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Laboratory Trainee Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Core Laboratory Technician This position provides technical support in the Core Laboratory to ... Ability to demonstrate performance of job duties to trainees. * Demonstrate personal integrity ...

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Laboratory Trainee information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$22

$38

How much do laboratory trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory trainee in Portland, OR is $22.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Trainee job openings in Portland, OR 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, with an average salary of $46,652 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

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Re-posted 11 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

The School of Dentistry shares the mission of the Oregon Health & Science University to provide educational programs, basic and clinical research, and high quality care and community programs. We strive to foster an environment of mutual respect where the free exchange of ideas can flourish. The dental school prepares graduates in general dentistry and the dental specialties to deliver compassionate and ethical oro-facial health care.

Read more about the School of Dentistry: OHSU School of Dentistry 

Function/Duties of Position

Program Overview: Endodontic Internship ("Redshirt" Program)

The Endodontic Internship is a funded, 12-month, full-time program designed for licensed dentists who have a demonstrated interest in endodontics and intend to apply to an accredited Advanced Education Program in Endodontics. The program provides structured immersion in endodontic education at an academic health science center-offering clinical, didactic, and scholarly experiences that closely parallel those of postdoctoral residency training.

This program is distinct from the OHSU Advanced Education Program in Endodontics. Participation does not confer, imply, or guarantee acceptance into the AEPE. Candidates interested in the Advanced Education Program must apply independently through ADEA PASS. The Endodontic Internship is intended to strengthen the candidate's preparation for the next admission cycle.

Function and Duties of the Position

The Endodontic Intern holds an appointment at the instructor trainee rank and provides services in furtherance of the Division's missions in education and patient care. The position reports to the Division Head with duties that:

Clinical Education and Patient Care

  • Provide supervised clinical endodontic treatment in the predoctoral endodontic clinic, urgent care clinic, to include non-surgical root canal therapy, pulpal diagnosis, and emergency management 
  • Assist in the direct oversight, chairside instruction, and evaluation of DMD students delivering endodontic care
  • Participate in case triage, treatment planning conferences, and interdisciplinary consultations

Didactic and Academic Activities

  • Participate in postgraduate didactic courses, seminars, and journal clubs as an auditor or contributing presenter
  • Attend and contribute to the current literature seminar (ENDO 505B), classic literature seminar (ENDO 505A), and Case Presentation series (ENDO 555)
  • Assist with preparation and delivery of DMD didactic content under faculty direction
  • Participate in hands-on laboratory sessions and skills-based workshops
  • Attend guest lectures, interdepartmental seminars, and continuing education activities hosted by the division

Professional Development

  • Engage with professional organizations including the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) and Oregon Dental Association
  • Participate in community outreach activities in support of professional development and community oral health
  • Scholarly activity (e.g., case reports, literature reviews) may be pursued at the discretion of the Division Head
  • Foster a work environment of belonging, diversity, inclusion, and respect 

Applicants must submit the following materials through the OHSU HR portal:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • Personal statement (500-750 words) describing interest in endodontics and career goals
  • Three professional references (at least one from a dental school faculty member)
  • Official dental school transcripts
  • Copy of dental license or documentation of eligibility

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The program accepts one intern per cycle, beginning July 1. Application deadline: June 15.

Required Qualifications
  • D.D.S. or D.M.D. from a CODA-accredited dental school, or equivalent credential recognized by the Oregon Board of Dentistry
  • Eligibility to obtain an unrestricted Oregon Dental License or Faculty License prior to the start date
  • BLS from AHA required. New hires will be enrolled in an OHSU training course and will be required to complete the course during the onboarding process
  • Demonstrated interest in endodontics, as evidenced by a personal statement and professional references 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Nitrous oxide or minimal sedation certification
  • Prior endodontic continuing education or hands-on postdoctoral coursework
  • Demonstrated academic performance and leadership during dental school
  • Intent to apply to an ADEA PASS-accredited Advanced Education Program in Endodontics 
Additional Details

Applicants must submit the following materials through the OHSU HR portal:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • Personal statement (500-750 words) describing interest in endodontics and career goals
  • Three professional references (at least one from a dental school faculty member)
  • Official dental school transcripts
  • Copy of dental license or documentation of eligibility

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The program accepts one intern per cycle, beginning July 1. Application deadline: June 15.

Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887