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Laboratory Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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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 Minnesota?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Minnesota are:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Trainee job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Technical Specialist - Laboratory

Fairview Health Services

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$90K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Fairview Health Services rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 250 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

135th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Overview
This position is expected to be available Monday-Friday during normal business hours with flexible start times and scheduling when appropriate. There will be occasional weekend work when traveling or during activation. There is an expectation to be available to come in for activations. This position is to support the Special Pathogen Unit at M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Medical Center - West Bank, with focus on High Consequence Infectious Diseases.
This position is funded by a grant awarded through the federal government that is renewed on a 5 year cycle. Guaranteed employment is only as long as the grant is funded.
The Technical Specialist has direct responsibilities for the technical operations of a laboratory or laboratory section. This includes acting as technical resource, performing a wide variety of complex diagnostic procedures, and directing workflow to ensure the accurate, efficient, and most cost-effective provision of testing. This position is also a primary resource for compliance, regulatory and quality assurance activities.
Responsibilities
  • Assumes responsibility for the technical operations of assigned laboratory(s)/section(s) and participates in planning and financial management as appropriate. • Directs workflow in the daily operations of a laboratory section and is a technical resource for staff in problem solving and in the evaluation of testing results for accuracy, determining when recheck or other intervention is needed. This may include directly communicating results to provider to investigate and resolve incongruent results. • May be responsible for method development research, instrument correlation, and method validation. • Assures the performance of accurate testing. • Performs laboratory information systems functions; ensures that change requests are communicated to LIS. • Acts as resource for laboratory information systems (LIS) functions coordinating change and implementation requests as needed. • Ensures LIS changes are implemented once made. • Participates in system standardization teams.
  • Performs a wide variety of complex diagnostic procedures including waived, moderate, or high complexity testing as defined by CLIA '88. • Performs a wide variety of complex diagnostic procedures including waived, moderate, or high complexity testing as defined by CLIA '88. • Functions independently in performing all major work responsibilities of professional laboratory practice. • Operates laboratory instrumentation and information systems according to procedures. • Completes specified maintenance on instruments.
  • Recognizes problems and takes appropriate measures to resolve them: • Performs a wide variety of complex diagnostic procedures including waived, moderate, or high complexity testing as defined by CLIA '88. • Functions independently in performing all major work responsibilities of professional laboratory practice. • Operates laboratory instrumentation and information systems according to procedures. • Completes specified maintenance on instruments.
  • Recognizes problems and takes appropriate measures to resolve them: • Acts as a resource for problem solving, action steps and troubleshooting for lab procedures and unexpected events in lab operations. • Initiates proper safety or emergency responses. • Consults with supervisor/manager if unable to resolve issues. • Exercises critical thinking to maintain and improve department productivity and efficiencies. • Assists supervisor/manager in designing, implementing, and evaluating new work processes or methods.
  • Demonstrates understanding of and commitment to Laboratory Quality Assurance, Performance Improvement and Laboratory Compliance Programs: • Partners with key stakeholders to ensure appropriate quality and performance measures are in place to meet any policy, compliance, or regulatory requirements. • Coordinates the preparation of the lab section for inspection by accrediting agencies. • Documents deviations and action taken. • Takes action to evaluate and resolve QC outliers. Consults with supervisor/manager for assistance if needed. • Assumes responsibility for the lab Performance Improvement program by suggesting areas for improvement, collecting data, reviewing the results, and recommending action steps to be taken. • Documents compliance with and demonstrates working knowledge of regulations of governmental or voluntary agencies. • Collaborates with the customers of the laboratory to promote appropriate use of laboratory resources.
  • Orients and mentors' new employees and students: • Orients individuals in laboratory operations including routine and complex testing methodology, instrumentation, and laboratory information systems. • Responsible for monitoring and documenting the progress of the orientation and training; provides feedback to trainee. • Completes training checklists and evaluations as appropriate. • Assists supervisor/manager in developing learning plans. • Checks work prior to release.

Required Qualifications
  • Baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited college/university in a related laboratory field including the related lab practicum or equivalent routes meeting qualifications as either a general supervisor for high complexity testing or a technical consultant for moderate complexity testing (dependent upon specialty) as specified in CLIA '88.
  • Bachelor of Science from an accredited college/university in chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology. (Diploma with field of study listed or transcript must be provided); or
  • B.S./B.A. from an accredited college/university with 16 semester hours in biology including one semester in microbiology and 16 semester hours in chemistry including one semester in organic or biochemistry meeting qualifications as a general supervisor for high complexity testing as specified in CLIA '88. (Transcript must be provided); or
  • Combination Education & Experience including completion of a 50-week U.S. military medical laboratory training course and a Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college/university with 16 semester hours in biology including one semester in microbiology and 16 semester hours in chemistry including one semester in organic or biochemistry meeting qualifications as a general supervisor for high complexity testing as specified in CLIA '88. (Transcript must be provided); or
  • Master of Science from an accredited college/university in molecular biology, biotechnology, chemistry, biology, cytology, immunology, immunohematology, microbiology, allied health, medical laboratory science, or an appropriately related field meeting qualifications as a general supervisor for high complexity testing as specified in CLIA '88. (Diploma with field of study listed or transcript must be provided)
  • 1 year laboratory training or experience, or both, in high complexity testing required for candidates with baccalaureate or higher degree in chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology when filling a CLIA General Supervisor role; or
  • 1 year laboratory training or experience, or both, in moderate complexity testing required for candidates with baccalaureate or higher degree in chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology when filling a CLIA Technical Consultant role; or
  • 2 years laboratory training or experience, or both, in high complexity testing required for candidates qualifying by baccalaureate degree and semester hours.
  • Applicant should possess or be eligible to receive appropriate Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) approved laboratory certification. • Labs-Acute Care - ° ASCP, ASCPi, or AMT - MLS or MT ° HEW Medical Technologist certification may be considered within 1 Year.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 2 years experience in high consequences infectious diseases testing.
  • Strong public speaking and presentation skills
  • Demonstrated ability to present information clearly and confidently to audiences
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary healthcare teams and build collaborative relationships with physicians, RNs, laboratory staff, EMS personnel, and other healthcare professionals preferred.

Benefit Overview
Fairview offers a generous benefit package including but not limited to medical, dental, vision plans, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, PTO and Sick and Safe Time, tuition reimbursement, retirement, early access to earned wages, and more! Please follow this link foradditional information: https://www.fairview.org/careers/benefits/noncontract
Compensation Disclaimer
The posted pay range is for a 40-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). The actual rate of pay offered within this range may depend on several factors, such as FTE, skills, knowledge, relevant education, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, our organization values pay equity and considers the internal equity of our team when making any offer. Hiring at the maximum of the range is not typical. If your role is eligible for a sign-on bonus, the bonus program that is approved and in place at the time of offer, is what will be honored.
EEO Statement
EEO/Vet/Disabled: All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to any lawfully protected status

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About Fairview Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Fairview Health Services is an industry-leading, award-winning nonprofit that offers an entire network of healthcare services. Fairview is one part of M Health Fairview, a partnership between the University of Minnesota, M Physicians and Fairview Health Services. Together, we combine the University's deep history of clinical innovation and training with Fairview's extensive roots in community medicine. Our care portfolio includes community hospitals, academic hospitals, primary and specialty care clinics, senior facilities, facilitated living centers, rehabilitation centers, home health care services, counseling, pharmacies and benefit management services.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US