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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

WakeMed

Medical Laboratory Scientist I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

EOE Licensure American Society for Clinical Pathology Preferred National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel Certification Preferred Education Associate's Degree Medical Laboratory ...

Naveris

Molecular Laboratory Technician (NC)

Durham, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Bachelor's degree in Laboratory Science/Medical Technology or in the chemical, molecular, or biological sciences; or Associates degree in Laboratory Science/Medical Technology or in the chemical ...

Adecco

Laboratory Assistant 2

Durham, NC

$25.42/hr

Maintain accurate, real-time records of bioassays and rearing activities in Laboratory Information ... Required: Associate degree or coursework in Entomology, Biology, Agriculture, or a related ...

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All JobsLaboratory Associate JobsLaboratory Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Laboratory Associate information

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$33

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Raleigh, NC 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laboratory Associate, and why are they important?

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.

How much does a Laboratory Assistant earn?

Laboratory Assistants typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often involves working with laboratory equipment and following safety protocols.

What are Laboratory Associates?

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a laboratory associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions require an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or medical technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

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 highest paying laboratory job?

The highest paying laboratory jobs are often senior roles such as Laboratory Director, Principal Scientist, or Research Manager, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions typically offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually and involve overseeing laboratory operations, research projects, and compliance. Specialized fields like pharmaceutical or biotech research tend to have higher compensation levels for experienced professionals.

What do lab associates do?

Laboratory associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining lab equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory settings, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need certifications or training in safety protocols.

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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Associate jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Laboratory Associate jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Associate jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Associate jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:
Laboratory Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Associate job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,227 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Medical Laboratory Scientist I / Medical Laboratory Scientist II (Hybrid Posting) - Core Labs

Medical Laboratory Scientist I / Medical Laboratory Scientist II (Hybrid Posting) - Core Labs

UNC Health Careers

Smithfield, NC • Hybrid

$26.85 - $38.61/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description

Your passion belongs at UNC Health. Join more than 56,000 teammates working together to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve across North Carolina.

Summary:

This hybrid posting recruits for either a Medical Laboratory Scientist I or Medical Laboratory Scientist II, depending on candidate qualifications and experience. Performs a variety of patient testing and administrative tasks in support of the clinical activities in the UNCHCS. 

Responsibilities:

  1. Performs waived/point of care, moderate, and high complexity CLIA testing as appropriate to role and demonstrated competency. 
  2. Investigates and resolves problems with equipment, test results, specimens, and/or workflow. 
  3. Performs quality control, proficiency testing, and monitors the accuracy and precision of laboratory testing. 
  4. Prepares reagents and assists in the preparation of standard and control materials. 
  5. Monitors reagent inventory and assists with maintaining laboratory supplies. 
  6. Reviews test results to ensure accuracy of reporting and timely correction of errors. 
  7. Reports laboratory results and consults/confers with healthcare providers as needed. 
  8. Participates on teams and/or performs special projects or assignments. 
  9. Participates in the education and training of new employees and other learners, as appropriate to role. 
  10. Serves as a technical resource and works under direction or independently based on experience level. 
  11. Performs other duties as assigned. 


Other Information

Qualifications - Medical Laboratory Scientist I 

Education: 

  • Bachelor's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science, or Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Biological Science, or Associate's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technology 

Experience:

  • No prior professional laboratory experience required

Qualifications - Medical Laboratory Scientist II

Education: 

  • Bachelor's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science, or Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Biological Science, or Associate's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technology 

Licensure/Certification: 

  • Associate's Degree holders: MLT (ASCP) or MLT (AMT) required 
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Biological Science: ASCP categorical certification in specialty area required 
  • Bachelor's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science: MT/MLS (ASCP) or MT/MLS (AMT) required 

Experience:

  • Associate's Degree with MLT certification: Two (2) years of experience required 
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Biological Science with categorical certification: Two (2) years of experience required 
  • Bachelor's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science with MT/MLS certification: No experience required 

Job Details

Legal Employer: NCHEALTH

Entity: Johnston Health

Organization Unit: Core Lab

Work Type: Per Diem

Standard Hours Per Week: 4.00

MLS I: Salary Range: $24.98 - $35.91 per hour (Hiring Range)

MLS II: Salary Range: $26.85 - $38.61 per hour (Hiring Range)

Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity

Work Assignment Type: Onsite

Work Schedule: Variable

Location of Job: US:NC:Smithfield

Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: No


This position is employed by NC Health (Rex Healthcare, Inc., d/b/a NC Health), a private, fully-owned subsidiary of UNC Heath Care System. This is not a State employed position.


Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran or political affiliation.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.

Employment Type:

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