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Wet Lab Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

FWI is looking for a Wet Lab Carbon Technician to join the team supporting NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) - the nerve center for harmful algal bloom detection, hypoxia ...

Wet Lab Carbon Technician

Ann Arbor, MI ยท On-site

$19 - $25/hr

FWI is looking for a Wet Lab Carbon Technician to join the team supporting NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) - the nerve center for harmful algal bloom detection, hypoxia ...

FWI is looking for a Wet Lab Carbon Technician to join the team supporting NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) -- the nerve center for harmful algal bloom detection, hypoxia ...

Wet Lab Lead Technician

Ann Arbor, MI

$19 - $25/hr

As the Wet Lab Lead Technician, you will design and lead water quality sampling programs across the Great Lakes, maintain a diverse nutrient/limnology laboratory, and mentor technical staff through ...

Wet Lab Lead Technician

Ann Arbor, MI ยท On-site

$39.21/hr

As the Wet Lab Lead Technician, you will design and lead water quality sampling programs across the Great Lakes, maintain a diverse nutrient/limnology laboratory, and mentor technical staff through ...

Lab Technician

Ypsilanti, MI

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Perform basic wet chemistry, including titrations, pH testing and adjustment, metal precipitation, and polymer dosing and pumping. * Analyze chemistry test results and determine appropriate bath and ...

Job Summary A wet-lab postdoctoral position is available immediately in the Zhang Lab | University of Michigan Medical School (Department of Radiation Oncology) to join a highly collaborative team ...

RNA diagnostics The successful candidate will be expected to conduct wet-lab molecular biology, tissue culture, and high throughput screen experiments. Knowledge of bioinformatic analyses is ...

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Wet Lab information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$19

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How much do wet lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for wet lab in Michigan is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an example of a wet lab experience?

A wet lab experience for a Wet Lab job typically involves performing experiments that require liquids, chemicals, or biological materials, such as preparing samples, running assays, or analyzing biological specimens using laboratory equipment like pipettes, centrifuges, and microscopes. It often includes following safety protocols and documenting procedures accurately.

What is a Wet Lab job?

A Wet Lab job involves conducting experiments that require handling liquids, chemicals, biological samples, or other wet materials in a controlled lab environment. Wet lab scientists and technicians perform tasks such as sample preparation, chemical mixing, and data analysis to support research in fields like biology, chemistry, and medicine. These roles typically require knowledge of lab safety protocols, proper equipment usage, and scientific techniques.

What is the meaning of wet lab work?

Wet lab work involves conducting experiments and procedures in a laboratory setting that require the use of liquids, chemicals, or biological materials. It typically includes tasks such as preparing solutions, running tests, and analyzing samples using equipment like microscopes and pipettes.

What is it like to work in a wet lab?

Working in a wet lab involves handling biological or chemical materials, often requiring the use of lab equipment such as pipettes, microscopes, and centrifuges. The environment is typically sterile and safety protocols are strictly followed, with roles often requiring attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certifications in safety procedures. The work can be physically demanding and may involve irregular hours depending on research or project deadlines.

What is the highest paid lab job?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Principal Scientist, Laboratory Director, or Research Manager tend to be the highest paid positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities within research or development teams.

What are the typical daily responsibilities in a Wet Lab position?

In a Wet Lab position, your daily tasks may include preparing and running experiments, analyzing samples using specialized equipment, maintaining and calibrating instruments, and accurately recording data in lab notebooks or digital systems. You will also be responsible for keeping the lab clean and organized, adhering to safety protocols, and properly storing chemicals and biological materials. Collaboration is common, as you may work with other lab technicians, scientists, or research teams to support ongoing projects. This hands-on role is ideal for those who enjoy problem-solving and actively contributing to exciting scientific advancements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Wet Lab position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Wet Lab role, you need a solid understanding of laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and scientific methodology, often supported by a degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with instruments like pipettes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, and lab management software is typically required, along with knowledge of compliance standards such as GLP or OSHA. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for managing experiments and collaborating with teammates. These qualities are essential to ensure accurate results, maintain a safe and organized lab environment, and contribute effectively to research objectives.

Infographic showing various Wet Lab job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,846 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Wet Lab Carbon Technician

Wet Lab Carbon Technician

FedWriters, Inc.

