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Biotechnology Lab Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC

Engineer I, Biochemical Manufacturing

Rockville, MD · On-site

$67K - $101K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Assist with the implementation of updated standard operating procedures. • Collaborate on ... EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Biotechnology, Chemistry ...

New

Showing results 21-27

Biotechnology Lab Assistant information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do biotechnology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for biotechnology lab assistant in Washington, DC is $22.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.11 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 is a biotechnology lab assistant?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, DC?

For Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Biotechnology Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Biotechnology Lab Assistant job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,680 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Engineer I, Biochemical Manufacturing

MSD

Rockville, MD • On-site

$67K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for using principles of biochemistry to design, develop, and validate a diverse range of biological processes. Responsible for improving and standardizing biochemical manufacturing processes utilizing FPLC and HPLC instruments within the Manufacturing department.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Design and test new ways to leverage biochemical principals for manufacturing process improvement initiatives that deliver better quality and/or quantity of products.
• Design equipment and software configuration to suit the product range and the process technologies.
• Assist with the implementation of updated standard operating procedures.
• Collaborate on equipment and software validation documents, and coordinate validation efforts.
• Collaborate on draft documents for technical transfer of new processes utilizing FPLC, HPLC, and/or other specialized instruments operated by the Biochemical Manufacturing team.
• Troubleshoot equipment including but not limited to FPLC and HPLC;
o Document troubleshooting steps and preventative measures to better streamline production processes.
• Collaborate with other specialists to ensure the efficient running of production facilities.
• Assist with technical training of manufacturing team members for new and updated processes.
• Ensure that potential safety issues related to environment and equipment are considered at all stages.
• Maintain preventative maintenance schedules for specialized lab equipment.
• Purify protein solutions via FPLC to prepare conjugation or coating solutions.
• Utilize HPLC to perform size exclusion chromatography analysis on customer samples in order to report percentages of monomer, aggregation, and free-tag.
• Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Biology or related field.
• One year of hands-on experience with FPLC or HPLC is required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Working knowledge of FPLC or HPLC required.
• Working knowledge of Äkta systems highly preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of scientific fundamentals and analytical background.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude that includes ability to troubleshoot equipment
• Demonstrated aptitude for learning and adhering to standard laboratory techniques and safety precautions.
• Ability to research scientific concepts, system and software capabilities and apply information.
• Knowledge of cGMP and/or ISO certification highly preferred.
• Excellent oral, written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Effectively communicate issues/problems and results that impact timelines, accuracy and reliability of laboratory data.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Ability to multi-task and work productively in a demanding manufacturing environment with changing priorities.
• Ability to learn additional software applications/tools, as required.
• Ability to work both independently and as an effective team member.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.
• Up to 80% of the day may be spent at a lab bench and/or in the cleanroom.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Standard industrial laboratory environment.
COMPENSATION SUMMARY:
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $67,900 to $101,000. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY:
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT:
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please click on the following link: https://www.mesoscale.com/en/our_company/careers/equal_employment_opportunity_statement.
Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.