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Lab Technician Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Technician

Madison, AL · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Lab Coat, Safety Glasses, ESD Shoes, High Visibility Vest, A4 Cut Gloves and Hard Hat ... Technician matching Industrial coating colors over metal substrates Color matching process: Matches ...

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Lab Technician information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab technician in Decatur, AL is $21.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $22.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a Lab Technician may encounter during daily work and how can they effectively address them?

Lab Technicians often face challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, maintaining strict adherence to safety and quality protocols, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are crucial for balancing these responsibilities. Proactively communicating with supervisors and collaborating with team members can help resolve technical problems quickly, while regular equipment maintenance and thorough documentation ensure smooth lab operations.

What kind of lab tech makes the most money?

Among lab technicians, those specializing in clinical chemistry, molecular diagnostics, or working in high-demand industries like pharmaceuticals tend to earn higher salaries. Advanced certifications, specialized skills, and experience in high-tech environments can also increase earning potential for lab technicians.

What is the difference between Lab Technician vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab TechnicianMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications varyAssociate's degree in medical laboratory technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industrial labs, environmental testingHospitals, clinics, medical labs
Industry UsageResearch, manufacturing, environmental testingHealthcare, medical diagnostics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Lab Technicians and Medical Laboratory Technicians work in laboratory settings, Medical Laboratory Technicians specifically focus on medical diagnostics in healthcare environments, often requiring specialized certification. Lab Technicians have broader roles across various industries, including research and manufacturing. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are lab technicians?

Lab technicians are professionals who perform technical tasks in laboratories, such as preparing samples, conducting tests, operating laboratory equipment, and recording results. They work in various fields, including medical, research, environmental, and industrial labs. Lab technicians play a crucial role in supporting scientists and healthcare professionals by ensuring that lab operations run smoothly and results are accurate. Their work often involves following strict protocols to maintain safety and quality standards.

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

To thrive as a Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, scientific principles, and at least an associate degree in a relevant field such as biology or chemistry. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments like spectrophotometers, and safety certifications (e.g., OSHA training) is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate results, compliance with safety standards, and smooth laboratory operations.

What Do Lab Technicians Do?

Lab technicians play an essential role in the study and treatment of diseases. They are responsible for assisting physicians in hospitals and doctor’s offices by collecting samples and performing tests on tissues, blood, and other body fluids. The tests they perform and the results they gather help doctors diagnose patients and determine causes of illnesses. Lab technicians may work in all general areas of a laboratory or doctor’s office, or they may choose to specialize. For example, immunohematology technologists collect and prepare blood donated for transfusions, while immunology technologists examine the human immune system.

What does a lab technician do?

A lab technician performs tests and experiments in laboratories to support scientific research, medical diagnosis, or quality control. They prepare samples, operate laboratory equipment, record data accurately, and follow safety protocols. Typically, they have technical training or certifications and work under the supervision of scientists or lab managers.

Can I work in a lab without a degree?

Lab technician roles typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions favoring or requiring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory procedures. While some entry-level positions may accept relevant experience or on-the-job training, most labs prefer candidates with formal education and knowledge of lab equipment and safety protocols.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab technician?

To become a lab technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many roles requiring an associate degree or a bachelor's degree in fields like biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and sometimes certification in safety or specific techniques, depending on the industry or employer.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Technician jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Lab Technician jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Technician jobs in Decatur, AL? For Lab Technician jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Technician jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Technician jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Lab Technician jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Lab Technician job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Technician job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,932 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Tech II - Quality Chem Lab

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Carpenter Technology rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Carpenter Technology Corporation is a leading producer and distributor of premium specialty alloys, including titanium alloys, nickel and cobalt based superalloys, stainless steels, alloy steels and tool steels. Carpenter Technology's high-performance materials and advanced process solutions are an integral part of critical applications used within the aerospace, transportation, medical and energy markets, among other markets. Building on its history of innovation, Carpenter Technology's wrought and powder technology capabilities support a range of next-generation products and manufacturing techniques, including novel magnetic materials and additive manufacturing. Our Tanner, AL location is an integrated mill manufacturing high quality premium and ultra-premium forged bar and billet products from melt to ship.

TECHNICIAN II - QUALITY CHEMICAL LAB - Daylight

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE TECHNICIAN II - QUALITY CHEMICAL LAB

  • Based on working knowledge of all machinery within area, performs a diversified range of moderately complex tasks related to the preparation of steel, alloy, and slag specimens and the associated analysis of these specimens by instrumental methods.
  • Analyses consist of several complex steps, including type correction standards, and are completed under moderate supervision.
  • Inspect test specimens for acceptable quality criteria, rejecting poor quality test specimens, and requesting replacement samples from internal customers as required.
  • Prepare test specimens for analysis using various equipment. This equipment includes abrasive saws, disk and belt sanders, horizontal grinder and drill presses.
  • Perform prescribed routine preventative maintenance checks and corrective maintenance and make adjustments as required on various sample preparation machinery and auxiliary equipment including optical emission spectrometers. This includes sludge removal, dust collection system cleaning, sharpening drill bits and replacement of broken or worn abrasives.
  • Register new test specimens into the electronic laboratory management system. Properly identify samples and retain or discard these samples according to standard operating procedure.
  • Accurately perform analysis of furnace and product specimens using C/S combustion instruments, N/O fusion instruments, and Optical Emission Spectrometers, SEM and Inverted Microscope. Maintain these instruments according to intervals required by SOP.
  • Review test data and apply appropriate corrections based on certified reference material analyses or other statistical means.
  • Perform all other duties and special projects as assigned.

REQUIRED FOR THE TECHNICIAN II - QUALITY CHEMICAL LAB

  • High school diploma is required; additional demonstrated relevant experience is preferred. Associate Degree in Chemistry or two years in a physical science curriculum is also preferred.
  • One to two years of relevant laboratory experience and six months' experience as a Technician I is required.
  • Works with moderate supervision/guidance; accountable for individual results and impact on team.
  • Ensures a safe workplace. Promotes ways to improve the quality of life and protect the environment in the communities in which the Company does business.
  • Applicable knowledge of chemical lab testing procedures as demonstrated through the training/qualification process.
  • Working knowledge of chemical lab testing procedures.
  • Working knowledge of chemical lab testing equipment to include C/S, N/O and the optical emission spectrometer, SEM and Inverted Microscope.
  • Working knowledge of statistical analysis methodology.
  • Applicable knowledge for using instrument software and applying type correction to results.
  • Applicable knowledge of LIMS system.
  • Ability to operate a computer workstation and the related hardware and software for the LIMS system, the Leco units and the optical emission spectrometers.
  • Ability to operate and maintain chemical lab equipment.
  • Ability to organize tasks and follow established priorities for processing samples and make appropriate decisions.
  • Ability to work in a production-oriented environment.
  • Ability to work with and without direct supervision.
  • Verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 40 lbs.
  • Mechanical skills for routine maintenance, minor repairs and the maintenance of the optical emission spectrometers.

Carpenter Technology Company offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including life, medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, disability coverage, 401k with company contributions as well as many other options to employees.

Carpenter Technology Corporation's policy is to fully and effectively maintain a program of equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination for all employees, to employ affirmative action for all protected classes, and to recruit and develop the best qualified persons available regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by law. The Company also will recruit, develop and provide opportunities for qualified persons with disabilities and protected veterans.


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