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Dna Lab Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician (Overnight Shift)

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Summary The Lab Technician may support a range of laboratory functions including but not limited to the preparation, processing, and analysis of clinical DNA specimens in support of genetic disease ...

Be Seen First

Collecting samples for rapid and/or lab-based drug, alcohol, or DNA tests * Following precise protocols for collecting samples and completing tracking documentation Including: * Taking detailed phone ...

Be Seen First

Collecting samples for rapid and/or lab-based drug, alcohol, or DNA tests * Following precise protocols for collecting samples and completing tracking documentation Including: * Taking detailed phone ...

Laboratory Technician

Bethesda, MD

$56K - $94K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... plasma, DNA, RNA, Protein). * Manage inventory and procure laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment when needed. * Perform lab purchasing, receiving, inventory, and maintain lab equipment ...

Laboratory Technician

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$56K - $94K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... plasma, DNA, RNA, Protein). * Manage inventory and procure laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment when needed. * