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Sample Preparation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

P4 Sample Preparation Lead Hand

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$41.60K - $53.90K/yr

The Sample Preparation Technician (P4) is responsible for supervision of the Sample Preparation floor while on shift. The priority for this position will be to ensure that the department runs ...

Regional Sample Preparation Manager, USA At ALS, we encourage you to dream big. When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights ...

Regional Sample Preparation Manager, USA At ALS, we encourage you to dream big. When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights ...

Regional Sample Preparation Manager, USA At ALS, we encourage you to dream big. When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights ...

Regional Sample Preparation Manager - USA

Elko, NV

$75.30K - $101.30K/yr

The Regional Sample Preparation Manager, USA plays a critical role in ALS's hub-and-spoke operational model, overseeing six strategically located sample preparation laboratories (spokes) located in ...

The Regional Sample Preparation Manager, USA plays a critical role in ALS's hub-and-spoke operational model, overseeing six strategically located sample preparation laboratories (spokes) located in ...

Regional Sample Preparation Manager - USA

Reno, NV

$77.80K - $104.70K/yr

The Regional Sample Preparation Manager, USA plays a critical role in ALS's hub-and-spoke operational model, overseeing six strategically located sample preparation laboratories (spokes) located in ...

The Regional Sample Preparation Manager, USA plays a critical role in ALS's hub-and-spoke operational model, overseeing six strategically located sample preparation laboratories (spokes) located in ...

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Sample Preparation information

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How much do sample preparation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for sample preparation in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sample Preparation Technician, and why are they important?

To excel as a Sample Preparation Technician, you generally need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring additional lab-based coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, pipettes, and balances, as well as safety certifications like OSHA training, is often expected. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and the ability to follow precise instructions help individuals stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate and consistent sample processing, which directly impacts the reliability of laboratory analysis and results.

What are some common challenges faced in a Sample Preparation role, and how can they be addressed?

A common challenge in Sample Preparation is maintaining consistency and accuracy when handling diverse sample types, which may require different preparation techniques. Time management is also crucial, as samples often need to be processed within strict deadlines to support downstream analysis. To address these challenges, it's important to follow standardized protocols carefully, stay organized, and communicate effectively with lab colleagues to prioritize urgent tasks or troubleshoot issues. Regular training on equipment and safety practices also helps ensure high-quality results.

What is sample preparation?

Sample preparation is the process of treating and handling samples before they are analyzed in a laboratory setting. This step is crucial because it ensures that the sample is suitable for analysis, removing contaminants or interfering substances and sometimes concentrating the analyte of interest. Proper sample preparation helps achieve accurate and reliable results in various fields such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science. Techniques can include filtration, extraction, dilution, and homogenization, depending on the type of analysis required.

What is the difference between Sample Preparation vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectSample PreparationLaboratory Technician
Primary RolePreparing samples for analysis or testingPerforming tests and procedures on samples
CredentialsOften requires technical certifications or trainingTypically requires an associate degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesLaboratories, industrial settings
Industry UsageCommon in research, pharmaceuticals, environmental testingWidespread in healthcare, manufacturing, research

While both roles work within laboratory settings, Sample Preparation focuses on preparing samples for testing, whereas Laboratory Technicians perform the actual testing and analysis. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Sample Preparation jobs
What cities are hiring for Sample Preparation jobs? Cities with the most Sample Preparation job openings:
What states have the most Sample Preparation jobs? States with the most job openings for Sample Preparation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sample Preparation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 66% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,952 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Sample Preparation Technician (Entry Level)

AHK Group

Spartanburg, SC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

WHAT IS ON OFFER
AHK has an exciting opportunity for a Sample Preparation Technician to join our Laboratory based in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The Sample Preparation Technician is responsible for carrying out sample preparation procedures to a high degree of precision and accuracy on the various types of samples / commodities submitted to the laboratory for chemical analysis.
ABOUT US
Alfred H Knight is a totally independent, family owned business spanning five generations. A global network of strategically placed offices and laboratories enable global trade by providing independent inspection, analysis and consultancy services to the metals and minerals, solid fuels and agriculture industries.
We have honed & carefully crafted our reputation. Delivering knowledge and professionalism in all aspects of weighing, sampling and analysis. We thrive by continuing to re-invest in our facilities, technology and people. Click here to find out more about AHK.
RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensuring at all times that a high degree of accuracy and precision is applied to sample preparation procedures, through incorporating and promoting good laboratory practice principles.
  • Responsible for ensuring that work throughput is followed in accordance with documented methods and procedures. Inform management of any failure in compliance to documented methods.
  • Ensuring that all sample preparation equipment / instrumentation that the post holder uses on a regular basis is calibrated (where necessary) and kept clean and tidy at all times. Inform management where equipment / instrumentation is found to be working unsatisfactorily.
  • Ensuring that balance areas, milling equipment, and own work station are kept clean and tidy to minimize cross contamination of test samples, with unwanted material and debris being removed with due consideration to further contamination.
  • Undertaking other duties of an appropriate nature in consultation with their Laboratory Supervisor.
  • Maintaining a professional standard and appearance during office hours and while promoting the company when on Company business.
  • Ensuring the Company's Health & Safety policy is applied effectively in areas under the Post Holder's control.
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?
To be successful at Alfred H Knight, you will need to display the following:
  • Ability to demonstrate literacy and numeracy (ability to read and write in English and to perform basic mathematical calculations).
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • High attention to detail.
  • Ability to follow instructions.
  • A team player, working alongside others with positivity and respect.
  • Presenting a positive attitude and taking pride in their work.
  • High level of interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work with minimum supervision and be able to use own initiative.
  • A willingness to take full ownership of the role.
  • Ability to demonstrate a high degree of manual dexterity.
  • Good timekeeping.
  • Effective interpersonal skills.
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Physical Demands
  • The employee may need to stand or sit for long periods of time.
  • The employee is required to frequently walk.
  • The Employee may be required to wear a respirator for extended periods of time
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
BENEFITS
  • 401K. You can elect to make pre-tax contributions of between 1% to 84% of eligible earnings. The Company contributes 3% of salary per annum.
  • Medical. Yourself only - fully Company funded (dependents coverage is available at the employee's cost).
  • Dental. Yourself and dependents - fully Company funded.
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability Insurance. Fully Company funded.
  • Life Insurance. $80,000 total (as long as you are employed by AHK).
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance. Eligible employees may purchase additional Voluntary Life and AD&D insurance. Premiums are paid through payroll deductions.
  • Vision. Vision insurance is available at low cost for employees and dependents paid through payroll deductions.
  • AFLAC. Several supplemental programs are available to employees at their own cost paid through payroll deductions.