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Lab Associate Jobs in Plainfield, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Associates degree with 1+ years' experience in a customer facing role within a scientific ... g., lab coat, safety glasses, etc.) in laboratory. * Job pace may be fast and job completion ...

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Montclair, NJ · On-site

$2.3K - $3.1K/wk

Cath Lab Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 09/08/2026 * Duration ... We accomplish this through our total dedication to our clients and field associates, our over 15 ...

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Lab Associate information

See Plainfield, NJ salary details

$13

$22

$35

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Plainfield, NJ is $22.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab associate?

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 is a lab associate?

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Plainfield, NJ? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Plainfield, NJ are:
What cities near Plainfield, NJ are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Plainfield, NJ with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Lab Support Coordinator

PerkinElmer

Rahway, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


PerkinElmer rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

When joining PerkinElmer, you select an experienced and trusted leader in scientific solutions, with the support of a global service network and distribution centers, providing the right solution, at the right time, to meet critical customer needs. With over an 80+ year legacy of advancing science and a mission of innovating for a healthier world, our dedicated team collaborates closely with commercial, government, academic and healthcare customers to deliver our broad portfolio of analytical solutions, and OneSource services.
Job Title
Lab Support Coordinator
Location(s)
Merck (Rahway) - Customer Site NJ
Job Description
Job Responsibilities
Escorting of third party service personnel:
  • Meet OEM or TPV service engineers at customer points of entry, confirm reason for site visit.
  • Verify required customer health and safety requirements for site entry have been completed by engineer.
  • Escort the engineer to the equipment location and hand off to customer equipment owner/user.
  • Upon completion of the service event, escort the engineer back to the customer entry point and obtain a copy of the service report and work order status prior to engineer departure.

Communication:
  • Ability to articulate with technically oriented people, quickly establish rapport, gain their confidence, respect and trust.
  • Communicate timely program information internally discuss troubleshooting/repair situations with customers, in a professional, cost-effective manner, utilizing poise, tact and diplomacy to obtain cooperation and results.
  • Escalate problems to manager or the appropriate program leader or customer program contact for strategy development and participation as appropriate.
  • Follow up to ensure that all questions/requests/customer commitments are responded to or resolved to the customer's satisfaction.

Instrument Inventory Integrity:
  • Conduct instrument inventory sweeps of all instruments on an as-needed basis.
  • Conduct spot checks of instrument inventory.
  • Identify changes to instrument inventory, work with department staff and customers to document changes and compile change control documentation (ex.: instrument manufacturer, model, serial number, location, owner, etc.).
  • Provide timely information to Customer Operations Team, through the change control process, to update the SAP database due to instrument inventory changes (ARC process)
  • Conduct additional lab support activities as agreed upon by departmental leadership and PKI.

  • Maintain training and compliance in areas of health and safety, security, environmental and operational aspects of daily activities in the working environment.

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities of this job at any time.
Critical Skills:
  • Ability to multi-task and work under pressure to balance conflicting deadlines
  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
  • Technical problem-solving skills and attention to details
  • Excellent customer service skills complimented by an ability to listen to and interpret client requests
  • Initiative driven with proactive skill set to improve processes
  • Ability to read and interpret chemical labeling and hazardous signage
  • Intermediate MS Office Skills: Outlook, PowerPoint, Word.
  • Ability to be pro-active, independent, and detail-oriented

Basic Qualifications:
  • Associates degree with 1+ years' experience in a customer facing role within a scientific environment OR
  • High School Diploma with 2+ years' experience in a customer facing role within a scientific environment

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certification/Associates degree in relevant field and 1-2 years of experience in a customer facing role within a scientific environment.
  • Basic Understanding of GLP/GxP and/or experience working in a compliance driven environment.

Working Environment:
  • Must be able to work in a laboratory, controlled environments requiring personal protective equipment (e.g., lab coat, safety glasses, etc.) in laboratory.
  • Job pace may be fast and job completion demands may be high.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position more than 25% of the time
  • The person needs to move between labs, corridors, adjoining rooms, and buildings onsite Frequently operate on instruments, objects, tools or controls, which will require regularly bending, squatting, stretching and reaching in order to perform in a service function.
  • Occasionally move or lift up to 25 pounds (potential for occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds).
  • Specific vision abilities required by this position include without limitation, the ability to observe details at close range distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus in order to perform the essential service functions of this position.
  • Occasionally operates a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer.
  • May be required to complete Medical Clearance, Respiratory Protection Training, and Fit Testing to wear a respirator as protection against hazards present in the laboratory environment.

The annual compensation range for this full-time position is $50,000 to $60,000. The final base pay offered to the successful candidate will be determined by factors including internal equity, work location, as well as individual qualifications, such as job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
PerkinElmer is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics protected by applicable law. PerkinElmer is committed to a culturally diverse workforce.

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