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Lab Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Associate degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Technology, or a related scientific field * Previous laboratory experience is preferred but not required * Basic understanding of laboratory ...

New

It's not the typical lab; you'll be hands-on with state-of-the-art equipment performing maintenance ... Associates degree in a technical field or equivalent military training with 7+ years of relevant ...

It's not the typical lab; you'll be hands-on with state-of-the-art equipment performing maintenance ... Associates degree in a technical field or equivalent military training with 7+ years of relevant ...

It's not the typical lab; you'll be hands-on with state-of-the-art equipment performing maintenance ... Bachelor's degree in a technical field with no previous professional experience; or Associates ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$23

$36

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 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 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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% 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.

$60K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Function/Duties of Position
We are a lab at OHSU in the Department of Pediatrics. We use the model system of zebrafish to study adult stem cell biology, brain cancer stem cells, and neural regeneration. All of these topics are unified by the field of developmental biology and we use common molecular biology techniques and genetics to study these processes. We are looking for a Senior Research Associate who has extensive experience using zebrafish to study molecular biological questions. The projects require fish line creation, embryo injections, genomics, and the drive to get genetic tools working in the lab. In addition to the technical aspects of the job, this position will have opportunities for grant writing and trainee supervision.
Required Qualifications
  • PhD in relevant field AND 1 year of relevant experience OR Master's Degree in relevant field AND 5 years of relevant experience OR Bachelor's Degree in relevant field AND 9 years of relevant experience.
  • Experience using model organisms to study cell and developmental biology.
  • Experience with common molecule staining and cloning techniques is essential.

Preferred Qualifications
  • PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, or genetics.
  • Zebrafish and related husbandry.
  • Ability to use R to manipulate next generation genomic data.
  • Familiarity with Linux.

Additional Details
Apply here online:
Upload cover letter and resume. Please be sure to include months and years (MM/YYYY format) to the resume for jobs/work experience.
*OHSU Employees be sure to apply using your OHSU email.*
Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887