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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Union, MO (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Pacific, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Associate or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related field. * Preferred: Up to 1 year of food manufacturing laboratory or quality assurance experience ...

Quality Technician

Festus, MO · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Associate degree in Chemistry, Laboratory Technology, or a related technical field; or equivalent experience in an industrial laboratory setting (preferably cement, lime industry or similar)

Quality Technician

Festus, MO · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Associate degree in Chemistry, Laboratory Technology, or a related technical field; or equivalent experience in an industrial laboratory setting (preferably cement, lime industry or similar)

Quality Technician

Festus, MO · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Associate degree in Chemistry, Laboratory Technology, or a related technical field; or equivalent experience in an industrial laboratory setting (preferably cement, lime industry or similar)

Graduated from a school of nursing (Associate's Degree, Diploma, or BSN). Licensure: Is personally responsible for obtaining, and maintaining, a current RN license within the hiring state and/or ...

Associate degree, technical diploma, or equivalent applied training in mechanical, electrical, or industrial technology * 2+ years of experience operating or maintaining industrial or laboratory test ...

Cardiac Cath Lab RN in Festus, MO

Festus, MO · On-site

$2.1K - $2.8K/wk

Graduated from a school of nursing (Associate's Degree, Diploma, or BSN). Licensure: Is personally responsible for obtaining, and maintaining, a current RN license within the hiring state and/or ...

Showing results 21-38

Laboratory Associate information

See Union, MO salary details

$11

$20

$30

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Union, MO is $20.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 cities near Union, MO are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs?

Cities near Union, MO with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Associate job openings in Union, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,764 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

$17.25 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Dairy Farmers Of America rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 167 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 65 rated farming


Job description

General Purpose
Ensure the safety and quality of finished liquid ice cream mix by performing analytical, sensory, and microbiological testing. Support process control through CIP/COP verification, allergen testing, sanitizer checks, and instrument calibration review. Collect, organize, and test samples; manage incubation; and plate samples to detect microbial contamination. Accurately document and report results, promptly escalate out-of-spec findings, and deliver valid test results in a timely manner. Ensuring that products are produced and distributed to the highest food safety and quality standards.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Collect, organize, incubate, move, and test samples in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Perform sensory and quantitative analysis on production sample to verify product specifications.
  • Analyze taste, odor, color, pH, TA, particles, viscosity, Fat%, TS%, and homogenization of product samples.
  • Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation as directed.
  • Notify supervisor and production immediately of any out-of-specification results; enact out-of-spec. procedures.
  • Maintain and complete required documentation (paper and electronic) accurately and legible each shift.
  • Participate in shift huddles to anticipate the required testing and prevent production delays due to QA.
  • Analyze incubated products for presence of microbial biomarkers. Plate samples on petrifilm as required.
  • Verify CIP/COP with ATP quick swabs.
  • Perform daily cleaning and weekly inventory checks.
  • Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues.
  • Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.
  • Position may require the ability to work weekends and holidays.
  • The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but are not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent coupled with food manufacturing, laboratory, food testing, quality assurance, or related work experience.
  • Preferred: Associate or bachelor's degree in food or Dairy Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related field.
  • Preferred: Up to 1 year of food manufacturing laboratory or quality assurance experience preferred
  • Obtaining certifications is mandatory for continued employment in this position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Familiar with cGLP and all applicable laboratory equipment.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office and company computer systems.
  • Understands and applies calculations used in laboratory analysis.
  • Able to follow laboratory procedures and comply with state and federal regulations for product testing.
  • Maintains accurate, legible, and organized records.
  • Follows verbal and written instructions.
  • Able to work with accuracy, attention to detail, and minimal supervision.
  • Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Collaborates effectively, supports teamwork, and shares relevant information promptly.
  • Identifies problems and reports issues appropriately.
  • Able to read, write, and speak English.

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans

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