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Clinical Lab Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Lab Associate I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$18.39/hr

Lab Associate I - Chantilly, VA, Thursday to Monday, 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM Department ... Spec Chem - LCMSMS - Clinical Laboratory This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting ...

Lab Associate I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$18.39/hr

Lab Associate I - Chantilly, VA NIGHT SHIFT: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM Department ... Special Chemistry - LCMSMS - Clinical Laboratory This non-licensed position is accountable for ...

Clinical Lab Assistant III Job Code: LA3454 Schedule: Shifts are 8 hours per day, Monday through ... Clinical Laboratory Associate III Duties: Performs duties above and beyond CLA II.Actively ...

Participates in safety rounding and reporting within the clinical laboratories. * In ambulatory ... Maintains required documentation for all lab procedures. * Processes requisitions for testing.

Clinical Associate

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$18 - $29.74/hr

About the Job MedStar Health is looking for a Clinical Associate to join our team at MedStar ... May perform lab draws, EKGs and event monitor hook-ups. • Participates in population management ...

Clinical Associate - PRN

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$18 - $29.74/hr

Mondays to Wednesdays from 8:30AM to 5:30PM MedStar Health is looking for a Clinical Associate to ... May perform lab draws, EKGs and event monitor hook-ups. * Participates in population management ...

Associates or higher degree preferred. * Minimum of one-year relevant experience as a Laboratory Assistant with Clinical lab/histology experience desired. Knowledge, Competencies & Skills: * Ability ...

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Clinical Lab Associate information

See Washington salary details

$14

$35

$62

How much do clinical lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab associate in Washington is $35.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $47.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical lab associate?

A clinical lab associate is a healthcare professional responsible for performing laboratory tests on patient samples to assist in diagnosis and treatment. They typically handle specimen processing, operate laboratory equipment, and follow safety protocols, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of laboratory procedures.

Where do CLS get paid the most?

Clinical Lab Associates tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare industries, such as major metropolitan areas. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the size of the employer, with larger hospitals and private labs often offering higher pay.

What are some common challenges faced by Clinical Lab Associates, and how can they be managed?

Clinical Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining accuracy under time constraints, and adhering to strict regulatory standards. Effective time management, meticulous attention to detail, and consistent communication with team members are crucial in overcoming these hurdles. Many labs provide ongoing training and support to help staff stay current with best practices and emerging technologies, ensuring that associates can deliver reliable results in a fast-paced environment.

What are Clinical Lab Associates?

Clinical Lab Associates are healthcare professionals who assist in the preparation, processing, and analysis of laboratory specimens. They work under the supervision of laboratory technologists or scientists to ensure tests are conducted accurately and efficiently. Their responsibilities often include specimen collection, data entry, equipment maintenance, and quality control. Clinical Lab Associates play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring patient health by supporting laboratory operations.

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

A Clinical Lab Associate needs a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, usually supported by a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), automated analyzers, and standard laboratory safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate test results, efficient workflow, and compliance with regulatory standards, which are critical to patient care and laboratory operations.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a clinical lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate degree or certification in clinical laboratory science. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and knowledge of safety protocols. Certification or training may be required depending on the specific role and employer.

What is the difference between Clinical Lab Associate vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical Lab AssociateMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certification often preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology; certification usually required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, processing, basic testing, data entryPerforming complex tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment
Industry UsageCommonly employed in healthcare settings for sample handlingMore involved in testing procedures and analysis

While both roles support laboratory operations, Clinical Lab Associates typically focus on sample collection and basic processing, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. The choice depends on your education level and desired responsibilities within the lab environment.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

A clinical lab associate or lab assistant typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often working in hospital or diagnostic laboratory settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Lab jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Clinical Lab jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Associate job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,302 per year, or $35.7 per hour.
Lab Associate I

Lab Associate I

Quest Diagnostics

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$18.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description


Lab Associate I - Chantilly, VA, Thursday to Monday, 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM
Department: Spec Chem - LCMSMS - Clinical Laboratory
This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with general support for the laboratory, following all applicable policies and procedures.
Pay range: $18.39+ per hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

Responsibilities
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Investigates and resolve missing samples in the department.
  • Respond to "code purple" and document findings.
  • Trainer for the department Lab Assistants and completes training/competency checklists as appropriate.
  • Resolves pending list in coordination with Lab Assistants and Medical Lab Scientists.
  • Liaison for the department and technical support
  • Creates manual testing worksheets in the department.
  • Maintains files for department records.
  • Report problems/potential problems to the supervisor.
  • Special projects and other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • Assist with the department Improvement Program.
  • Coordinates obtaining samples for Instrument Comparisons, reagent lot testing method comparisons, etc.
  • Perform routine instrument maintenance on some equipment, under direct and constant supervision. Activity must be signed-off by license-qualified personnel.
  • Assist in preparation of chemicals, reagents and solutions that do not require quantitative measurement.
  • Prepares and organizes samples for testing, for example, sample racking, aliquoting and tube preparation.
  • Responsible for labeling, handling, processing or preparation, and transportation and storage of specimens.
  • Identifies sample problems and assists in resolving appropriately.
  • Assists license-qualified personnel or delegated supervisor (non-CA) in the pre-analytic and post- analytic testing activities, other than trainees, in a licensed clinical laboratory.
  • Prepares and maintains complete and accurate records of reagents or media using established procedures, formulas, stock solutions and fixed volume measuring devices.
  • Maintains inventory of consumable items including reagents and supplies. Orders, unpacks, logs, dates and stores reagents/supplies upon receipt and properly rotates stock for use. Performs inventory of laboratory items including restocking the benches and equipment inventory.
  • Sorting and accessioning incoming specimens into appropriate LIS, then delivering to designated testing.
  • Tallies workload data and prepares reports as requested.
  • Assists in the performance of quality control procedures.
  • Prepares protocols/logs or other appropriate documents.
  • Identifies specimen problems and demonstrates ability to appropriately resolve or elevate to license-qualified personnel or delegated supervisor (non-CA).
  • Answers phones, transfers, or takes accurate messages. Maintains the confidentiality of client information.
  • Helps to ensure the laboratory areas are neat, clean, and organized.
  • Complies with all health and safety policies, procedures, and practices. Required to use personal protective equipment.
  • Other duties as assigned. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities, but rather a general description of work performed by the position.

Qualifications
Education Preferred:
  • High School Graduate or equivalent required.
  • 2-3 years of college courses preferred.

Work Experience:
  • Minimum 2 years of laboratory experience preferred

Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • The normal performance of duties may require lifting and carrying objects. Objects in the weight range of 1 to 10 pounds are lifted and carried frequently; objects in the weight range of 11 to 25 pounds are lifted and carried occasionally and objects in the weight range of 26 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted and carried. Objects exceeding 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance.
  • Performs repetitive tasks with dominant hand.
  • Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods.
  • Have good eye and hand coordination.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
  • Knowledge of medical terminology helpful.
  • Ability to work independently, employing research skills and flexibility.
  • Ability to deal with client information in a confidential manner.
  • Broad knowledge of laboratory operations and procedures.
  • Ability to establish work priorities and to handle several tasks for maximum department efficiency.
  • Contact with clients will be required, good customer service skills important.
  • A working knowledge of reagent stability and storage.
  • An awareness of the factors that influence test results.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Application (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Strong typing skills desirable.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with management, co-workers, and clients.
  • Other automation skills helpful.

About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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