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Lab Associate Jobs in Litchfield, MN (NOW HIRING)

Technician I, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are ... Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner * Professional demeanor

Technician I, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are ... Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner * Professional demeanor

Technician I, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are ... Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner * Professional demeanor

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 ...

Technician I, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

As a Lab Technician you get to work with an impactful team that plays a vital role in quality ... Good verbal and written communication with the ability to communicate with other associates in a ...

As a Lab Technician you get to work with an impactful team that plays a vital role in quality ... Good verbal and written communication with the ability to communicate with other associates in a ...

Enjoy a rewarding career at CentraCare as a Medical Lab Technician! Laboratory professionals are ... Associate degree from an accredited Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician (CLT / MLT) program or ...

Medical Lab Technician

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$25.20 - $37.81/hr

Enjoy a rewarding career at CentraCare as a Medical Lab Technician! Laboratory professionals are ... Associate degree from an accredited Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician (CLT / MLT) program or ...

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.

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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 Jun 17, 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.

How much does a lab assistant earn?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries.

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.

Do you need qualifications to be a lab assistant?

Lab associates typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant certifications. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important for the role.

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 is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those with specialized skills, advanced certifications, or experience in high-demand fields such as pharmaceutical or clinical research laboratories. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of expertise. Senior or supervisory roles typically offer higher compensation.

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 do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work under supervision in research or clinical labs and may need knowledge of safety protocols and laboratory techniques.
What cities near Litchfield, MN are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Litchfield, MN with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Technician I, Lab

Technician I, Lab

ZEISS

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


ZEISS rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About Us:
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?

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are specified by written and verbal instructions and established practices, the Lab Tech I will perform routine production duties associated with the lens manufacturing processes.

Sound Interesting?
Here's what you'll do:

  • Inventory: Stocking, Auditing, Picking

  • Surfacing: Taping, Blocking, Ink Marking, Alloy Management, Generating, Engraving, De-blocking, Backside Coating, Wash-Up, Sorting, Routing, Tools, Fining, Polishing

  • Coating: Scribing, Washline, Stripping, Sorting, Sandblasting

  • Computer use.

  • Performs routine production duties associated with various aspects of lens production paying close attention to quality, quantity and efficiency. Refer to the Job Matrix for further departmental specifics.

  • Qualifies and inspect product to ensure compliance with CZV specifications and standards.

  • Comply with all safety regulations as well as maintain a clean and safe work environment.

  • Maintain appropriate written and/or computer documentation.

  • Generally assigned some tasks within a specified department but may receive cross training on new tasks.

  • Additional tasks as needed.

  • Participate in meetings to enhance departmental communication and efficiency.

  • May be assigned to different workstations or product lines as production needs require.

  • May train peers.

Do you qualify?

  • HS Diploma or equivalent

  • 0-2 years related experience

  • Reliable, honest, dependable and be able to follow directions either written or verbal

  • Customer Service Mindset

  • Must be able to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time

  • Be able perform repetitive movements with upper and lower extremities.

  • Must be able to regularly lift 10 pounds.

  • Must be able to excerpt up to 20 PSI with hands

  • Requires ability to sustain lengthy periods of visual concentration and good hand/eye/foot coordination.

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-task production environment. Have the ability to focus for long periods of time

  • Have an eye for attention to detail and symmetry

  • Have solid dexterity and mechanical skills

  • Patience to fully see the task through is a must

  • Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner

  • Professional demeanor

  • General office/computer experience

The hourly pay range for this position is $17.50 - $22.00.

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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