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Laboratory Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

National Dentex

Dental Lab Technician Trainee

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are seeking to fill a number of key positions within our organization including this Dental Lab Technician Trainee opportunity at NDX Davis Dental Laboratory in Wyoming, MI. The regular hours for ...

NDX

Dental Lab Technician Trainee

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$15.50/hr

We are seeking to fill a number of key positions within our organization including this Dental Lab Technician Trainee opportunity at NDX Davis Dental Laboratory in Wyoming, MI. The regular hours for ...

Hurley Medical Center

HUC Trainee-ICU

Flint, MI · On-site

$2.0K - $2.7K/wk

... Trainee and a Health Unit Coordinator program -OR- Nursing Assistant certificate program ... Prepares requests for laboratory, radiology or other services/treatments as warranted by physician ...

Hurley Medical Center

HUC Trainee-ICU

Flint, MI · On-site

$2.0K - $2.8K/wk

... Trainee and a Health Unit Coordinator program -OR- Nursing Assistant certificate program ... Prepares requests for laboratory, radiology or other services/treatments as warranted by physician ...

Hurley Medical Center

HUC Trainee-ICU

Flint, MI · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Prepares requests for laboratory, radiology or other services/treatments as warranted by physician ... Trainee and a Health Unit Coordinator program -OR- Nursing Assistant certificate program.

NDX

Dental Lab CAD CAM Technician Trainee

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$16/hr

We are seeking to fill a number of key positions within our organization including this Dental Lab CAD CAM Technician Trainee opportunity at NDX Davis Dental Laboratory in Wyoming, MI . The regular ...

NDX

Dental Lab CAD CAM Technician Trainee

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$20/hr

We are seeking to fill a number of key positions within our organization including this Dental Lab CAD CAM Technician Trainee opportunity at NDX Davis Dental Laboratory in Wyoming, MI . The regular ...

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Laboratory Trainee information

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 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.

How to become a laboratory trainee with no experience?

To become a laboratory trainee with no experience, focus on gaining basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant skills through online courses or certifications. Volunteering or assisting in related environments can also provide practical exposure and improve your chances of securing a trainee position.

How to get work experience in a laboratory?

To gain work experience as a laboratory trainee, seek internships, volunteer positions, or entry-level roles in laboratories to develop practical skills. Completing relevant coursework, certifications, and familiarizing yourself with laboratory equipment and safety protocols can also enhance your qualifications.

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 Trainee jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Laboratory Trainee job openings:

Laboratory Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Trainee job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Laboratory Manager - Lab of Peter Laird

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Van Andel Institute
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Van Andel Instituteexternal

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead and coordinate the day-to-day operational activities of the laboratory, ensuring efficient workflows and resource allocation.

  • Participate in and facilitate laboratory research projects, including experimental planning, execution, troubleshooting, and interpretation of results.

  • Supervise, train, mentor, and support laboratory personnel, students, and trainees while fostering a collaborative team environment.

Job description

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.
The Van Andel Institute has a position available for a full-time Laboratory Manager under the direction of Peter W. Laird, Ph.D.
The Laird Laboratory focuses on the role of epigenetics in cancer, inflammation, and aging, combining mechanistic studies in model systems, analysis of human cancer tissues, advanced technology development, and epigenomic data analysis.
Position Summary
The Laboratory Manager serves as a key operational and scientific partner to the Principal Investigator, providing day-to-day leadership for laboratory operations while contributing directly to research programs. The successful candidate will coordinate personnel, resources, research projects, external collaborations, purchasing, equipment, and laboratory workflows while maintaining a hands-on approach to scientific problem-solving.
In this role, you would be Dr. Laird's right-hand person in the laboratory and tasked to:
Lead and coordinate the day-to-day operational activities of the laboratory, ensuring efficient workflows, appropriate resource allocation, and a well-organized research environment.
  • Participate in and facilitate laboratory research projects, including experimental planning, execution, troubleshooting, and interpretation of results.
  • Initiate improvements to laboratory organization, sample tracking and storage.
  • Successfully execute independent research projects and contribute to the development and optimization of laboratory methods and workflows.
  • Supervise, train, mentor, and support laboratory personnel, students, and trainees while fostering a collaborative, high-performing team culture.
  • Coordinate complex research initiatives involving internal departments, clinical and hospital partners, biobanks, vendors, and external collaborators.
  • Coordinate and draft complex regulatory documents for research compliance.
  • Manage purchasing, laboratory inventory, equipment acquisition and maintenance, vendor relationships, and other operational resources.
  • Contribute to managing grants, laboratory budgets, project timelines, and funding-related requirements.
  • Develop and implement standardized procedures and operational systems that improve efficiency, consistency, communication, and research quality.
  • Ensure laboratory activities are conducted in accordance with institutional, regulatory, safety, and funding requirements.

You should have curiosity about science and research and be self-driven, efficient, motivated, organized, and comfortable balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.
The position will require you to possess the following skills:
  • Strong hands-on experience in biological science research, with the ability to independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret experiments.
  • Experience supporting cancer, epigenetics, molecular biology, cellular biology, human tissue, or related biomedical research programs.
  • Ability to learn, perform, and troubleshoot a range of laboratory techniques and adapt to new technologies and methodologies.
  • Strong project and operational management skills, including the ability to coordinate complex initiatives across multiple teams and competing timelines.
  • Experience supervising, training, mentoring, or coordinating laboratory personnel, students, and trainees.
  • Experience with laboratory purchasing, budgeting, inventory management, equipment acquisition, and vendor coordination.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate scientific and operational information to audiences with varying technical backgrounds.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; experience with additional project management, data analysis, or laboratory information systems is desirable.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in biological sciences or a related field; a Master's degree is preferred.
  • At least 5 years of biological science research experience, preferably including hands-on bench research and increasing responsibility for laboratory operations, projects, or personnel.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while maintaining attention to detail and research integrity.
  • Experience working collaboratively with scientists, clinical or research partners, administrative departments, vendors, and other stakeholders.
  • Proven ability to take initiative, work independently, solve complex problems, and identify opportunities for process improvement.
  • Strong organizational skills and a demonstrated ability to maintain streamlined laboratory operations, including supplies, purchasing, equipment, documentation, and workflows.
  • A self-driven and hard-working individual who has a strong curiosity about basic and translational science.
  • A collegial team member with the ability to interact effectively and cordially with colleagues and collaborators.

Description of a Successful Candidate:
  • A "team" focused scientist who enjoys working collaboratively and contributing to shared research goals.
  • An efficient manager with strong organizational skills.
  • A self-motivated and driven individual who can take responsibility for the independent management of projects, laboratory operations, and people.
  • A detail-oriented researcher who thinks critically to effectively design experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, and solve complex research problems.
  • A strong ability to take initiative, prioritize competing demands, and work independently.
  • A collaborative, hands-on researcher who proactively shares knowledge and expertise with lab members.
  • An organized and dependable leader who builds effective relationships across scientific, clinical, administrative, and external partner groups.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Compensation and Benefits
All full-time employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One! The salary you can expect in this role is based on your experience and skills.
How to Apply
If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today!
  • A cover letter describing how this position aligns with your goals, your experience, and how you might contribute to Laird Lab's success.
  • An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae.
  • A list of 2-3 individuals who have agreed to act as references along with their contact details.

Please contact Megan Doerr at Megan.Doerr@vai.org for further information or questions, or if you have any difficulty with the application process.
About Van Andel Institute
Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute's scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson's and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K-12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.
VAI is committed to excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration.
Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer.
As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process. This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines.
About Grand Rapids, MI
Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile. A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It's fun affordable and family-friendly.
Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.

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