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Associate Scientist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

This is a full-time, onsite, Chemistry Associate Scientist 1 position located in Morrisville, NC, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Compensation: $23.00 - $27.00 per hour The salary for ...

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Associate Scientist information

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$55

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in Raleigh, NC is $34.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.07 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I use my Associates in science degree for?

An Associate Scientist with a science degree can work in laboratories, research facilities, or quality control environments, performing experiments, data analysis, and sample testing. The degree provides foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, or related fields and often requires familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

Is an associate scientist entry level?

An associate scientist position is often considered an entry-level or early-career role in research and development, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. It involves performing experiments, data analysis, and supporting scientific projects, with opportunities for skill development and advancement. However, some organizations may require prior experience or specific certifications depending on the complexity of the work.

What degree do you need to be an associate scientist?

An associate scientist typically holds at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What are some common challenges an Associate Scientist might face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Associate Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to a faster-paced environment and focusing on project-driven outcomes rather than open-ended research. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on teamwork, meeting strict deadlines, and following standardized protocols. Adjusting to these expectations, learning new technologies, and effectively communicating results to cross-functional teams are key areas where new hires may need support.

What does an Associate Scientist do?

An Associate Scientist is a professional who supports research and development projects, typically in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results under the supervision of senior scientists. Associate Scientists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and product development by performing laboratory tasks, maintaining equipment, and following established protocols. Their work contributes to discoveries, quality control, and regulatory compliance within their organization.

What Is an Associate Scientist?

An associate scientist takes on more responsibilities than an assistant scientist, supporting research and each experiment under the lead scientist, often in a laboratory environment. As an associate scientist, there are many industries you can work in, including the research field where the lead scientist oversees your project, and you help author papers. Many pharmaceutical companies hire associate scientists to analyze samples to develop drugs and assist with preclinical and clinical studies. Private companies need you to produce specialty chemicals for their clients. Materials scientists at the associate level conduct research and test the properties of metals, plastics, and other materials for their use in new products and packaging. Some positions have duties that include training other team members and overseeing students and fellows.

What is the role of an associate scientist?

An associate scientist conducts research, experiments, and data analysis to support scientific projects within a laboratory or research environment. They often assist senior scientists, follow established protocols, and use laboratory tools and techniques to gather and interpret data. This role typically requires a relevant degree in a scientific field and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDTypically a Master's or PhD in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, governmentBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or mid-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, career progression

Associate Scientists and Research Scientists often work in similar environments within biotech, pharma, or academic sectors. The main difference lies in experience and educational requirements, with Research Scientists typically holding higher degrees and engaging in more independent or advanced research. Both roles are essential for scientific progress, but Research Scientists usually have more responsibility and autonomy in their projects.

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 generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable experimental outcomes, and productive collaboration within research or product development teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Associate Scientist job openings:
Medical Laboratory Scientist I / Medical Laboratory Scientist II - Special Hematology

Medical Laboratory Scientist I / Medical Laboratory Scientist II - Special Hematology

UNC HEALTH

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

$24.98 - $35.91/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Become part of an inclusive organization with over 40,000 teammates, whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of the unique communities we serve.
This position is eligible for the Clinical Laboratory Incentive Program.
Summary:
This hybrid posting recruits for either a Medical Laboratory Scientist I or Medical Laboratory Scientist II, depending on candidate qualifications and experience. This position performs a variety of patient testing and administrative tasks in support of the clinical activities in the UNCHCS. The MLS will assist with bone marrow collection, as well as performing complex specialty testing such as Hemoglobin/Thalassemia Profile on HPLC. They also work closely with clinical team and pathologists.
Schedule:
The standard schedule is Monday to Friday day shift hours and the technologist will be in a rotation to take afterhours and weekend "on-call" responsibility.
Responsibilities:
  1. Performs waived/point of care, moderate, and high complexity CLIA testing as appropriate to role and demonstrated competency.
  2. Investigates and resolves problems with equipment, test results, specimens, and/or workflow.
  3. Performs quality control, proficiency testing, and monitors the accuracy and precision of laboratory testing.
  4. Prepares reagents and assists in the preparation of standard and control materials.
  5. Monitors reagent inventory and assists with maintaining laboratory supplies.
  6. Reviews test results to ensure accuracy of reporting and timely correction of errors.
  7. Reports laboratory results and consults/confers with healthcare providers as needed.
  8. Participates on teams and/or performs special projects or assignments.
  9. Participates in the education and training of new employees and other learners, as appropriate to role.
  10. Serves as a technical resource and works under direction or independently based on experience level.
  11. Performs other duties as assigned.
Other Information
Qualifications - Medical Laboratory Scientist I
Education:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science, or o Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Biological Science, or o Associate's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technology

Experience:
  • No prior professional laboratory experience required

Qualifications - Medical Laboratory Scientist II
Education:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science, or o Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Biological Science, or o Associate's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technology

Licensure/Certification:
  • Associate's Degree holders: MLT (ASCP) or MLT (AMT) required
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Biological Science: ASCP categorical certification in specialty area required
  • Bachelor's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science: MT/MLS (ASCP) or MT/MLS (AMT) required

Experience:
  • Associate's Degree with MLT certification: Two (2) years of experience required
  • Bachelor's Degree in Chemical or Biological Science with categorical certification: Two (2) years of experience required
  • Bachelor's Degree in Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science with MT/MLS certification: No experience required

Job Details
Legal Employer: STATE
Entity: UNC Medical Center
Organization Unit: Special Hematology
Work Type: Full Time
Standard Hours Per Week: 40.00
MLS I: Salary Range: $24.98 - $35.91 per hour (Hiring Range)
MLS II: Salary Range: $26.85 - $38.61 per hour (Hiring Range)
Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity
Work Assignment Type: Onsite
Work Schedule: Day Job
Location of Job: US:NC:Chapel Hill
Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: No
This is a State position employed by UNC Health Care System with UNC Health benefits. If, however, you are presently an employee of another North Carolina agency and currently participate in TSERS or the ORP, you will be eligible to continue participating in those plans at UNC Health.
Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran or political affiliation.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.