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Lab Associate Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Associate information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$12

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$34

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Rochester, MN is $22.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $25.43 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 Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Rochester, MN 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 $47,293 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Lab Processing Assistant - Genomics Culture Lab

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 697 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

As a Laboratory Processing Assistant (LPA), you will be an integral part of the laboratory team providing support in patient testing. You will be responsible for the following responsibilities. 

  • Performing pre-analytic specimen processing
  • Operating a variety of laboratory and office equipment
  • Entering information and test orders into the laboratory computer system and responding to a high volume of phone calls seeking laboratory testing information
  • Ensuring correct patient identification on specimens and documentation and resolution of pre-analytic specimen-related issues
  • Performing complex reagent preparation
  • Managing work unit supply inventory
  • Operating automated systems 
  • Providing training to others

During the selection process you may participate in an OnDemand (pre-recorded) interview that you can complete at your convenience. During the OnDemand interview, a question will appear on your screen, and you will have time to consider each question before responding. You will have the opportunity to re-record your answer to each question - Mayo Clinic will only see the final recording. The complete interview will be reviewed by a Mayo Clinic staff member and you will be notified of next steps. 

Visit the Clinical Labs career site to watch a brief video of Lina discussing her role as a Lab Processing Assistant at Mayo Clinic. 

 *Individuals hired to this position will be required to complete 2 years in this position before becoming eligible to apply to other positions within Mayo Clinic.* 

**This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship; Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program. **

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law".  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

An associate degree or high school diploma/GED and 2 years of work experience including clinical laboratory and/or other relevant experience.

Additional Qualifications

  • Associate degree in a health or science field preferred.
  • Lab assistant experience preferred.
  • Ability to be attentive to details and adhere to strict safety requirements for handling chemicals, reagents and infectious agents.
  • Must be organized and have the ability to prioritize and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to accurately read specimen labels and work with numbers to prevent mislabeling.
  • Previous experience or knowledge of computers and keyboarding, telephone operations, and other office equipment.
  • Must possess good human relations skills and be able to communicate effectively both orally and in written form.
  • Must be able to work independently as well as in a team environment.
  • Must be able to accommodate scheduling adjustments, off-shifts, holiday, and weekend work assignments.

Application Requirements

*All must be included for your application to be considered: 

  • CV/Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Internal candidates must provide their past three performance appraisals. 

**DLMP employees that have been in current lab/position for less than 2 years must attach early release approval from supervisor. 

***Non-DLMP internal applicants that have been in their current department/position for less than 1 year must attach early release approval from supervisor. 

*International transcript:

  • MUST have a DETAILED equivalency evaluation.
  • MUST show US equivalent degree.
  • Evaluation MUST be completed from an organization listed as a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) www.naces.org OR the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE) www.aice-eval.org

What Mayo Clinic employees say

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919