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Clinical Lab Science Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Lab Assistant III Job Code: LA3454 Schedule: Shifts are 8 hours per day, Monday through ... a science related major; or a Clinical Laboratory Science program; or a Medical Laboratory ...

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Clinical Lab Science information

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How much do clinical lab science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab science in Washington, DC is $40.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.22 and $52.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is becoming a clinical lab scientist worth it?

A clinical lab scientist plays a vital role in healthcare by performing diagnostic tests and analyzing samples using laboratory equipment. The profession offers stable employment, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization, often requiring certification and a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field.

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

AspectClinical Lab ScienceMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Clinical Laboratory Science or related fieldAssociate's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilitiesHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Job RoleOversees lab testing, supervises technicians, interprets resultsPerforms laboratory tests, prepares samples, reports findings

Clinical Lab Science professionals typically hold a bachelor's degree and have broader responsibilities, including supervision and interpretation. Medical Laboratory Technicians usually have an associate's degree and focus on performing tests and preparing samples. Both roles work in similar environments, but Clinical Lab Scientists often have more advanced training and responsibilities.

What is a clinical lab scientist?

Clinical Lab Scientists, also known as medical laboratory scientists or medical technologists, are healthcare professionals who perform laboratory tests on patient samples such as blood, urine, and tissue. These tests help doctors diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases by providing critical information about a patient’s health. Clinical Lab Scientists use sophisticated equipment and follow strict protocols to ensure accurate and reliable results. Their work is essential for nearly every aspect of patient care in hospitals, clinics, and research laboratories.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical lab scientists, and how are they typically addressed?

Clinical Lab Scientists often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining accuracy under time constraints, and keeping up with rapidly advancing technology. To address these, labs typically implement robust quality control protocols, encourage ongoing professional development, and utilize automation to streamline repetitive tasks. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals and clear communication also help ensure that lab results are delivered accurately and efficiently, supporting patient care.

How much money do clinical lab scientists make?

Clinical lab scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $55,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can increase with specialization, advanced degrees, and working in high-demand areas or specialized laboratories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical lab scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Lab Scientist, a solid background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques is required, usually obtained through a bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science or a related field and professional certification (such as ASCP). Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and quality control protocols is essential for accurate diagnostics. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help ensure precise test results and smooth collaboration with healthcare teams. These abilities are vital for reliable patient diagnoses and maintaining the integrity and safety of the laboratory environment.

What can I do with a clinical lab science degree?

A clinical lab science degree prepares individuals to work as medical laboratory technologists or scientists, performing diagnostic tests on patient samples in hospitals, clinics, or laboratories. Graduates can specialize in areas such as microbiology, hematology, or clinical chemistry and often need certification or licensing to practice. The role involves operating laboratory equipment, analyzing data, and ensuring accurate test results to support patient care.
Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Science job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,977 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

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Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Clinical Lab Assistant IIIJob Code: LA3454

Schedule: Shifts are 8 hours per day, Monday through Friday and will vary within the hours of 7 am - 5:30 pm.

ABOUT US

We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA Health academic health system, we are committed to caring for the whole person by building meaningful connections with our patients in the local setting of UVA Health's community hospitals, outpatient locations, and provider offices. By combining our team's talent and expertise, the breadth of capabilities across the entire UVA Health system, and our dedication to community wellness, we are bringing expert care close to home. As a member of the UVA Community Health team, individuals contribute to patient care decisions, support advanced medical technologies, and experience the satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives every day.

JOB TYPE

Classification: Non Exempt

Supervises Positions:

JOB SUMMARY

Performs a variety of tasks related to the pre-analytical processing of biological specimens for testing performed in the clinical laboratory. Responsible for data entry of client demographic information, processing test orders and order review, reconciling specimen/order problems, assist with facilitating send out testing, ensure proper patient registration, paper requisition filing, supply management support, answers phones, ensuring proper labeling of samples and sample distribution, patient phlebotomy, pathology support, and other duties as assigned.Clinical Laboratory Associate III Duties: Performs duties above and beyond CLA II.Actively participate in clinical testing continuous performance improvement activitiesParticipate in safety rounding and reporting within the clinical laboratories.Serve as a primary resource for Specimen Receiving to address problems and identify resolutions.Collects Urine Drug Screens.Orient and train Clinical Laboratory Assistant I and II (s) as assigned.Supports inventory management activities.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School Diploma or GED Required, Associates or Bachelor Degree Preferred

Experience: Minimum of two years of health care or laboratory setting experience or certified as a Clinical Laboratory Assistant (CLA); or certified as a phlebotomist; or student enrolled in an accredited Bachelor of Science program in a science related major; or a Clinical Laboratory Science program; or a Medical Laboratory Technician program.Refer to the Life Support Training Policy for additional details.

Licensure: Preferred certification as a CLA, MOA, or ASCP

Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Knowledge of current medical terminology to perform full range of laboratory tasks. Knowledge of medical terminology to communicate with medical staff regarding laboratory procedures and results. Skill in anticipating and reacting calmly to emergency situations. Skill in developing and maintaining department quality assurance. Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, hospital staff and the public. Ability to follow written protocols. Ability to work independently. Ability to communicate clearly.

Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Competencies

  • Patient Care: Shows a commitment to provide the highest level of patient care.
    • Collects, labels, and prepares specimens for testing.
    • Maintains required documentation for all lab procedures.
    • Processes requisitions for testing.Prepares and distributes reports.
  • Teamwork: Cooperates within a team to achieve goals and deliverables.
    • Provides information and consultation to requestors.
    • Recognizes interdependencies with other areas and supports other staff as needed.
    • Shares and initiates regular and professional communication with co-workers.
    • Participates in regular staff meetings.
  • Technical Competence: Uses knowledge that is acquired through training or extensive on-the-job experience to perform one's job.
    • Performs competency and proficiency testing to assure maintenance of skills.
    • Completes educational activities to continually improve skills and assists consultants.
    • Participates in improvement of methods and processes.

The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Demand Code: Medium to Heavy Physical Demand: The job requires constant standing, frequently walking, and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills. Attention to detail and ability to write legibly. Ability to lift/push/pull 100 lbs. For any weight over 35 lbs., use Safe Handling Equipment. This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described. It may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of UVA Community Health.

OTHER
  • May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes

  • On call responsibilities as directed: Yes

  • Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: Yes

The base compensation range for this role is $18.33 - $27.28 hourly.

Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education. Please note that the pay range does not include any applicable incentive compensation programs such as shift differentials, clinical ladders, and other incentives that may be available for those in eligible positions.

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician's Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.