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Clinical Lab Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

IVF Lab Assistant

Vienna, VA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Associates degree or higher preferred. * Medical lab experience preferred. * Computer database ... This job operates in a professional office and clinical setting. This role routinely uses standard ...

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Associate's degree in science from a college/university recognized by regional or national ... Or three years of full-time acceptable clinical experience for eligibility for Medical Lab ...

Medical Technologist, Core Lab

Arlington, VA · On-site

$34.79 - $56.37/hr

Responsible for performing all procedures on a rotation basis in the clinical department on a ... Associate degree in a related field or completion of training in medical technology is required.

Lab Tech II/Phlebotomy

Columbia, MD · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Reviews lab requisitions for accuracy and collects pertinent clinical and insurance information ... with related Associates or Bachelor's degree in science or healthcare. With successful ...

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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 Technician III - Essex

$46K - $77K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Community College Of Baltimore County rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Class Description The purpose of this class is to support Science Instructional laboratories and to perform the associated duties. Minimum Requirements An Associate's degree from an accredited institution with at least 12 credit hours in basic sciences, along with a minimum of two (2) years of experience as a laboratory technician or student lab aide in biology and/or chemistry research, clinical, instructional, or industrial laboratory settings (or equivalent independent laboratory coursework), is required. A valid driver's license with fewer than five (5) points and the ability to travel between campuses as needed is required.

Class Specific Essential Duties Maintain and troubleshoot equipment. Maintain inventory, order supplies and maintain purchasing records. Maintain all records pertinent to daily operations including purchasing and discipline lab instructional budget.

Work with instructors in the operation of assigned area. Assist students and faculty in assigned area. Assist in the supervision of student aides and temporary/hourly staff.

Prepare chemicals and equipment for use during classes. Assist with and prepare experiments. Perform in-class instruction on supplemental issues.

Maintain chemical and lab safety standards as a member of the Science Lab team, participate in the development and implementation of practices and materials intended to support a culture of safety. Essential Job Duties are intended to be examples of duties and are not intended to be all inclusive. There will be other duties as assigned.

Position Specific Essential Duties Provide primary laboratory support, including maintaining inventory, purchasing supplies and equipment and maintaining records for Physical Science and Biology courses. Assist other technicians and provide support for day or evening laboratory sections. Work under the supervision of the Physical Science Department Chair or Coordinator with input from the Biology Department Chair or Coordinator and in collaboration with other technicians.

Ensure that facilities equipment and material are prepared for scheduled laboratory activities. Maintain all assigned laboratories and laboratory preparation areas in a clean and organized manner. Participates in the development, study of, selection, modification and adoption of instructional technology/ materials, and trains faculty in their use.

Regularly trains work study students, co-op students, interns, and temporary hourly employees. Plans and prepares their work assignments and assigns specific duties in support of labs under the direction of the Department Chair or coordinator. Enforce safety regulations and policies.

This may include laboratory practices, proper handling and disposal of biological and chemical wastes and routine safety maintenance operations. Assist faculty and students in the operation of instructional technology in the laboratory. Coordinate and collaborate (as appropriate) with the College Instructional Technology Department.

By coursework and interaction with other technicians, learn to be able to support other Science Disciplines. Be able to travel to other campuses for meetings and to support instruction at other campuses as determined necessary by the School leadership. Essential Job Duties are intended to be examples of duties and are not intended to be all inclusive.

There will be other duties as assigned.


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