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Temporary Lab Assistant Jobs in Minneapolis, MN (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

Laboratory Assistant Description The lab assistant is preparing the testing that is then performed ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

Lab Assistant

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Apply for Job Job ID 369033 Location Twin Cities Job Family Supplemental Employee Full/Part Time Part-Time Regular/Temporary Temporary Job Code 0001 Employee Class Civil Service Add to Favorite Jobs ...

Lab Assistant

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Apply for Job Job ID 369033 Location Twin Cities Job Family Supplemental Employee Full/Part Time Part-Time Regular/Temporary Temporary Job Code 0001 Employee Class Civil Service Add to Favorite Jobs ...

Lab Technician

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$21.63/hr

... * Assist in the application lab with more complex application techniques under guidance ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

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Temporary Lab Assistant information

See Minneapolis, MN salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do temporary lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary lab assistant in Minneapolis, MN is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary lab assistant?

Temporary lab assistants are individuals hired on a short-term basis to support laboratory operations. They typically assist with tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data. These positions are often used to help manage increased workloads or cover for permanent staff absences. Temporary lab assistants may work in academic, research, medical, or industrial labs, and usually require some background in science or laboratory procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary lab assistant?

To thrive as a Temporary Lab Assistant, you need basic laboratory skills, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or relevant coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data entry systems like LIMS is typically required. Strong organization, reliability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining accurate records, supporting research activities, and ensuring a safe and productive lab environment.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary lab assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Temporary Lab Assistants often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new protocols and equipment in unfamiliar laboratory environments. Since assignments are short-term, learning laboratory safety procedures and workflow expectations efficiently is crucial. Building good communication with permanent staff and asking clarifying questions can help Temporary Lab Assistants integrate smoothly and avoid errors. Staying organized and keeping detailed notes can also make transitions between tasks and shifts much easier.

What is the difference between Temporary Lab Assistant vs Lab Technician?

AspectTemporary Lab AssistantLab Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require relevant courseworkAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in laboratory sciences or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, hospitals, or clinicsLaboratories, research centers, hospitals, or industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, data entry, and basic lab tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining equipment, and recording results
Employment TypeTemporary, short-term, or contract basisFull-time, part-time, or contract roles, often permanent

Temporary Lab Assistants typically support laboratory operations with basic tasks and require minimal formal education, while Lab Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis, often requiring specialized degrees. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and credential requirements.

Can you get a temporary lab assistant job with no experience?

Temporary lab assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. However, having basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant coursework can improve chances of hiring. Some employers may prefer or require a high school diploma or equivalent.

How many hours do temporary lab assistants work?

Temporary lab assistants typically work between 20 and 40 hours per week, depending on the employer and project needs. Many are employed on a part-time basis, with schedules that can include evenings or weekends, and some positions may require flexible hours or short-term commitments.

How much does a temporary lab assistant get paid?

A temporary lab assistant typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on the location, level of experience, and the specific employer. Pay rates may also vary based on the complexity of tasks and whether certifications or specialized skills are required.
Infographic showing various Temporary Lab Assistant job openings in Minneapolis, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,843 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Actalent

Saint Paul, MN โ€ข On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 3 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Laboratory Assistant

Description

The lab assistant is preparing the testing that is then performed by the technologists. This includes organizing the samples, sample prep, and preparing reagents that are used in extractions as well as in the instruments. There is a lot of liquid chromotography based testing used in their field of work so this requires heavy amounts of buffer/reagent preperation work

The workflow is very fluid so someone needs to be comfortable changing tasks throughout the day based on business needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Locate and retrieve specimens (urine, blood, serum, plasma, oral fluid) for testing, aliquoting as needed; evaluate specimens and test orders; determine priority of work and batches to maintain acceptable turn around time

• Recognize unacceptable and unusual specimens and handle appropriately

• Adhere to SOP when preparing materials and specimens for both pre and post extraction

• Use GDP in all documentation

• Maintain a clean, well-stocked, organized work area

• Maintain clean glassware and extraction materials

• Maintain accurate records and documentation for all laboratory tests and equipment including, but not limited to, maintenance logs, temperature logs, disinfection logs and assay SOPs

• Support the preparation of laboratory reagents according to established department standard operating procedures and established time frames, as needed

• Deliver accurate high quality patient care while maintaining efficiency

• Participate in the instruction and training of others; demonstrate and/or explain the testing process to others or observe the testing process as performed by others

Additional Skills & Qualifications

HIgh school diploma- Ideally is working towards or has completed a Bachelors degree in science as this is a chemistry focused role

Ability to work in a fast paced environment

6+ months of laboratory experience (can be from school)

Multi-tasking skills are important (verified by references)

Experience Level

Entry Level

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of SAINT PAUL, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.50 - $20.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in SAINT PAUL,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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