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Laboratory Trainee Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Scientist II

Lexington, KY · On-site

$53K - $87K/yr

The successful candidate will provide scientific leadership and oversee projects involving laboratory staff, graduate students, and research trainees. Responsibilities include evaluating research ...

... laboratory, clinic, and community discoveries into inventions that improve the health of ... The program focuses on one-on-one instruction and mentoring, enabling trainees to gain direct ...

... laboratory, clinic, and community discoveries into inventions that improve the health of ... The program focuses on one-on-one instruction and mentoring, enabling trainees to gain direct ...

Certified Pharmacy Tech

Benton, KY · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

... laboratory measuring devices in preparing and measuring out the amount specified; presents the ... Assists the Pharmacy Supervisor in training Pharmacy Technician Trainees in the day-to-day duties ...

Certified Pharmacy Tech

Benton, KY · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

... laboratory measuring devices in preparing and measuring out the amount specified; presents the ... Assists the Pharmacy Supervisor in training Pharmacy Technician Trainees in the day-to-day duties ...

Laboratory Trainee information

How can I start working in a laboratory trainee?

To become a laboratory trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require basic knowledge of laboratory techniques or science subjects. Gaining relevant skills through coursework, certifications, or internships can improve your chances, and applying to entry-level positions or training programs at laboratories is the next step.

What is the difference between Laboratory Trainee vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory TraineeLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed relevant education; may lack formal certificationUsually holds a diploma or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, learning-focusedOperational laboratory environment, performing routine tests
Employer & Industry UsageInternships, training programs, entry-level positionsFull-time staff in healthcare, research, or industrial labs

In summary, a Laboratory Trainee is often a student or newcomer gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Laboratory Technician is a trained professional responsible for routine lab tasks. The trainee role emphasizes learning, whereas the technician role involves independent work with established skills.

What is a laboratory trainee?

Laboratory trainees are individuals who are in the early stages of learning how to work in a laboratory environment. They typically assist with basic tasks such as preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and following standard laboratory procedures under supervision. The goal is to gain practical experience and develop the necessary skills for a career in laboratory science. Laboratory trainees may be students, recent graduates, or individuals transitioning into laboratory work from other fields.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can a laboratory trainee expect during their initial months on the job?

As a Laboratory Trainee, you will typically start by learning and assisting with basic laboratory procedures such as sample preparation, equipment calibration, and maintaining accurate records. You’ll work closely with experienced technicians and scientists, supporting them in conducting experiments and following safety protocols. Over time, you will be gradually introduced to more complex tasks and given opportunities to take on independent work as your skills develop. This hands-on experience, combined with mentorship, helps trainees build a strong foundation for advancement within the laboratory environment.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Trainee, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and usually a background in science or a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data entry systems, and adherence to quality control standards are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and effective communication skills make a candidate stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate results, maintaining safety, and supporting efficient laboratory operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Kentucky are:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Trainee job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Plant Operator Trainee Program (2026-2027)

Jefferson County Public Schools

Louisville, KY • On-site

$16.13 - $19.24/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Jefferson County Public Schools (Kentucky) rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

425th of 622 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Position Type:
Housekeeping/Plant Operators
Date Posted:
8/4/2026
Location:
C B YOUNG
Closing Date:
08/11/2026
PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE PROGRAM
Job Description
Working Calendar: 261 Days/ 8.0 Hours
Salary Schedule 1B Grade 2 - This salary schedule is for internal candidates only, external candidates must enter into sub custodial pool at sub custodial rate.
SALARY PAY RANGE : $16.13 - $19.24/hr
Crtiical Need Stipend $3.50 per hour
INTERNAL CANDIDATES
At this time applications for this custodial opening are being accepted from presently employed custodians, sub-custodians, and JCPS employees with the required housekeeping training.
The purpose of the Plant Operator Trainee Program is three-fold: (1) to provide formal and on-the-job training, for a minimum of sixty-five (65) workdays, designed to prepare personnel for Plant Operator positions, (2) to provide substitutes for temporarily absent Plant Operators, and (3) to provide skill enhancement opportunities for custodial employees.
The following procedures apply to the program:
  1. The Plant Operator Trainee Program is by application only. Applicants must have the following minimum qualifications:
    1. High School Diploma, G.E.D.
    2. Two (2) years of current experience as a custodian in a school environment or comparable experience in business and industry
    3. Working knowledge or ability to understand heating, ventilation and air conditioning units
    4. Ability to perform preventative maintenance tasks
  2. Applicants having the minimum qualifications listed above will be given consideration for admission to the Program based on the following:
    1. A satisfactory score on the written Plant Operator test (SAGE) (must be on file or to schedule a SAGE test, call 485-3400.)
    2. The recommendation of their current supervisor, or if not presently employed, their most recent employer (no disciplinary action in last 12 months)
    3. The recommendation of an interview committee

3. Applicants selected for participation in the program, will be classified as Custodian Floater and placed at the appropriate salary grade for the position. They will receive five (5) days of classroom and training laboratory instruction. Those successfully completing this five (5) days of instruction will then be provided sixty (60) days of on-the-job Plant Operator training, thirty (30) days of which will be in elementary schools and thirty (30) days in secondary schools. All training assignments will be made by Housekeeping Services.
4. At the end of this sixty (60) day training period, successful Trainees will return to a custodial assignment or remain in the custodial pool until they are selected for a permanent position. Unsuccessful Trainees will be returned either to their previous assignment or to the first available custodial vacancy. Custodians that have completed the Plant Operator Trainee Program, but are not selected for a Plant Operator position within two (2) years of completing the training will be required to reapply to the plant Operator trainee program.

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