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Lab Associate Jobs in Saco, ME (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Associate information

See Saco, ME salary details

$13

$23

$35

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Saco, ME is $23.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $26.15 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 Saco, ME? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Saco, ME are:
What cities near Saco, ME are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Saco, ME with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Saco, ME as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,715 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Medical Laboratory Scientist / Medical Lab Technician (MLS, MT, MLT)

Medical Laboratory Scientist / Medical Lab Technician (MLS, MT, MLT)

MaineHealth

Sanford, ME • On-site

$27.27 - $36.88/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

MaineHealth rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 234 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

334th of 889 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description

NorDx


Professional - Nonclinical
Req #: 78631


Summary:

Well qualified candidateswith less than 2 years of experienceare eligibleto receive a $7,500.00sign on bonus! While candidates with more than 2 years of experience are eligible to receive a $15,000 sign on bonus.This bonus will be prorated for Part Time or Per Diem positions.Relocation assistance and temporary housing if needed. Please note this bonus is not available to current MaineHealth employees or prior employees that have been separated for less than 6 months.

The Medical Laboratory Technician role is responsible for independently performing and monitoring laboratory testing of patient specimens and confirms, interprets, correlates, and reports normal and abnormal patient results and recognizes technical, instrumental and/or physiological problems and initiates resolutions. Responsible for accuracy, quality control and required instrument maintenance.

Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

  1. Education: Associate's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology or a similar field required.
  2. License/Certifications: Certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician required within six months of hire.by a recognized professional organization (e.g., ASCP, AMT)
  3. Experience: N/A
  4. Additional Skills/Requirements Required: May be asked to work at other sites/locations as needed.
  5. Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Additional Information


MaineHealth is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where care team members can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve across Maine and New Hampshire. We offer competitive benefits including paid parental leave, flexible work options, student loan assistance, professional development opportunities, and well-being resources-so you can grow your career while feeling supported both personally and professionally.

We recognize the value each team member brings to our organization.Any offer of employmentwill depend onqualificationssuch asskills, relevant experience, education, certifications,and otherjob-relatedfactors. Thebase rangeis an estimate and does notreflect the full valueofourtotal compensationpackage.

The pay range for this position is $27.27to $36.88 per hour.

Compensation for part-time positions isdeterminedon a prorated basis consistent with the scheduled hours and applicable full-time equivalent (FTE).

In addition to base pay, MaineHealth offerscomprehensivebenefits, recognition programs, career growth opportunities, and,where applicable,shiftdifferentials or other incentives.

If you have questions about this role, please contact aarin.miles@mainehealth.org

Hiring Scam Alert

MaineHealth will never request financial information during the interview or pre-hiring process. All legitimate communications will come from an email address ending in @mainehealth.org. If you suspect fraudulent activity, please report it immediately to mhcareers@mainehealth.org.

Notice Regarding Maine Employer Surveillance Statute:Pursuant to Maine's Employer Surveillance Statute, prospective care team members are notified that MaineHealth may monitor, collect, record, review, or retain information related to the use of its systems, networks, applications, files, data, communications platforms (including notified recordings), smart badges, building access, company vehicle GPS data, business calls, and workplace security cameras.

Information collected may be used for legitimate business purposes, including security, safety, compliance, investigations, training, quality assurance, and operational management.

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