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Lab Prep Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Eberly College of Science, Department of Biology, has a part-time opening for a Lab Prep Crew member to work within the department of Biology for the 2026-2027 academic ...

LAB SAMPLE PREP TECH 1

Amarillo, TX

$16.50 - $22/hr

Lab Sample Prep Technician 1 Department: Laboratory Reports To: Lab Supervisor Report Location: Amarillo, TX FLSA Status: Non-Exempt COMPANY OVERVIEW & ROLE SUMMARY Since 1975, ServiTech has provided ...

Specimen Prep Technician

Sonora, CA

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Lab Support Step into a fastpaced, handson role at our corporate laboratory, where Specimen Prep Technicians keep Arizona's largest diagnostic network moving. You'll be the critical first touchpoint ...

Be Seen First

Job Summary Clark Testing is seeking a Sample Prep Technician for our Dupo, Illinois coal & coke ... Work both independently and as a member of a team. * Assist co-workers in other lab areas when ...

The Liquid Prep Technician will be responsible for controlled room disinfection/prep and set up ... Ensures that supplies needed such as weigh boats, gloves, lab coats, etc. are well stocked in their ...

The bottle prep Technician is responsible for receiving, organizing, preparing bottle order ... Associate's degree or relevant lab experience preferred * Prior experience in a laboratory or ...

About Company: About us Since 1919, we at Forbo Movement Systems have been the specialists for high-quality conveyor and processing belts, versatile plastic modular belts, homogeneous conveyor belts ...

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Lab Prep Technician information

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How much do lab prep technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab prep technician in the United States is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lab Prep Technician vs Laboratory Assistant?

AspectLab Prep TechnicianLaboratory Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; minimal certifications needed
Work EnvironmentLaboratories in healthcare, research, or industrial settingsSimilar laboratory environments, often supporting research or clinical labs
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing samples, sterilizing equipment, organizing lab materialsAssisting with sample collection, data entry, and basic lab tasks

The main difference is that Lab Prep Technicians focus on preparing and maintaining lab materials and samples, while Laboratory Assistants often support broader lab activities, including data management and sample collection. Both roles work in similar environments and require comparable credentials, but their specific duties differ slightly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Prep Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Prep Technician, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, chemical handling, and equipment maintenance, typically supported by a degree or coursework in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with lab safety protocols, inventory management systems, and basic scientific instrumentation is essential. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate experiment preparation, a safe working environment, and smooth support for scientific research activities.

What is the highest salary for a lab technician?

The highest salary for a lab prep technician can reach around $60,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills, certifications, or supervisory responsibilities may offer higher compensation.

What are Lab Prep Technicians?

Lab Prep Technicians are professionals responsible for preparing laboratory materials, equipment, and solutions required for experiments and research. They ensure that all supplies are properly labeled, organized, and maintained to support smooth laboratory operations. Their duties often include cleaning and sterilizing equipment, managing inventory, and assisting scientists or instructors during experiments. Lab Prep Technicians play a crucial role in maintaining a safe and efficient lab environment.

How much is a lab technician paid?

Lab technicians typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $35,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or advanced certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and additional responsibilities in laboratory settings.

Who gets paid more, MLT or MLS?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) and Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) are different roles with MLS typically earning higher salaries due to advanced education and responsibilities. MLS professionals usually hold a bachelor's degree and have more extensive training, which is reflected in higher pay compared to MLTs, who often have an associate degree. Salary differences can vary by location and employer but generally favor MLS positions.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Prep Technicians and how can they be managed?

Lab Prep Technicians often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines, maintaining accurate inventory of supplies, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Staying organized, communicating proactively with team members, and regularly checking inventory can help manage these challenges. Additionally, being adaptable and detail-oriented is key, as priorities can shift quickly based on lab needs or experimental schedules.

What is the highest paying lab technician job?

The highest paying lab technician roles are often specialized positions such as clinical laboratory managers, research scientists, or quality assurance directors, which require advanced skills, certifications, and experience. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and expertise in areas like molecular biology, microbiology, or laboratory management.
More about Lab Prep Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Lab Prep Technician jobs? Cities with the most Lab Prep Technician job openings:
What states have the most Lab Prep Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Lab Prep Technician jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lab Prep Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Prep Technician jobs are:
Infographic showing various Lab Prep Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,864 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Eberly College of Science, Department of Biology, has a part-time opening for a Lab Prep Crew member to work within the department of Biology for the 2026-2027 academic year. This position will be under the supervision of Jennifer Rittenhouse, and duties include, but are not limited to, assisting faculty with routine teaching lab functions for the Biology Core Courses, such as preparing lab materials and lab equipment, maintaining lab rooms and prep spaces, washing dishes and other duties as assigned. Applications must be submitted electronically with a resume and cover letter. Positions will be given to full-time registered Penn State students. Applications will be received on an ongoing basis and reviewed as the need arises.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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