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Quality Lab Associate Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Quality Lab Associate information

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How much do quality lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality lab associate in Athens, AL is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $24.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Quality Lab Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quality Lab Associate, you need a solid background in laboratory procedures, analytical testing, and quality assurance, usually supported by a degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments like HPLC/GC, and relevant certifications such as GMP or ISO standards is often required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication enable you to identify problems, maintain accurate records, and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the integrity of test results, regulatory compliance, and overall product quality in laboratory environments.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, senior roles such as Laboratory Director or Chief Scientific Officer tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and may involve overseeing multiple labs or research programs.

What does a Quality Lab Associate do?

A Quality Lab Associate is responsible for performing laboratory tests and analyses to ensure that products meet established quality standards and regulatory requirements. This role typically involves preparing samples, operating laboratory equipment, recording data, and reporting results to supervisors or quality managers. They may also assist in investigating deviations or non-conformities and help maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment. Quality Lab Associates play a critical role in maintaining product safety and consistency, particularly in industries like pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, or manufacturing.

What do lab associates do?

A Quality Lab Associate conducts tests and inspections on products, raw materials, or samples to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications. They use laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and document test results accurately, often working in a controlled environment and requiring attention to detail and sometimes certifications in quality management or laboratory procedures.

What are some common challenges Quality Lab Associates face when working with cross-functional teams?

Quality Lab Associates often collaborate with production, R&D, and regulatory teams to ensure product quality and compliance. A common challenge in this environment is effectively communicating technical laboratory findings to non-technical stakeholders, which requires clear documentation and presentation skills. Additionally, balancing multiple project deadlines while maintaining strict adherence to quality standards can be demanding. Building strong relationships and understanding the goals of other departments can help overcome these challenges and foster smoother workflows.

What is the difference between Quality Lab Associate vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectQuality Lab AssociateQuality Control Technician
CertificationsOften requires a degree in science or related field; certifications like ASQ are a plusSimilar requirements; certifications like ASQ are common
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, performing tests and analysesLaboratory and production environment, conducting inspections and tests
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food, and biotech industriesCommon in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food industries

Both roles involve testing and ensuring product quality, often requiring similar educational backgrounds and certifications. The main difference lies in their focus: Quality Lab Associates typically perform routine testing and data recording, while Quality Control Technicians may also conduct inspections and troubleshoot quality issues on the production line.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a Quality Lab Associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring an associate's degree or higher in a science-related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with testing equipment; certifications such as OSHA training may also be beneficial. Prior experience in a laboratory setting can be advantageous but is not always required for entry-level positions.

Who gets paid more, MLS or MLT?

In the medical laboratory field, Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) typically earn higher salaries than Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) due to advanced education and certification requirements. MLS professionals often have a bachelor's degree and perform more complex testing, which is reflected in their higher pay scale.
What are popular job titles related to Quality Lab Associate jobs in Athens, AL? For Quality Lab Associate jobs in Athens, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Quality Lab Associate jobs in Athens, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Quality Lab Associate jobs in Athens, AL are:
Infographic showing various Quality Lab Associate job openings in Athens, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,903 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Medical Laboratory Technician - Float

Medical Laboratory Technician - Float

OneOncology LLC

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


OneOncology rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Clearview Cancer Institute is north Alabama's leading cancer treatment facility. For over 30 years Clearview Cancer Institute has provided leading-edge treatment and compassionate care to those diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders. Clearview offers every service and amenity needed in an outpatient setting and our dedication to research and involvement in Phase I-IV clinical trials gives our patients the opportunity to receive potentially life-saving treatment options.
Why Join Us? We are looking for talented and highly-motivated individuals who demonstrate a natural desire to support the meaningful work of community oncologists and the patients we serve.
Job Description:
Job Purpose
The Medical Laboratory Technician performs moderate and high complexity laboratory procedures to provide clinical information for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.
Essential Job Functions
Technical:
  • Successfully perform all phases of laboratory testing: pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytics processes
  • Perform specimen processing including verifying proper sample labeling and specimen collection requirements.
  • Know specimen acceptability and rejection criteria for testing and troubleshoot problems relating to specimen analysis.
  • Evaluate results in LIS system and perform delta checks.
  • Process and distribute lab reports to appropriate individuals and institutions.
  • Receive and inventory supplies and reagents according to lab protocol.
  • Detect, troubleshoot, and correct instrument reagent and system failures, perform calibrations and preventative maintenance on equipment.

QA/QC/Regulatory:
  • Report lab results within established turnaround times
  • Document critical values and corrected results in the LIS and notify physician staff.
  • Follow Westgard rules, and recognize shifts/trends occurring on Levy-Jennings charts.
  • Document out of range quality control values and take corrective action.
  • Participate in continuous improvement activities, examine existing processes/procedures, and look for ways to improve them.
  • Complete necessary documentation when specimen variance or adverse events occur
  • Perform competency testing as required.
  • Adhere to all regulatory standards within the clinical laboratory.

Safety/Organizational/Productivity:
  • Follow institution's safety procedures.
  • Follow Universal Precautions, wear PPE.
  • Acts independently and accepts responsibility of the clinical laboratory's policy and procedures.
  • Oversee performance of Laboratory Assistants as needed.
  • Complete 12 hours of continuing education annually.

Communication/Teamwork:
  • Maintain positive working relationship with fellow staff and clinic personnel.
  • Must be able to interact well with patients, employees, physicians and management.
  • Answer questions from patients, physicians, and nursing staff regarding clinical laboratory.

Qualifications
  • Must have excellent organizational skills, be able to prioritize and manage tasks in a timely and effective manner
  • Must have excellent communication skills, both oral and written
  • Willing to adapt to a flexible schedule and work environment

Education
  • Associate's Degree in Laboratory Science with MLT certification from a recognized credentialing agency.
  • Must have (2) years' experience in a clinical laboratory setting.
  • Must have basic computer skills.

Working Conditions
This position works in the clinical laboratory of a busy outpatient oncology/hematology clinic. This person will be required to work closely with coworkers and management. This position requires that the employee handle bodily fluids and chemicals daily.
Physical Requirements
This position requires that the employee be able to stand and walk for long periods of time, up to eight hours a day. This position also requires that the employee be able to perform mild physical labor to complete the tasks at hand.
Direct reports
This position is not a supervisory position.

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