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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

... laboratory departments, packing and shipping to reference lab. Assisting with preanalytical ... Key skills, associate degree or higher in biology, physical science, chemistry, strong work ethic.

An Associate's degree in Clinical Laboratory Technology Required Licensure, Certifications, Registrations: Certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP). If not certified, must ...

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Laboratory Associate information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Columbia, SC is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory associate?

Laboratory Associates are professionals who assist with various tasks in a laboratory setting, such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They often work under the supervision of scientists or laboratory managers and play a crucial role in supporting research and development activities. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the specific laboratory and industry, but attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of lab safety protocols are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory associate?

To thrive as a Laboratory Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and a background in biological or chemical sciences, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), safety protocols, and specialized equipment such as spectrophotometers or centrifuges is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help Laboratory Associates excel in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills ensure accurate results, safety, and efficiency, which are vital for reliable scientific research and operations.

What are some typical challenges laboratory associates face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing tasks such as sample preparation, data collection, and equipment maintenance can be challenging, especially when experiments have overlapping schedules or strict deadlines. Effective communication with team members and clear documentation are crucial to ensure that procedures are followed accurately and results remain reliable. Many labs use digital systems to track progress and share updates, which helps associates manage their workload efficiently.

What is the difference between Laboratory Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationAssociate degree or certification, often similar
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, healthcare, pharmaceutical settingsResearch, clinical, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, research institutions, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Laboratory Associates and Laboratory Technicians often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. Both roles support laboratory operations in healthcare, research, or industrial settings. The main differences are often related to specific job duties and employer terminology, but they are frequently used interchangeably depending on the organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Associate jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Laboratory Associate jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Associate jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Associate jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Associate job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,991 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Laboratory Section Leader, Full-Time, Days

Prisma Health

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Prisma Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 350 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

382nd of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Inspire health. Serve with compassion. Be the difference.
Job Summary
Conducts laboratory testing to aid in diagnosis and treatment of disease as a technical expert. Ensures proficiency and accuracy in all aspects of laboratory testing. Coordinates activities in the section to support daily operations and adherence to policies and procedures.
Accountabilities
  • Demonstrates proficiency, competency, and understanding of fundamental principles of clinical laboratory procedures and performs with precision and accuracy. Reviews pending work using established protocol. Operates computerized laboratory data systems/applications as assigned. Assures proper retention of all specimens. Performs and reports test results for waived, moderate, and high complexity clinical laboratory procedures as assigned and as outlined in the standard operating procedure (SOP) manuals.
  • Uses the correct policies and procedures in the collection, labeling, handling and processing of all specimens. Verifies identification of the patient, specimen, and results.
  • Participates in Quality Control (QC) and Quality Management (QM) for area assigned. Evaluates patient and QC results for acceptability and notifies the appropriate individual of unresolved issues. Performs lookback if required. Evaluates results and specimen integrity based on department standard operating procedures (SOPs) and escalates discrepancies to appropriate individual. Monitors supply/reagent inventory and uses laboratory resources efficiently. Documents receipt and opening of a supply. Monitors expiration dates of all supplies and follows established protocol.
  • Investigates and resolves technical problems, consults the appropriate individual as needed. Effectively operates laboratory instrumentation. Performs and documents maintenance and function/operational checks on instrumentation. Identifies real and potential situations or detects equipment malfunctions; troubleshoots the problem with appropriate individual or service representative and documents appropriately.
  • Complies with Policies and Procedures of Prisma Health system, campus, and laboratory. Understands and complies with standards and conditions set forth by various governmental and accrediting agencies in assigned operational area. Performs competency assessment for moderate and/or high complexity testing of team members as assigned. Maintains a safe and clean working environment and responds immediately to safety violations.
  • Employs good organizational talents and prioritizes tasks appropriately. Recognizes customer satisfaction issues and responds/escalates appropriately. Assumes responsibility for operation of the section in absence of supervisor. Instructs students, new team members, laboratory support staff, and hospital personnel in procedure, technique, and theory. May take part in the interview process of job applicants. Willingly performs and completes team assignments.
  • Communicates effectively in person, by phone, and in writing. Maintains open communication with laboratory leaders, pathologists, and fellow team members. Communicates pertinent information to other members of the healthcare team. Uses positive and professional interpersonal skills to educate/support laboratory customers.
  • Promotes individual professional growth and development by meeting requirements for mandatory/continuing education; accesses training needs and participates in Continuing Education (CE) programs annually. Completes all required 6 month and annual competencies in required time frame and performs proficiency testing as assigned.
  • Supports Prisma Health system and campus financial, customer service, and quality initiatives in a positive and productive manner. Participates in work unit action plans and supports department-based goals and initiatives which contribute to the success of Prisma Health.
  • Assists with competency assessment, quality control (reporting, review and new lot switches), maintenance, proficiency testing, AMR validation, troubleshooting, problem-solving, and other management duties as needed. Assures sufficient quantity of reagents and supplies and orders as needed. Assigns daily work assignments, performs LIS testing, reportable disease reporting. Writes procedures in accordance with Prisma Health Laboratory document control guidelines and procedure. Willingly and effectively takes responsibility to coordinate and implement special projects/tasks assigned.

Supervisory/Management Responsibility
This is a non-management job that will report to a supervisor, manager, director, or executive.
Minimum Requirements
  • Associates's Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology; Bachelor's degree in chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution preferred or one that meets ASCP or AMT certification.
  • 2 years of Clinical Laboratory Experience

Required Certifications/Registrations/Licenses
MT (ASCP) or MLS (ASCP)cm or Categorical (ASCP)or Categorical (ASCP)cm or MT (AMT) or MLT(ASCP) or MLT(ASCP)cm or MLT(AMT)
In Lieu Of The Above Minimum Requirements
Foreign degree that meets CLIA Testing Personnel Qualifications at the approval of the Administrative and Medical Director.
Team members employed in this job prior to July 1, 2020 are grandfathered under prior educational and experience requirements. In addition, team members must be certification eligible and will have one year to obtain required certification.
Other Required Skills and Experience
  • Computer skills; Microsoft Word and Excel required
  • Leadership and interpersonal skills required
  • Mathematical skills required

Work Shift
Day (United States of America)
Location
Baptist
Facility
1520 Baptist Hospital
Department
15207011 Laboratory-General
Share your talent with us! Our vision is simple: to transform healthcare for the benefits of the communities we serve. The transformation of healthcare requires talented individuals in every role here at Prisma Health.

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