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Laboratory Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Manager

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$33K - $39K/yr

The Laboratory Manager will work closely with the Principal Investigator, trainees, and research staff to maintain laboratory infrastructure, facilitate ongoing research projects, and ensure ...

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Laboratory Trainee information

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$13

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$36

How much do laboratory trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are laboratory trainees?

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.
More about Laboratory Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Laboratory Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Laboratory Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs are:
What states have the most Laboratory Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Laboratory Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Operations Trainee - Ellsworth

Operations Trainee - Ellsworth

The Jackson Laboratory

Ellsworth, ME

$19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


The Jackson Laboratory rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Full-Time Trainee Warehouse/Operations positions available! No prior experience necessary and training is provided. Starting wage is $19.25/hour!

The Operations Trainee program offers a great career with no experience necessary. We will provide the training you need for a successful career working at The Jackson Laboratory. Working under direct supervision, this position is responsible for participating in the acquisition, sanitation, distribution, and minor maintenance of all equipment and supplies required for operation of animal facilities. In smaller work groups, the incumbent may be responsible for one or more areas of responsibility as outlined below.

Our Animal Care operations in Ellsworth, Maine is currently undergoing a massive expansion! NOW is an excellent time to join us!

  • Receive excellent pay - $19.25 per hour starting pay
  • Receive regularly scheduled pay increases with the ability to increase your pay 25% in 2 years!
  • Take advantage of extensive opportunities for career growth and advancement with the Lab.
  • Take advantage of robust educational opportunities including genetics, lab animal science, and leadership courses onsite as well extensive hands on
  • Receive tuition reimbursement support for college degrees.

Please speak with your JAX recruiter for more details.

Note: This is a physical job that requires successful candidates to be comfortable on their feet for long periods while working in a fast-paced work environment, often involving the use of ladders for tasks such as reaching high shelves or accessing equipment at elevated heights.

Responsibilities:

  • Operates tunnel washers, bottle washing machines, decapping machines and rack washers
  • Sanitizing soiled supplies and equipment into the CSA
  • Organizes floor area receiving soiled materials and equipment
  • Performs maintenance on pallets
  • Complies with all safety procedures and policies
  • Quality control all materials and equipment to ensure optimal standards

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Ability to perform physical tasks on a regular basis, including manipulating heavy objects, climbing step ladders, pushing, pulling, and regularly lifting of up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records
  • Ability to learn sanitation methods to meet criteria needed to maintain the health status and ensure the well-being of mice
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive, team player behavior

Successful candidates will clear a pre-employment physical and background check.

#CA-EH8

About JAX:

The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California),Japan andChina. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.

Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visitwww.jax.org.

EEO Statement:

The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.


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