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Lab Associate Jobs in Saint Cloud, MN (NOW HIRING)

Technician II, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

Lab Technician II is an intermediate level position. Under minimal supervision where operations and ... associates, including relatives and friends)

Technician II, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

Lab Technician II is an intermediate level position. Under minimal supervision where operations and ... associates, including relatives and friends)

Technician I, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Lab Tech I is an entry level position. Under close supervision where operations and sequences are ... Ability to communicate with other associates in a clear, concise manner * Professional demeanor

New

Manager, Lab

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$75K - $118K/yr

The Lab Manager will be accountable for service, quality, cost management, and leadership of all ... Conduct activities designed to grow the core knowledge of associates working toward defect ...

Medical Lab Technician

Buffalo, MN · On-site

$27.65 - $37.90/hr

August 05, 2026 Department: 72406301 Buffalo Lab Shift: Evening/Night (United States of America ... Associate's or Vocational degree in a related laboratory field including clinical rotations or ...

Quality Lab Lead

Elk River, MN · On-site

$32 - $38.50/hr

Associate degree strongly preferred * Strong technical & fixturing background in measurement lab operations or quality systems. * Proficiency in quality documentation and Reporting * Excellent ...

Quality Lab Lead

Elk River, MN · On-site

$32 - $38.50/hr

Associate degree strongly preferred * Strong technical & fixturing background in measurement lab operations or quality systems. * Proficiency in quality documentation and Reporting * Excellent ...

Quality Lab Lead

Elk River, MN · On-site

$32 - $38.50/hr

Associate degree strongly preferred * Strong technical & fixturing background in measurement lab operations or quality systems. * Proficiency in quality documentation and Reporting * Excellent ...

Quality Lab Lead

Elk River, MN · On-site

$32 - $38.50/hr

Associate degree strongly preferred * Strong technical & fixturing background in measurement lab operations or quality systems. * Proficiency in quality documentation and Reporting * Excellent ...

Associate's degree from an accredited Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT)/Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Program or other qualifications as outlined by CLIA regulation, section 493.1489 for ...

Optical Sales Associate

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in St. Cloud West ... Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Medical Lab Technician

Clearwater, MN · On-site

$25.20 - $37.81/hr

Associate's degree from an accredited Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT)/Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Program or other qualifications as outlined by CLIA regulation, section 493.1489 for ...

Associate's degree from an accredited Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT)/Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Program or other qualifications as outlined by CLIA regulation, section 493.1489 for ...

Shopko Optical is seeking a Part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in St Cloud, MN. On ... Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Optical Sales Associate

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$16 - $22.40/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in St Cloud, MN. On ... Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

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Lab Associate information

See Saint Cloud, MN salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Saint Cloud, MN is $22.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $24.76 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 Saint Cloud, MN?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Saint Cloud, MN are:

What cities near Saint Cloud, MN are hiring for Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near Saint Cloud, MN with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Saint Cloud, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,085 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Medical Lab Technician or Medical Lab Scientist

CentraCare Health

Monticello, MN • On-site

$32.57 - $48.09/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


CentraCare rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Temporary role until 12/26/26

Performs laboratory tests according to current standards of federal, state, and local regulations and District policies and procures. (CLT-Clinical Lab Technician, MLT-Medical Lab Technician; CLA-Clinical Lab Assistant)

What you will do:

  • Perform clinical laboratory procedures in chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunohematology, immunology, and other areas of the clinical laboratory.
  • Monitor quality to maintain high performance.
  • Utilize state-of-the-art equipment.    
  • Use established and approved protocol that require a broad exercise of independent judgment and responsibility with minimal technical supervision.
  • Responsible for operating, maintaining, and validating instrumentation/equipment and records. 
  • Troubleshooting of equipment, instruments, and procedures
  • Recognized factors affecting measurement and takes appropriate action.
  • Monitor quality control, proficiency testing and quality assurance activities related to test performance.
  • Determine results that are abnormal or deviated from expected.
  • Rotates through various benches/areas of the lab to include Microbiology, Blood Bank, Hematology, Coagulation, Urinalysis, Chemistry, molecular, and phlebotomy responsibilities.
  • Involved in special projects, evaluations, and implementation of new methodologies in the laboratory.
  • Support and implements patient safety and other safety practices as appropriate.
  • Demonstrate customer service principles when interacting with patients and their families and with co-workers.

Schedule:

  • Temporary role until 12/26/26
  • Full-time | 72 hours every two weeks | Onsite
  • Days | 8-hour shifts | Monday-Friday shifts between 7am and 6pm. 
  • Optional weekends and holidays for additional hours. 

Pay and Benefits

  • MLT
    • Starting pay begins at $27.67 per hour and increases with experience
      • Pay range: $27.67 - $39.59 per hour
  • MLS
    • Starting pay begins at $32.57 per hour and increases with experience
      • Pay range: $32.57 - $48.09 per hour

Qualifications:

  • MLT
    • Associate degree from an accredited Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician (CLT / MLT) program New Graduate's degree must be validated within 2 months post-graduation. 
    • ASCP-BOC certified within 6 months, with the first exam completed within 3 months of hire, with certification verified within six weeks of exam
    • Basic Life Support (BLS) Current American Heart Association (AHA) BLS Healthcare Provider card required 
  • MLS
    • Bachelor's degree with necessary science/math credits as required and verified by the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC). New graduate's degree must be validated within 2 months post-graduation
    • ASCP-BOC certified within 6 months, with the first exam completed within 3 months of hire, with certification verified within six weeks of exam
    • Basic Life Support (BLS) Current American Heart Association (AHA) BLS Healthcare Provider card required 


CentraCare has made a commitment to diversity in its workforce. All individuals including, but not limited to, individuals with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. CentraCare is an EEO/AA employer.


What CentraCare employees say

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About CentraCare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CentraCare has grown to meet the needs of the communities and is now one of the largest health systems in Minnesota. This means we are able to offer the latest advancements in care, technology and treatments close to home. But what makes CentraCare special is not our facilities or technology. It is our people. We live in the communities we serve. We are neighbors, friends and family. And when you need us, we are here for you.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

St. Cloud, MN, US

Year founded

1886