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Lab Associate Jobs in Waterbury, CT (NOW HIRING)

Cloverleaf Bio

Research Associate

New Haven, CT

The Job We are seeking a Research Associate to join our team. In this position, you will work in ... Nice to haves: * 1+ years of post-degree wet lab experience * Research experience in tRNA, RNA ...

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Lab Associate information

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$13

$22

$34

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Waterbury, CT is $22.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $25.53 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 Waterbury, CT? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Waterbury, CT are:
What cities near Waterbury, CT are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Waterbury, CT with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Waterbury, CT as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,547 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Research Associate

Cloverleaf Bio

New Haven, CT

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

About Us

Cloverleaf Bio is an early-stage therapeutics company that is developing a new class of engineered tRNA therapeutics. Our tRNAs target an underappreciated vulnerability of cancer: addiction to high levels of tRNA modifying enzymes. Cloverleaf's approach to drugging tRNA modifying enzymes uses engineered "trojan horse" tRNAs to modulate translation in cancerous cells. The programmability, potency, and specificity of our tRNAs gives us the potential to dramatically improve cancer treatment.

The Job

We are seeking a Research Associate to join our team. In this position, you will work in close conjunction with our founding team in the creation and development of a completely novel family of RNA therapeutics.

Your responsibilities will range from designing and executing experiments independently and in collaboration with team members, preparation, and handling of RNAs and cell cultures, performing advanced laboratory techniques and methodologies, analyzing data and maintaining excellent written documentation of experiments (e.g. electronic lab notebook).

About You

Excited by the science. We are excited by how science can improve the world and are looking for people who are too.

Flexible. We wear many different hats and are looking for people who are willing to do whatever it takes to pitch in and get the job done.

Resilient. Working in an early-stage startup can be hard. Science is hard. We are looking for people who have a demonstrated track record of sticking with complex problems for the long haul.

Cooperative. As a small team, communication and collaboration are key. We are looking for people who thrive working both independently and collaboratively.

Qualifications:

  • BS/BA in biology or related field.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Experience with standard molecular biology techniques, including but not limited to, RNA/DNA extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR, western blotting, etc.
  • Skilled in mammalian cell culture, passaging/seeding cells, etc.

Nice to haves:

  • 1+ years of post-degree wet lab experience
  • Research experience in tRNA, RNA biology and/or RNA modifications field.
  • Prior experience with data analysis software (e.g. Prism) and statistics.
  • Experience with mammalian cell line engineering (e.g. lentivirus, CRISPR-CAS)

Benefits

  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience and strong equity incentives.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Brand new lab space in BioLabs New Haven in downtown New Haven, close to the Yale Shuttle, I-95/91 and Metro North.
  • We will provide a stimulating, collegial, and fast-paced environment. If you are interested in joining our team, then we are excited to hear from you! Please submit resumes at cloverleafbio.com
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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