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Lab Operations Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview The Lab Support Specialist will support daily lab operations across lab services, materials management, and shipping/receiving functions. This role involves working closely with ...

Lab Technician

De Forest, WI

$19 - $25.50/hr

... support lab operations at a higher level, and contribute to training and mentoring newer team ... members. As proficiency and experience grow, Lab Technicians may be assigned independent ...

Lab Technician

Watertown, WI

$18 - $24/hr

... support lab operations at a higher level, and contribute to training and mentoring newer team ... members. As proficiency and experience grow, Lab Technicians may be assigned independent ...

Lab Technician

Watertown, WI · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... support lab operations at a higher level, and contribute to training and mentoring newer team ... members. As proficiency and experience grow, Lab Technicians may be assigned independent ...

Lab Technician

De Forest, WI · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

... support lab operations at a higher level, and contribute to training and mentoring newer team ... members. As proficiency and experience grow, Lab Technicians may be assigned independent ...

OPERATIONS * PRODUCTION SCHEDULE * PURIFICATION * SOLUTIONS * SUB-ASSEMBLIES Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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Lab Operations information

See Madison, WI salary details

$9

$25

$45

How much do lab operations jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations in Madison, WI is $25.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $28.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Lab Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Lab Operations, you need a solid background in laboratory techniques, quality control, and safety protocols, typically supported by a degree in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), instrumentation calibration, and regulatory standards like GLP or ISO is essential. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure smooth workflow and collaboration within the lab. These competencies are crucial for maintaining accurate results, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab functioning.

What are some common challenges faced in lab operations roles, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in lab operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with safety regulations, managing inventory and equipment calibration, and ensuring smooth workflow coordination among team members. Staying organized and implementing standardized protocols can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, strong communication skills and regular training support efficient collaboration between scientists, technicians, and support staff, which is crucial for minimizing errors and maintaining a productive lab environment.

What are Lab Operations?

Lab Operations refers to the processes, systems, and people responsible for ensuring that a laboratory runs smoothly and efficiently. This includes managing equipment, supplies, safety protocols, scheduling, and regulatory compliance. Those working in lab operations may coordinate experiments, maintain instruments, oversee inventory, and support researchers or scientists. The goal is to create a safe and organized environment that enables scientific work to be carried out effectively and in compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Lab Operations vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab OperationsLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a science or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentInvolves overseeing lab workflows, managing staff, and ensuring complianceHands-on testing, sample preparation, and data recording in laboratory settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in research labs, clinical labs, and industrial settings for management rolesCommon in clinical, medical, and industrial laboratories for technical tasks

Lab Operations professionals focus on managing laboratory workflows, staff, and compliance, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Laboratory Technicians perform hands-on testing and sample analysis, typically with an associate degree or certification. While both roles are essential in laboratory settings, Lab Operations roles are more managerial and oversight-oriented, whereas Laboratory Technicians are more technical and operational.

Infographic showing various Lab Operations job openings in Madison, WI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 42% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, and 18% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $52,917 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Agronomy Shift Lead (Lab Operations / Team Lead)

Agronomy Shift Lead (Lab Operations / Team Lead)

Career Search

Watertown, WI

$20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

We are hiring an Agronomy Shift Lead to help manage daily operations in a fast-paced agricultural laboratory. This role is ideal for someone with experience in production, manufacturing, or lab operations, who is ready to step into a hands-on supervisory position. You will play a key role in ensuring smooth workflow, maintaining quality standards, and supporting seasonal staff during peak soil and plant tissue testing seasons.

Key Responsibilities

  • Supervise and coordinate soil sample intake operations (spring & fall), including:
    • Receiving, organizing, and tracking incoming samples
    • Operating and loading drying ovens
    • Assigning and staging samples for processing
    • Troubleshooting data entry issues to prevent workflow delays
    • Scanning and labeling submission sheets
  • Lead plant tissue sample processing (summer), including:
    • Intake, labeling, chopping, and drying samples
  • Provide leadership across multiple lab areas, including:
    • Sample preparation and processing workflows
    • Supporting and directing seasonal employees
  • Step into critical lab roles (e.g., grinding, extraction) as needed
  • Maintain high standards for accuracy, efficiency, and turnaround time

Schedule

  • Peak Seasons: 50-60 hours/week (spring, summer, fall)
  • Off-Season: 30-40 hours/week
  • Overtime available and expected during busy periods

Pay & Benefits

  • Starting Pay: $20/hour
  • Overtime Pay: 1.5x hourly rate (100-150 hours/year typical)

Benefits Include:

  • Health, dental, vision, retirement savings, and more
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Paid holidays
  • Stable, year-round employment with seasonal variety
  • Hands-on training and skill development
  • Team-oriented work environment