety of tools to track, solve and maintain positive KPI's (key performance indicators).
  • Conduct activities designed to grow the core knowledge of associates working toward defect reduction.
  • Embrace outside assistance from subject matter experts as needed.
  • Drive and sustain process improvements.
  • Build a culture that recognizes that customers have alternative choices to our products and services.
  • Work directly with customers, sales, marketing and other departments to ensure our goals align.
  • Plan, direct and manage daily activities related to WIP (work in process) including appropriate staffing levels.
  • Monitor spending at the lab level and drive cost saving measures.
  • Focus operating efforts against measurable performance requirements and financial targets.
  • Monitor capacity requirements to achieve organizational goals.
  • Drive special projects for the lab and company.

Do you qualify?

  • Follows safety standards and reports any safety concerns to leadership.
  • 7-10 years' overall experience in ophthalmic, medical device, wholesale product, manufacturing or related field required
  • Previous management experience
  • Track record exceeding customer expectations
  • Knowledge of routing/tracking work within a network
  • Managerial courage to accept constructive feedback and react appropriately
  • Effective communication skills both verbal and written
  • Ability to develop line leaders to meet daily tasks through exceptional leadership and fostering a positive learning environment
  • Strong working application of Microsoft Office
  • Proven track record of rational / analytical approach to complex problems
  • Ability to interpret and share data at various levels within the organization
  • Provide accountability to achieving goals
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Ability to focus for long periods of time, visual acuity (natural or corrected) to 20/20
  • Have attention to detail and symmetry
  • Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner
  • Professional demeanor

The annual pay range for this position is $75,000 - $118,000.

The pay offered for this role may be influenced by factors such as job location, scope of role, qualifications, education, experience, & complexity/specialization/scarcity of talent.

This position is also eligible for a performance bonus or sales commissions.

ZEISS also offers robust benefits, including medical plans, retirement savings plan and paid time off.

Your ZEISS Recruiting Team:

Christina Choing

Zeiss provides Equal Employment Opportunity without unlawful regard to an Applicants race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military or veteran status, citizen status, sexual orientation, pregnancy (includes childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical condition), genetic predisposition, carrier status, gender expression or identity, including transgender identity, or any other class or characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law of the employee (or the people with whom the employee associates, including relatives and friends).


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