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Lab Associate Jobs in Ocala, FL (NOW HIRING)

Job Overview The Cardiovascular Technologist (CVT) in the Cath Lab operates under the guidance of ... Associate's Degree in Cardiovascular Technology * OR Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology

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Lab Associate information

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$11

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$31

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Ocala, FL is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $23.22 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 Ocala, FL? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Ocala, FL are:
What cities near Ocala, FL are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Ocala, FL with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Ocala, FL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,240 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Medical Lab Technician

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


HCA Florida Healthcare rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 476 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

670th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital 1431 SW 1st Ave Ocala, FL 28000

Do you want to join an organization that invests in you as a Medical Lab Technician? At HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, you come first. HCA Healthcare has committed up to $300 million in programs to support our incredible team members over the course of three years.

Seeking a Medical Laboratory Technician / Medical Lab Technician / MLT to provide expertise and champion results. We are an amazing team that works hard to support each other and are seeking a phenomenal addition like you who feels the patient experience is as meaningful as we do.  

What you will do in this role:

  • Perform accurate and timely laboratory testing  
  • Seek guidance from medical technologists, supervisors, department head, and medical director in the review and interpretation of clinical laboratory data  
  • Complete all required records/documentation pertaining to patient results  
  • Perform stat procedures, timed studies, and routine tests within established turnaround time targets  
  • Review pending logs (OSR) and result logs; resolve any outstanding workload or communicates to staff relief  
  • Perform quality control procedures per protocol and completes necessary documentation  
  • Take pertinent corrective action when the patient, control, standard, calibration and/or proficiency results are not within appropriate guidelines  
  • Assist supervisor in meeting department regulatory agency requirements (CAP, etc.)  

  What Qualifications you will need:

  • A 2-Year/Associate Degree in Science is required  
  • A State of Florida Technician License OR the ability to obtain a license during the interview process  
  • ASCP or similar certification is very helpful  
 Benefits

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, offers a total rewards package that supports the health, life, career and retirement of our colleagues. The available plans and programs include:

  • Comprehensive benefits for medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, behavioral health and telemedicine services
  • Wellbeing support, including free counseling and referral services
  • Time away from work programs for paid time off, paid family leave, long- and short-term disability coverage and leaves of absence
  • Savings and retirement resources, including a 401(k) Plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay (based on years of service), Employee Stock Purchase Plan, flexible spending accounts, preferred banking partnerships, retirement readiness tools, rollover support and financial wellbeing counseling
  • Education support through tuition assistance, student loan assistance, certification support, dependent scholarships and a partnership with Galen College of Nursing
  • Additional benefits for fertility and family building, adoption assistance, life insurance, supplemental health protection plans, auto and home insurance, legal counseling, identity theft protection and consumer discounts

Learn more about Employee Benefits

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location.

HCA Healthcare Laboratory Services is a full-service provider of clinical laboratory and anatomic pathology services, providing hospitals, physicians, and clients with timely diagnostic information for patient care. Our infrastructure includes a fully automated esoteric core laboratory in Fort Lauderdale, a histology and microbiology operation in Largo, Florida, and a network of hospital-based rapid-response laboratories present in four HCA Healthcare divisions in Florida. Our core laboratories support more than 250 acute and rehab hospitals, physician practices, surgery centers, and commercial accounts.

HCA Healthcare has been recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute more than ten times. In recent years, HCA Healthcare spent an estimated $3.7 billion in costs for the delivery of charitable care, uninsured discounts, and other uncompensated expenses.


"Good people beget good people."- Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr.
HCA Healthcare Co-Founder

We are a family 270,000 dedicated professionals! Our Talent Acquisition team is reviewing applications for our Medical Lab Technician opening. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews. Submit your resume today to join our community of caring!

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.


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