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Lab Trainee Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Lab Trainee information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$12

$19

$33

How much do lab trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab trainee in Columbia, SC is $19.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by lab trainees during their initial months, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning to use specialized equipment, and managing time efficiently amidst multiple tasks. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking guidance from experienced team members and regularly reviewing standard operating procedures can ease the transition. Open communication with supervisors and participating in hands-on training sessions also help build confidence and competence in the lab environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab trainee?

To thrive as a Lab Trainee, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, attention to detail, and often at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, basic data analysis software, and adherence to safety protocols are typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and eagerness to learn help Lab Trainees excel and contribute positively to team dynamics. These skills ensure experiments are conducted accurately, safely, and efficiently, supporting reliable research outcomes.

What is the difference between Lab Trainee vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab TraineeLab Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant education; no formal certification requiredUsually holds a diploma or certification in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, learning-focusedOperational laboratory environment, performing routine tests and procedures
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, hospitals during trainingHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities

In summary, a Lab Trainee is primarily in a learning phase, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Lab Technician is a trained professional responsible for conducting laboratory tests independently.

What is a lab trainee?

Lab Trainees are individuals who are undergoing training in a laboratory setting to gain practical experience and develop essential skills in scientific research or testing. Their responsibilities often include assisting with experiments, preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and learning laboratory safety protocols. Lab Trainees work under the supervision of experienced scientists or technicians and may be students, recent graduates, or new employees. This position provides foundational experience necessary for a career in science or laboratory technology.

How can I start working in a lab?

To start working as a lab trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require basic knowledge of laboratory techniques or science subjects. Gaining relevant skills through coursework, certifications, or internships can improve your chances, and applying to entry-level positions or volunteering in labs can provide practical experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC? For Lab Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Lab Trainee jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Lab Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Trainee job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,697 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Technical Training Instructor (Pool)

State of South Carolina

Columbia, SC • On-site

$35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities readySC is a part of the Economic Development Division of the South Carolina Technical College System. We promote economic and workforce development for the State of SC by providing customized training for new and expanding business and industry in the State of SC. The primary duty of the Technical Training Instructor is to deliver technical training according to project scope, using and following pre-approved training curricula.

Training may be delivered in a classroom setting or in workstation/lab setting. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Deliver training on topics, such as workplace safety; First Aid/CPR/AED; 5S; lean manufacturing concepts; basic math; measurements; measuring tools; blueprint reading/schematics; hand tool use and safety; quality systems; and total productive maintenance. Effectively use current technology and computer programs in the classroom for training delivery (projector, graphs, charts, videos, PowerPoint, etc.)

Demonstrate topics being taught by applying and demonstrating knowledge of mechanics, hydraulics, pneumatics, hand tools, measuring instruments, and testing equipment. Deliver technical product knowledge and skill-based instruction. Clearly break down and explain technical skills and concepts, while reinforcing learning by making connections to training objectives and workplace applications.

Observe trainees, effectively answer trainees' questions, and provide constructive feedback to trainees in a professional manner. Administer written and practical assessments to evaluate trainees' performance, both pre-training and post-training. Prepare for training delivery and demonstrations with proper materials, classroom setups, and required participant paperwork.

Breakdown and clean-up after training. Submit required documentation in a timely manner upon completion of training sessions. Ensure proper documentation is completed and handled securely.

Create a safe, positive, supportive, and welcoming learning environment. Respectfully manage the training environment with an ability to command an audience. Establish interaction with and amongst participants.

Ensure the quality and consistency of training content. Implement approved revisions, as necessary, to maximize learning. Continuously improve training delivery skills based on current best practices.

Support other technical training areas. Minimum and Additional Requirements A bachelor's degree and relevant experience in technical, manufacturing, and/or military training; or an associate's degree and two (2) years relevant experience in technical, manufacturing, and/or military training; or a high school diploma and four (4) years relevant experience in technical, manufacturing, and/or military training. Candidates should have familiarity with manufacturing production environments, engineering drawings, and manufacturing management software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and process improvement principles.

Previous experience in curriculum development and delivering technical training (using knowledge of adult learning theory) in a classroom environment, preferably in industry, is highly desirable. Candidates should be able to work independently and be self-directing. Candidates should be available for flexible training hours.

Candidates should have highly competent facilitation, interpersonal, and communication skills. Candidates should be team players with the ability to build and sustain credibility. Candidates should have computer skills in the major office applications, e.g

Word, Excel, PPT. Additional Comments This position is located at Greenville Technical College Brashier Campus - 1830 West Georgia Road, Simpsonville, SC 29680.


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About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

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