Ann Arbor, MI โ€ข On-site

$39.21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Overview
If you love the rigor of the analytical bench as much as you love the idea that your data helps protect one-fifth of the world's surface fresh water, this role is built for you. FWI is looking for a Wet Lab Carbon Technician to join the team supporting NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) - the nerve center for harmful algal bloom detection, hypoxia tracking, and carbon cycle research across the Great Lakes. You'll run the instruments, own the QA/QC, and help turn raw lake-water samples into the datasets that inform how we understand and protect this critical freshwater ecosystem.
As the Wet Lab Carbon Technician, you will perform routine and complex wet chemistry analyses on water and sediment samples - with a focus on organic and inorganic carbon fractions - in direct support of GLERL's harmful algal bloom and ecosystem research. You'll split your time between precision benchwork in the lab and hands-on fieldwork aboard NOAA research vessels, giving you a rare mix of steady lab craft and open-water adventure.
Responsibilities
  • Perform routine and complex wet laboratory chemical analyses on water and sediment samples, focusing on organic and inorganic carbon fractions (TOC, DOC, DIC, POC) and related nutrient parameters in support of HABs and ecosystem research
  • Prepare chemical reagents, standard solutions, and specialized glassware/plasticware, adhering to strict laboratory cleanliness and quality protocols
  • Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and perform routine preventative maintenance on core laboratory analytical equipment (e.g., TOC analyzers, spectrophotometers, fluorometers, filtration apparatus)
  • Execute rigorous laboratory QA/QC procedures, accurately document instrument performance, maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, and manage chemical inventories and Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
  • Log, track, and preserve incoming field samples collected from GLERL research vessels, autonomous vehicles, and the real-time observation network
  • Conduct vacuum filtrations for chlorophyll-a, phycocyanin, particulate organic carbon, and total suspended solids, managing subsequent extraction and analysis processes
  • Process, review, and perform initial quality control checks on analytical datasets; upload finalized data into designated GLERL databases and archives
  • Assist research scientists and engineers with field data and sample collection on NOAA small boats and GLERL research vessels during seasonal monitoring cruises (typically May to November)
  • Collaborate with technical staff to draft and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), data summaries, and quality management records
  • Assist in developing figures, charts, and technical summaries of carbon and bloom data for research communications, technical publications, and presentations
  • Safely operate basic material handling equipment and adhere to all NOAA environmental health and safety regulations within the wet lab facility

Qualifications
Required:
  • BS degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, environmental science, limnology, or a closely related scientific discipline
  • Demonstrated experience working in a wet chemistry laboratory environment handling environmental samples
  • Experience with basic laboratory instrumentation and data entry software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace)
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to lift and carry a 50 lb load to assist with sample coolers and field gear
  • Ability to perform field work and handle sample collection on marine vessels
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and safely within a laboratory setting, function as part of a technical team, and strong interpersonal and communication skills

Desired:
  • Two or more years of experience working in an analytical chemistry or biogeochemistry wet lab focused on aquatic environments
  • Hands-on experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining carbon analysis instrumentation, such as Total Organic Carbon (TOC/DOC) analyzers, Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC) analyzers, or elemental analyzers (CHN)
  • Experience with automated nutrient analyzers, spectrophotometers, fluorometers, and vacuum filtration systems
  • Experience working with and developing standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • Experience using certified reference materials (CRMs), creating standards based on SOPs, and calibration of instruments and sensors
  • Familiarity with QA/QC protocols, creating standard curves, running check standards, and tracking instrument drift
  • Experience processing and analyzing environmental datasets using programming languages such as Python or R
  • Experience working at sea or on research cruises within the Great Lakes or similar large aquatic systems
  • General knowledge of freshwater ecology, harmful algal bloom (HAB) dynamics, and carbon cycle biogeochemistry

Work Setting and Environment:
  • Primary location: NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL), 4840 S. State Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48108
  • Telework approved for tasks conducive to remote work, as scheduled with the COR and Technical Lead(s)
  • Full-time schedule (1,912 hours annually), Monday-Friday, flexible hours between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.; field operations may affect hours
  • Local Great Lakes field travel expected May-November; occasional meeting travel December-April; annual travel not anticipated to exceed 4%

FWI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.
Why Join Our Team
At FWI, we place the highest importance on creating an exceptional employee experience. You'll have opportunities to achieve your career aspirations through internal promotions, professional development, and other recognition and rewards programs. Join our team and take advantage of the many benefits we offer, including:
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Holiday Pay
  • Paid Time Off

Pay Range
Pay range is from 39.21/hr to 41.27/hr