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Biotechnology Lab Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Formulation Chemist

Middletown, VA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

The job opportunity is for one of our clients specializing in biotechnology product development ... Responsibilities * Design, test, and manufacture lab solutions. * Optimize current solution ...

Prepare for and participate in quality assurance audits, identify protocol deviations, and assist ... biotech sponsors. * In-depth working knowledge of GCP, GDA, and IRB requirements. * Hands-on ...

... and biotechnology? At Radiometer, one of Danaher's 15+ operating companies, our work saves lives ... Conduct annual customer business reviews of top accounts and assist in managing escalated accounts ...

Biotechnology Lab Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do biotechnology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for biotechnology lab assistant in Virginia is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Biotechnology Lab Assistants, and how can they be effectively managed?

Biotechnology Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, accurately managing samples and data, and adapting to rapidly changing experimental procedures. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are crucial for balancing multiple tasks and minimizing errors. Regular communication with supervisors and team members helps clarify expectations and ensures smooth workflow, while ongoing training can help assistants stay updated with new laboratory technologies and best practices.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a biotechnology lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring an associate degree or relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, or related fields. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are important, and some roles may require safety training or certifications such as OSHA or HIPAA depending on the environment.

What are Biotechnology Lab Assistants?

Biotechnology Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientists and researchers by performing routine laboratory tasks in biotechnology settings. Their responsibilities often include preparing samples, sterilizing equipment, conducting basic experiments, and recording data. They ensure that the lab runs smoothly and complies with safety and quality standards. Biotechnology Lab Assistants play a crucial role in research and development processes in industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science.

What is the difference between Biotechnology Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiotechnology Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree, relevant certificationsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentBiotech labs, research facilities, pharmaceutical companiesHospitals, research labs, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in biotech, pharmaceutical, and research industriesHealthcare, research, manufacturing sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles support laboratory operations, Biotechnology Lab Assistants typically focus on supporting research and experiments in biotech settings, often with less formal education. Laboratory Technicians usually have more advanced degrees and handle more complex testing and analysis across various industries. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their credentials and interests.

What skills do biotechnology lab assistants have?

Biotechnology lab assistants typically have skills in laboratory techniques such as pipetting, sample preparation, and data recording. They are familiar with laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and often have knowledge of molecular biology, microbiology, or biochemistry. Attention to detail, good communication, and the ability to work in a team are also important skills for this role.

How much do biotech assistants make?

Biotechnology lab assistants typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often involves working with laboratory equipment and following safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Biotechnology Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Biotechnology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of biology and chemistry, laboratory techniques, and typically an associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data analysis software like Microsoft Excel or LIMS is expected. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help you excel in team environments and ensure accuracy. These skills are vital for maintaining reliable experimental results and supporting the efficient operation of research projects.

What does a biotech lab assistant do?

A biotech lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and assisting with experiments and data collection. They often follow safety protocols, use laboratory tools like pipettes and microscopes, and may need basic knowledge of biology or chemistry. The role typically requires attention to detail and adherence to standard procedures in a research or clinical environment.
What are popular job titles related to Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Biotechnology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Biotechnology Lab Assistant job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,752 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Lab Technician or Specialist, Dolatshahi Lab - Biomedical Engineering

Lab Technician or Specialist, Dolatshahi Lab - Biomedical Engineering

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

179th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Dolatshahi laboratory in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Virginia is seeking a Laboratory Technician or Specialist to perform cellular and molecular biology experiments, coordinate clinical research, provide technical lab support, and manage collaborations. Our systems immunology lab investigates fundamental mechanisms of immune regulation and dysregulation, with an ultimate objective of identifying strategies to design and improve immunotherapies and vaccines. Motivated entry-level or experienced researchers are invited to apply. The successful candidate will participate as part of a collaborative research team which combines experimental and computational methods to study neonatal-maternal immunity and cancer . For a description of the lab's overall research interests, visit https://engineering.virginia.edu/faculty/sepideh-dolatshahi and https://dolatshahilab.com/ .
Responsibilities include:
  • Perform laboratory experiments such as performing cell culture, collecting and processing patient samples, primary cell isolation, biochemical and molecular biology experiments.
  • Evaluate experiment results using statistical analyses. Maintain digital reports of the results.
  • Provide routine, technical, logistical and administrative support to research projects; Order supplies and equipment for the lab, maintain an organized system of operation, prepare culture media and reagents, facilitate collaborations with other labs
  • Help develop protocols and IRB submissions.
  • Participate in weekly group meetings and assist in evaluating research methods and procedures based on established objectives. Assist Principal Investigator and lab members in developing new strategies and techniques for experimentation.
  • Consent patients, collect, screen, and verify data relating to human subject's research.
  • Perform library and literature research.
  • Assist with data management, visualization and analysis
  • May help author material for publications. May participate in presentations with Principal Investigators (PIs) at meetings or conferences.
  • In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties related to the smooth day-to-day lab function may be assigned.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Associate's degree and 2 years of experience, or, Bachelor's degree in biomedical or chemical engineering, biology, immunology, biotechnology or a related field plus 1 year of experience strongly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills and the ability to follow instructions.
  • Excellent communication skills, including with diverse audiences for recruitment and participant management efforts.
  • The ability to understand research processes and knowledge of general research procedures.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
  • Demonstrate expertise in troubleshooting problems and recommending solutions.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $19.23 - $26.44/hour ($40-55k annually), commensurate with education and experience.
This is a restricted position, continuation will be subject to the continued availability of funding and satisfactory performance.
This position is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. This is a full-time benefited position. For more information on the benefits at UVA, visit www.hr.virginia.edu/benefits .
The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. A completed pre-employment health screen is required for this position prior to employment.
Physical Demands: This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals. Also requires keyboarding and other benchwork and animal procedures requiring fine finger manipulation.
Application Process:
Please apply online , and search for R0084885. Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website . Complete an application online with the following documents:
  • CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission. Applications that do not contain all the required documents will not receive full consideration. This position is open until filled.
References will be completed via UVA's standardized process SkillSurvey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process. A minimum of three are required.
For information regarding the position or the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter, js9rk@virginia.edu.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819