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Lab Associate Jobs in Northfield, MN (NOW HIRING)

Allina Health

Medical Lab Technician

Shakopee, MN

$28.53 - $37.81/hr

June 22, 2026 Department: 72466301 St Francis Lab Shift: Day/Evening (United States of America ... Associate's or Vocational degree in a related laboratory field including clinical rotations or ...

Allina Health

Medical Lab Technician

Hastings, MN · On-site

$27.65 - $37.90/hr

June 17, 2026 Department: 72426301 Regina Lab Shift: Day/Evening/Night (United States of America ... Associate's or Vocational degree in a related laboratory field including clinical rotations or ...

Allina Health

Medical Lab Technician

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$28.53 - $37.81/hr

June 22, 2026 Department: 72466301 St Francis Lab Shift: Day/Evening (United States of America ... Associate's or Vocational degree in a related laboratory field including clinical rotations or ...

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Red Wing, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

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

Shopko Optical

Optical Sales Associate

Red Wing, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

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

Shopko Optical

PT Optical Sales Associate

Red Wing, MN · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

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

Shopko Optical

PT Optical Sales Associate

Faribault, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

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

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All JobsLab Associate JobsLab Associate Jobs in Northfield, MN

Lab Associate information

See Northfield, MN salary details

$13

$23

$35

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Northfield, MN is $23.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $26.30 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 Northfield, MN? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Northfield, MN are:
What cities near Northfield, MN are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Northfield, MN with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Medical Lab Technician

Medical Lab Technician

Allina Health

Shakopee, MN

$28.53 - $37.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 hours ago

Allina Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 268 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 889 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Location Address:

1455 Saint Francis Ave Shakopee, MN 55379-3374

Date Posted:

June 22, 2026

Department:

72466301 St Francis Lab

Shift:

Day/Evening (United States of America)

Shift Length:

8 hour shift

Hours Per Week:

40

Union Contract:

SEIU-8-St Francis Technical-TSF

Weekend Rotation:

Every Other

Job Summary:

Join Our Team as a Medical Laboratory Professional!
Step into a diverse, multicultural lab environment where your work directly impacts patient care. As a key member of our fast-paced healthcare team, you'll use the latest technology to help process millions of tests annually. We're driven by a passion for innovation, teamwork, and creating meaningful impact.

Key Position Details:

  • 1.0 FTE (80 hours per two-week pay period)

  • 8 hour day and evening shifts, variable start times based on the needs of the department

  • Every other weekend rotation, weekends include both Sat & Sun

Job Description:

Performs routine medical laboratory testing and is trained in one or more of the following areas of the laboratory: reception/registration, phlebotomy, specimen collection/processing, and analytical testing departments. May perform manual and automated waived, moderate, and high complexity testing. May serve as a trainer for students and new employees in work areas.
Principle Responsibilities

  • Performs routine and complex laboratory procedures.
    • Follows all federal regulations including CAP, OSHA, COLA, CLIA, and HIPAA.
  • Customer service and patient order management.
    • Evaluates and manages patient orders for completeness and follows up as needed.
    • Performs scheduling, ordering, and releasing patient's orders in the electronic medical record.
  • Collection and processing of specimens following standardized system protocols.
    • Reviews orders, verifies patient identification and uses appropriate collection methods to obtain samples for testing.
  • Maintains Education, Regulatory, and Safety measures
    • Participates in the training of employees and students.
  • CLIA Defined Responsibilities:
    • 493.1425 Standard; Testing personnel responsibilities. Moderate complexity.
    • 493.1495 Standard; Testing personnel responsibilities.
  • Participates in departmental or system wide meetings, projects, or committees as required.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Required Qualifications

  • Associate's or Vocational degree in a related laboratory field including clinical rotations or equivalent routes


Preferred Qualifications

  • Laboratory or Medical Laboratory experience


Licenses/Certifications

  • ASCP or AMT laboratory certification preferred. If not currently certified, must obtain certification within 180 days of hire


Physical Demands

  • Light Work:
  • Lifting weight up to 20 lbs. occasionally, up to 10 lbs. frequently

Pay Range

Pay Range: $28.53 to $37.81 per hourThe pay described reflects the base hourly pay range. Your starting rate would depend on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, your experience, education, and the union agreement (if applicable). Shift, weekend and/or other differentials may be available to increase your pay rate for certain shifts or work.

Benefit Summary

Allina Health believes the best way to provide safe and compassionate care for our patients is by nurturing the passion of those who care for them. That's why we devote extraordinary resources to help you grow and thrive - not only as a professional but also as a whole person. When you join our team, you have access to a wealth of valuable employee benefits that support the total well-being - mind, body, spirit and community - of you and your family members.

Allina Health is all in on your well-being. Because well-being means something different to everyone, our award-winning program provides you with the resources you need to help you navigate your personal journey. This includes well-being dollars, dedicated well-being navigators, and many programs, activities, articles, videos, personal coaching and tools to support you on your journey.

In addition, Allina Health offers employee resources groups (ERGs) -- voluntary, employee-led groups that serve as a resource for members and organizations by fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with the organization's mission, values, goals, business practices, and objectives. Allina Health also engages employees in various community involvement and volunteering events.

Benefits include:

  • Medical/Dental

  • PTO/Time Away

  • Retirement Savings Plans

  • Life Insurance

  • Short-term/Long-term Disability

  • Voluntary Benefits (vision, legal, critical illness)

  • Tuition Reimbursement or Continuing Medical Education as applicable

  • Student Loan Support Benefits to navigate the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

  • Allina Health is a 501(c)(3) eligible employer

*Benefit eligibility/offerings are determined by FTE and if you are represented by a union.

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