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Lab Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Medical Laboratory Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$1.8K - $2.0K/wk

Document results accurately and maintain proper lab records Requirements * Associate Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology or related field - Required * MLT certification (ASCP or equivalent ...

Solvenow Inc.

Lab Analyst

Vancouver, WA

Prefer candidates with an associate's or bachelor's degree in a science field. * Prefer candidates that have experience analyzing environmental samples. Responsibilities Include: * Analyzing ...

Twist Bioscience

Manufacturing Associate

Portland, OR · On-site

Manufacture high quality custom products in a high throughput MFG lab according to established SOPs ... Associates or Bachelors degree in Biology, chemistry or related field is desirable. * Familiarity ...

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All JobsLab Associate JobsLab Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Lab Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$23

$36

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Portland, OR is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $26.49 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,341 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Lab Assistant, Coating

Lab Assistant, Coating

Orchid Orthopedic Solutions

Oregon City, OR • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Combining Strengths. Expanding Possibilities. Tecomet and Orchid are now one company. Explore more at www.tecomet.com.

ABOUT US

The Oregon City, OR Site was established in 1969 and joined the Orchid team in 2012. The site focuses primarily on investment casting and 3D wax printing and machining and finishing and coating of orthopedic implants for extremities and large joint markets.


Robotic wax assembly, internal tool and design, finished machining, polishing, and sintered bead coating are key capabilities of the site. Our 80,000 square foot, FDA registered site employs approximately 175 team members. We ship nearly 1 million hip and knee joint implants to our customers who, in turn, provide solutions that enable patients to live longer, active lives. Fully integrated, our site manufactures medical implants from start to finish complying with the ISO 13485:2016 standard.


A career with Orchid provides growth opportunities, a great benefits package including performance bonuses, insurance, 401(k) with company match, and paid time off. For more information, please visit www.orchid-ortho.com.


SHIFT

ORE - Shift 1 ($0) (United States of America - Oregon)

A BRIEF OVERVIEW
Under direction, the lab tech performs duties to perform coating inspection/testing on castings and coupons to ensure castings meet customer specifications in accordance with established policies and procedures
WHAT YOU WILL DO

  • Set up testing equipment

  • Conduct tests to ensure quality or detect discontinuities (defects)

  • Follow established techniques for property examination of objects under inspection, ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations.

  • Apply testing criteria in accordance with applicable specifications or standards and evaluate results.

  • Utilize measuring instrument and equipment, such as: calipers, comparators, gages, micrometers, etc.

  • Review documentation to ensure appropriate materials are used and specifications are followed

  • Test and inspects at various product stages during production for defects, such as burrs, surface finish, and dimensional variances.

  • Ensure all systems transactions are completed and documented


EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Or Equivalent (Required)

  • Associates of Science (A.S) (Preferred)


EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

  • 2+ Years of experience in quality inspection (Required)

  • Experience in a FDA Regulated Environment (Preferred)

  • Manufacturing Experience (Preferred)


KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS THAT ENABLE SUCCESS

  • Accuracy and Attention to Detail - Working Experience

  • Blueprint Reading - Basic Knowledge

  • Communication - Basic Knowledge

  • Computer Knowledge - Basic Knowledge

  • Data Entry - Basic Knowledge

  • Quality Inspection Metrology Tools - Working Experience

  • Visual Quality Assurance - Basic Knowledge


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position - Constantly

  • Must be able to move about the inside of the building - Occasionally

  • Must be able to position oneself and move under/around/over equipment - Rarely

  • Must be able to handle/adjust/inspect/position various items and equipment - Constantly

  • Must be able to communicate and exchange information with others - Frequently

  • Must be able to perform tasks that require repetitive handling/adjusting/inspecting/positioning of items and equipment - Constantly

  • Must be able to distinguish and detect information such as writing and defects - Constantly


WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Noise - Occasionally

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Opportunity to work in a growing company

  • Ability to help people live a longer, more active life

  • Comprehensive benefit package

  • Ability to work in an organization that values:

    • Integrity First: We do the right thing

    • Teamwork: We are one Orchid

    • Results: Our results matter

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Candidates offered employment may be required to submit to a pre-employment background check and pre-employment drug-screening based on position requirements

  • Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time

  • Candidates must be able to provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States through eVerify

At Orchid, we fully support a diverse and inclusive workplace and we are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, hair type, age, status as a protected veteran, or disability.

Orchid Orthopedic Solutions only pays fees for solicited presentations of job seekers submitted through our preferred vendor job board by recruiters, employment agencies, or other parties.

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