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Laboratory Helper Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

What you'll do * Support all laboratory sample-related activities, including preservation ... help us advance this important work. Benefits When you join Pace, you commit to work that makes a ...

What you'll do * Support all laboratory sample-related activities, including preservation ... to help us advance this important work. Benefits When you join Pace ® , you commit to work that ...

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Laboratory Helper information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$12

$16

$26

How much do laboratory helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory helper in Decatur, AL is $16.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory helper?

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 does a laboratory helper do?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a laboratory helper?

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 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 Decatur, AL?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Laboratory Helper jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Laboratory Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Helper job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,042 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Element Materials Technology rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Overview

Element has an opportunity for a Test Technician to join our rapidly expanding team.As a member of the operations team, the Test Technician position performs a variety of routine and non-routine testing assignments within the department assigned and insures timely and accurate test results under direct supervision.  The technician positions must be proficient in a number of core business skills including but not limited to compliance to established safety rules, code of conduct, and company policies and procedures.

Salary: $24- $30/hr DOE 

Responsibilities

Performs electrical and mechanical testing in accordance with established procedures using a variety of laboratory test equipment. Assembles, configures, and troubleshoots test setups, including electrical wiring, instrumentation, mechanical fixtures, and hydraulic connections required to support testing. Constructs, modifies, and maintains test fixtures, support equipment, and laboratory infrastructure to ensure reliable test execution. Performs preventive and corrective maintenance on laboratory equipment and facility systems, including pumps, hydraulic systems, bearings, valves, piping, and other mechanical equipment. Diagnoses mechanical and electrical issues with test equipment and performs repairs or coordinates corrective actions to minimize laboratory downtime. Operates under the supervision of senior technicians or a Department Manager on complex assignments while independently completing routine testing, equipment setup, and maintenance activities. Works closely with engineers, project managers, and other laboratory personnel to support test execution, equipment readiness, and project schedules. Gathers, records, and verifies accurate test data and documents maintenance and repair activities as required. Schedules and assists with the calibration, inspection, and upkeep of laboratory test equipment and instrumentation. Follows all safety procedures and practices, including lockout/tagout and safe operation of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical equipment, to maintain a safe working environment.

Skills / Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree, technical certification, or vocational training in Industrial Maintenance, Mechanical Technology, Electrical Technology, or a related field preferred. Ability to analyze, document, and compile data from testing and maintenance activities. Basic understanding of electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems and their operation. Proficiency with computers for data entry, documentation, and report generation. Ability to apply basic algebra and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems using sound technical principles. Hands-on experience assembling and configuring test setups, including electrical wiring, instrumentation, tubing, and mechanical fixtures. Experience performing preventive maintenance and repairs on pumps, hydraulic systems, bearings, valves, and other industrial mechanical equipment is preferred. Familiarity with electrical and mechanical test equipment, hand and power tools, and measuring instruments used in laboratory or industrial environments. Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, assembly instructions, and technical procedures. Ability to safely work around industrial equipment, including hydraulic systems, lifting equipment, and machinery, while following established safety procedures.

Physical Demands Requires moderate physical force and maneuvering in tight spaces. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs frequently and over 50 lbs occasionally. Ability to stand for extended periods during testing activities. Must be capable of performing periodic lifting and handling of heavy equipment or test articles.

Company Overview

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to 'Make tomorrow safer than today'.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

Diversity Statement

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER

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