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Associate Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Our diverse work portfolio includes broad accreditation offerings and tested insights across the environmental, food and nutrition and life science markets. JOB SUMMARY The Associate Scientist I ...

$60K - $76K/yr

With over an 80+ year legacy of advancing science and a mission of innovating for a healthier world ... Job Title Associate Gas Chromatography Analytics Scientist Location(s) Altria (East Jackson St ...

$60K - $76K/yr

With over an 80+ year legacy of advancing science and a mission of innovating for a healthier world ... Job Title Associate Chemical Analysis & Product Performance Scientist Location(s) Altria (East ...

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Associate Science information

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$10

$19

$32

How much do associate science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate science in Virginia is $19.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

In the associate science field, high-paying roles such as certain technical sales positions, commercial pilots, or specialized technicians can reach or exceed $200,000 annually, often requiring strong technical skills, certifications, or experience rather than a four-year degree. These roles typically involve hands-on work, industry-specific knowledge, and sometimes licensing or certification requirements.

What does a scientific Associate do?

A scientific Associate supports research and laboratory activities by collecting data, conducting experiments, and analyzing results. They often work under the supervision of scientists or researchers and may use tools like laboratory equipment and software to assist in scientific investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Scientist, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate experimentation, reliable results, and effective collaboration within research teams.

What kind of job can I get with an Associates in Social Science?

An Associate in Social Science prepares graduates for roles such as social services assistant, community outreach worker, case manager, or administrative support in social service organizations. These positions often require strong communication, research, and organizational skills, and may involve working with diverse populations or supporting social programs.

What are some typical daily tasks and collaborative responsibilities for an Associate Science professional in a laboratory setting?

Associate Science professionals in laboratory settings are commonly tasked with preparing and analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and documenting experimental results. They often collaborate closely with senior scientists and research teams to ensure experiments run smoothly and data is accurately recorded. Regular responsibilities may also include participating in team meetings to discuss findings and troubleshoot issues, as well as adhering to strict safety protocols. This collaborative and detail-oriented environment provides valuable experience for those looking to advance in scientific research careers.

What can I do with just an Associate's in science?

An Associate's in science prepares individuals for entry-level roles in fields such as laboratory technician, research assistant, pharmacy technician, or environmental technician. These positions often require basic laboratory skills, familiarity with scientific tools, and sometimes certification or on-the-job training.

What is the difference between Associate Science vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAssociate ScienceLaboratory Technician
CredentialsAssociate degree in Science or related fieldAssociate degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, research labs, healthcare facilitiesResearch labs, hospitals, industrial labs
Employer & IndustryColleges, universities, research institutions, healthcare providersMedical labs, biotech companies, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles require an associate degree, Associate Science professionals often work in educational or research settings, focusing on scientific education and research. Laboratory Technicians typically work in clinical or industrial labs, performing tests and supporting scientific experiments. The main difference lies in their work environment and specific job functions, though both roles share similar educational requirements.

What are Associate Science jobs?

Associate Science jobs typically refer to positions that require an Associate of Science (AS) degree, which is a two-year undergraduate degree focused on foundational science and math courses. Graduates often work as laboratory technicians, research assistants, environmental science technicians, or healthcare support roles. These jobs provide hands-on experience in scientific settings and can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or higher-level positions in science-related fields.
What are the most commonly searched types of Science jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Science jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Associate Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Associate Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Science job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,972 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Associate Scientist I

Microbac

Sterling, VA • On-site

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Come join our family! If you are interested in truly making a difference in a collaborative and rewarding work setting with a culture of respect, accountability, appreciation, and loyalty, Microbac might be the right place for you!

We offer a positive working environment with engaged and supportive leadership teams along with competitive pay and benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, generous paid time off including vacation, holidays and flextime, a wellness program, referral bonus, tuition reimbursement and more!

ABOUT MICROBAC

Microbac Laboratories, Inc. is a premier commercial laboratory testing firm that partners with clients nationwide, offering laboratory solutions to life science, food and nutrition, and environmental industries and serves our clients with the utmost expertise and respect for their market requirements, constraints, and challenges. We embody a company-wide commitment to exceptional customer experience, which has been refined by over 50 years of trusted, analytical and measurement experience.

As a privately held third-party testing company, Microbac operates with a commitment to our workforce, safety, quality, and compliance. Our diverse work portfolio includes broad accreditation offerings and tested insights across the environmental, food and nutrition and life science markets.

JOB SUMMARY

The Associate Scientist I, working in an accredited commercial laboratory, is responsible for assisting with the conduct of microbiological assays and associated activities to determine antimicrobial efficacy of household and commercial cleaning products.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Following established SOP’s and adhering to state, federal and other accrediting body requirements, collect information about the antimicrobial properties of substances/samples to support the analytical testing needs of our clients for such purposes as quantitative or qualitative analysis, and product development
  • Perform laboratory housekeeping duties to include autoclaving and glassware processing
  • Prepare necessary standards, solutions, reagents, media, etc., required for sample analyses
  • Perform equipment and instrumentation set up
  • Operate basic and specialized laboratory instrumentation
  • Prepare and analyze samples
  • Accurately record observations and data and interpret results
  • Assists in the development and validation of new analytical methods
  • Assists in the development of new laboratory procedures
  • Assist department supervisors and managers with staff training
  • Contribute to writing, editing, and reviewing SOP’s
  • Perform peer review of data to ensure accuracy
  • Maintain accurate, up to date logs, notebooks, and equipment records
  • Perform necessary laboratory administrative functions such as filing paperwork, photocopying, reviewing of data, and entering data into computerized LIMS
  • Comply with and promote Personnel, Safety, and Quality Program

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a four-year accredited institution in a related field of applied science
  • Prior analytical testing experience
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions and ask questions when necessary
  • Above average knowledge of principles, terminology, practices, techniques, and instrumentation commonly used in a laboratory setting
  • Ability to interpret data and prepare reports
  • Ability to effectively prioritize work and manage time to meet deadlines
  • Computer literacy
  • Ability to work with delicate laboratory equipment
  • Ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal formats

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical demands and working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Requirements:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools; talk or hear. The employee is required to stand, walk, and sit.
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include color vision and depth perception.

Working Conditions:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be in a general laboratory and office environment.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
  • This job may require travel less than 20%

As a privately held third-party testing company, Microbac operates with a commitment to safety, quality and compliance. Our diverse work portfolio includes broad accreditation offerings and tested insights across the environmental, food and life science markets.

OTHER:

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all duties an employee may be required to perform. Microbac reserves the right to revise the job description at any time.

Employment is at-will. Microbac, promotes a drug-free, alcohol-free workplace. Applicants considered for hire must pass a drug test before beginning work. Refusal to submit to testing will result in disqualification of further employment consideration.

Microbac is an Equal Opportunity Employer – We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.