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Laboratory Helper Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Manager

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$33K - $39K/yr

Job Summary The Laboratory Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Cuarenta research ... to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits ...

$97K - $127K/yr

We work hard, care deeply and reach further to help people uncover their own power to be healthy ... This position directs planning, organization, and operation of the laboratory services. The ...

Help saving for retirement, with a 401(k) plus a company match * A sense of belonging - we're a ... Laboratory Operations Company: Pinkus Dermatopathology Lab PC Sonic Healthcare USA is an equal ...

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Laboratory Helper information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$16

$25

How much do laboratory helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory helper in Michigan is $16.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Laboratory Helpers?

Laboratory Helpers are support staff who assist scientists, technicians, and researchers in laboratory settings. Their duties often include preparing and cleaning equipment, organizing materials, maintaining a clean work environment, and helping with basic experiments under supervision. They play a crucial role in ensuring that laboratory operations run smoothly and efficiently. While they typically do not conduct advanced experiments, their work is essential for the daily functioning of the lab.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laboratory Helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Helper, you need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and inventory management systems is often required. Reliability, good organizational skills, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate support for laboratory operations, maintain safety standards, and contribute to efficient workflow.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Laboratory Helper and how do they support the overall lab operations?

Laboratory Helpers play a crucial role in maintaining smooth lab operations by handling tasks such as preparing and cleaning equipment, organizing supplies, disposing of waste materials safely, and assisting senior technicians with basic experiments and sample collection. They often ensure that workspaces remain tidy and that essential materials are readily available, which helps minimize disruptions for scientists and researchers. By supporting routine functions and adhering to safety protocols, Laboratory Helpers contribute to an efficient and safe environment, allowing the research team to focus on more specialized tasks.

What is the difference between Laboratory Helper vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory HelperLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentPost-secondary education, often a diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentAssisting in labs, cleaning, preparing materialsPerforming tests, analyzing samples, operating lab equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in research, medical, and industrial labs for support rolesCommonly employed in clinical, research, and industrial labs for technical tasks

While both roles support laboratory operations, Laboratory Helpers primarily assist with preparatory and support tasks, whereas Laboratory Technicians perform more technical testing and analysis. The Technician role typically requires more formal education and technical skills, making it suitable for those seeking a more advanced position in the lab environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Laboratory Helper jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Laboratory Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Helper job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,150 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Laboratory Manager

Laboratory Manager

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$33K - $39K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description

How to Apply
A detailed cover letter is required for consideration when applying for this position and should be uploaded via the UM Careers website as the first page(s) of a single, electronic document of application materials that also includes your CV or resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline your skills and experience that directly relate to the duties described below.
Job Summary
The Laboratory Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Cuarenta research laboratory . This lab focuses on studying the effects of early life experiences on brain and behavior. This position is responsible for coordinating laboratory operations, animal research activities, regulatory compliance, and research support to ensure the efficient functioning of the laboratory. Responsibilities include managing laboratory inventories and purchasing, coordinating animal ordering and colony logistics, maintaining compliance with institutional and federal regulations, tracking laboratory expenditures, and supporting behavioral and molecular neuroscience experiments. The Laboratory Manager will work closely with the Principal Investigator, trainees, and research staff to maintain laboratory infrastructure, facilitate ongoing research projects, and ensure adherence to laboratory policies and procedures.
Responsibilities*
Laboratory Operations and Administration
  • Maintain laboratory inventories and coordinate purchasing of supplies and equipment
  • Manage laboratory organization, including freezer inventories, sample tracking, and record keeping.
  • Coordinate equipment maintenance, repairs, and service contracts
  • Develop and maintain laboratory operational procedures

Research Support
  • Assist with animal handling, behavioral testing, tissue collection, sample processing, and molecular assays
    • Behavioral tests include operant box behavioral testing, naturalistic behavioral assays
    • Molecular assays include qPCR, ddPCR, RNAscope, immunocytochemistry, and western blots
  • Maintain experimental records and assist with data organization and quality control
  • Assist in manuscript preparation

Animal Program Management
  • Coordinate animal ordering and colony logistics
  • Maintain animal records and coordinate with animal care personnel
  • Assist with planning and execution of animal-related laboratory activities

Regulatory Compliance including IACUC, safety, training records
  • Assist with preparation and maintenance of IACUC protocols, amendments, and compliance documentation.
  • Maintain laboratory training and safety records.

Budget Tracking and Purchasing
  • Track budgets, purchases, and vendor invoices
  • Track laboratory expenditures and purchasing activities
  • Assist with budget monitoring and financial recordkeeping

Required Qualifications*
  • High school diploma or Associate's degree and 1 to 2 years experience.
  • Experience coordinating laboratory operations, including inventory management, purchasing, equipment maintenance, and laboratory organization.
  • Experience with animal research and coordinating animal-related research activities.

Desired Qualifications*
  • Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, zoology, psychology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field is preferred.
  • 1-2 years experience preferred.
  • Experience with rodents is a plus.
  • Familiarity with regulatory compliance activities including IACUC protocols, animal research regulations, and laboratory safety procedures

Why Work at Michigan?
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:
  • Generous time off, including vacation time, sick time, holiday and season days
  • A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
  • Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Long-term disability coverage
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Additional Information
The salary range is $33,000 to $39,000. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience.
This is a 12-month term-limited position with the possibility of renewal. The anticipated start date is 2026.
As one of the world's great liberal arts and sciences colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.
To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision .
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
279095
Working Title
Laboratory Manager
Job Title
Research Tech Intermediate
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Nonexempt
Organizational Group
College Of Lsa
Department
LSA Psychology
Posting Begin/End Date
7/20/2026 - 8/03/2026
Salary
$33,000.00 - $39,000.00
Career Interest
Research

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About University of Michigan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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