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Lab Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HV Test Lab Operator

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

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Clinical Lab Operator I-Temp

Austin, TX · On-site

$24.42 - $30.53/hr

... operating procedures • Recognizes, documents, and escalates protocol deviations in lab to lead/supervisor • Communicates with team and other departments on various platforms (including via e-mail ...

... operating procedures • Recognizes, documents, and escalates protocol deviations in lab to lead/supervisor • Communicates with team and other departments on various platforms (including via e-mail ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Operator information

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$9

$25

$45

How much do lab operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operator in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab operator?

Lab operators are professionals responsible for managing and conducting day-to-day operations in laboratories. Their duties typically include setting up and maintaining lab equipment, preparing samples, running experiments, recording data, and ensuring that safety and quality standards are met. Lab operators may work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing, research, or environmental testing. They often collaborate with scientists and other technicians to support research projects and product development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Operator, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant scientific principles, often supported by a degree or certification in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data management systems, and specialized software such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and clear communication help Lab Operators ensure accuracy and collaborate effectively with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, quality control, and reliable results in laboratory environments.

What are some typical challenges a lab operator might face on a daily basis, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Operators often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, maintaining strict safety protocols, and ensuring precise calibration of equipment. It can be demanding to balance these tasks while meeting deadlines and adhering to quality standards. To address these challenges, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with team members are essential. Proactively reporting equipment malfunctions and participating in regular training sessions also help maintain a safe and efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Lab Operator vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab OperatorLab Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing labs, quality control, production settingsResearch labs, clinical labs, industrial testing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food productionHealthcare, research institutions, biotech companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsSimilar roles in laboratory settings, career pathways

Lab Operators and Lab Technicians often work in laboratory environments, but Lab Operators typically focus on operating equipment and monitoring processes in manufacturing or production settings. Lab Technicians usually perform testing, analysis, and data recording in research or clinical labs. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but their work environments and specific duties differ, making it important to understand these distinctions when exploring career options.

More about Lab Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Lab Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Lab Operator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Lab Operator jobs?

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What states have the most Lab Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lab Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Operator jobs?

For Lab Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lab Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Oil/ Metal Lab Analysis Technician

San Diego, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

SCMI1 has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated candidate to fill one vacant role as an Oil/ Metal Lab Analysis Technician for the United States Navy. The candidate will function in accordance with the equivalent responsibilities of an Engineering Technician IV to provide critical technical assistance for the Navy’s Joint Oil Analysis Program.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Maintain Lab Operator training records
  • Perform oil sample processing and analysis for various naval aviation and non-aviation activities
  • Perform daily checks of oil analysis equipment
  • Provide material engineering guidance on projects and methodologies pertaining to material and metallurgical testing
  • Identify, as needed, unknown material, and issue reports of findings to customers while maintaining accurate records
  • Perform Sensitization of 5XXX series Aluminum testing IAW ASTM G67 requirements
  • Perform NDT testing of 5XXX series Aluminum
  • Submit appropriate reports to maintain lab certifications
  • Perform Spectro Analysis on metals using X-ray equipment
  • Perform hardness testing of various metals
  • Coordinate with Ship's Force to perform various testing of life saving and ship/ aircraft handling equipment
Security Clearance Requirements:
  • Must possess and maintain an active Department of Defense (DoD) SECRET Security Clearance
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:
  • Associate degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or other related field
  • 3 to 5 years of Navy Oil Lab Analysis experience
  • Ability to perform various oil analysis tests to include lubricating and hydraulic oil used in Navy aircraft and shipboard systems
  • Ability to perform the following tests:
    • particle
    • viscosity
    • spectrum analysis
    • water content
    • total acid
  • Successful completion of the Navy JOAP, or ability to complete the Navy JOAP school within one year of hire
  • Ability to read and understand Safety Data Sheets
  • Ability to use appropriate methods for Material Identification to include HAZMAT
  • Familiarity with the NAMP
  • Familiarity with the Joint Fleet Maintenance Manual requirements
  • Ability to use clear and concise oral and written communications
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Generic Material Identity Examiner
  • Generic Material Test Inspector qualified
  • Energy-Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometer operator qualification
  • Degree of Sensitization Probe Operator qualified
  • Analytical X-Ray qualified
  • MS Office suite proficiency

Note: Your resume and candidacy is subject to customer approval and acceptance and clearing of the required background check. Salary is negotiable and commensurate with background and applicable required job experience.

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