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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Lancaster, PA (NOW HIRING)

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline preferred. Ability to perform routine laboratory testing and analysis in a food, agricultural, manufacturing, or quality environment. Basic ...

The Associate Technician will be assigned a mentor who will teach and train them to use the equipment in the laboratory with the objective of becoming able to work independently. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

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Laboratory Associate information

See Lancaster, PA salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Lancaster, PA is $21.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $24.28 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 Lancaster, PA?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Lancaster, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Associate jobs in Lancaster, PA?

For Laboratory Associate jobs in Lancaster, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Associate jobs in Lancaster, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Associate jobs in Lancaster, PA are:

What cities near Lancaster, PA are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs?

Cities near Lancaster, PA with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Associate job openings in Lancaster, PA 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 $45,233 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Associate - Microbiology ( Full-time, Evenings)

Pennsylvania Medicine

Lancaster, PA • On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs routine and special diagnostic test procedures, including supporting quality control, documentation, and instrument maintenance.

  • Handles specimen collection, processing, and organization, including specimen separation, centrifugation, and preservation.

  • Enters test results into laboratory systems, evaluates quality control results, and reports findings to appropriate caregivers.


Penn Medicine rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Penn Medicine is dedicated to our tripartite mission of providing the highest level of care to patients, conducting innovative research, and educating future leaders in the field of medicine. Working for this leading academic medical center means collaboration with top clinical, technical and business professionals across all disciplines.
Today at Penn Medicine, someone will make a breakthrough. Someone will heal a heart, deliver hopeful news, and give comfort and reassurance. Our employees shape our future each day. Are you living your life's work?
Hours: 2nd shift (3-11:30pm), every 4th weekend, holiday rotation
Summary:
  • Position Summary:
  • Performs routine and special diagnostic test procedures, as well as supporting Quality Control and documentation, function verification, instrument maintenance, associated specimen collection, and clerical work as required.
  • Qualified individuals must have the ability with or without reasonable accommodation to perform the following duties:
  • Performs and documents Quality Control. Verifies functioning of instruments.
  • Performs initial evaluation and handling of incoming specimens: separation, centrifugation and preservation procedures; sorts and organizes specimen batches.
  • Organizes, labels and numbers specimen, worksheets, and appropriate test materials in test set-up. Measures and dispenses specimens and reagents in test system.
  • Monitors manual functions of test system and instruments to assure accuracy and precision; performs and runs standards, patient samples, programmed controls through automated or manual protocols.
  • Records and evaluates programmed quality control results according to established control limits; follows corrective action procedures for out-of-control situations.
  • Enters test results and related data into laboratory computer and into logbook after controls are evaluated and found to be within limits; calls "alert values" to appropriate caregivers. Accurately reports test results, understanding the inter-relationships between patient condition, medication and timing of specimen collection.
  • Performs routine scheduled maintenance, cleaning and decontamination of instruments, equipment, and work areas not cleaned by Environmental Services personnel.
  • Exhibits appropriate professionalism and work ethic in accordance with Core Values.
  • The following duties are considered secondary to the primary duties listed above:
  • Answers telephone, takes requests for collection, information patient preparation, interpretation of doctors' orders , telephone reports to nursing stations and or doctors' offices when requested or when results of test warrant immediate notification. Searches for reports either in computer, work sheets or files.
  • Reports outdating reagent supplies, replenishes and rotates lab stock of consumable materials. Orders additional stock when needed. Prepares reagent solutions as directed. Logs incoming supplies.
  • Observes, reports unusual situations, reactions, and conditions to responsible person. Evaluates and implements corrective actions as indicated, within scope of experience.
  • Participates in structured and informal in-service and continuing education activities inside and outside the department to maintain current knowledge in related medical areas and interpersonal relationship.
  • Accepts assignment to weekend and holiday rotation, occasional "stat" call-in, to maintain workflow as required.
  • Participates in the on-call responsibilities for this position as required.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities:
  • Minimum Required Qualifications:
  • High school diploma GED.
  • Bachelor's Degree with 24 semester hours of science 6 hours Chemistry, 6 hours Biology and 12hours semester hours of Chemistry, Biology or medical laboratory technology.
  • One 1-year Laboratory experience preferred.
Credentials:
Education or Equivalent Experience:
  • Bachelor of Arts or Science (Required)
  • H.S. Diploma/GED (Required)
We believe that the best care for our patients starts with the best care for our employees. Our employee benefits programs help our employees get healthy and stay healthy. We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits program that includes one of the finest prepaid tuition assistance programs in the region. Penn Medicine employees are actively engaged and committed to our mission. Together we will continue to make medical advances that help people live longer, healthier lives.
Live Your Life's Work
We are an Equal Opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, familial status, genetic information, domestic or sexual violence victim status, citizenship status, military status, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable law.

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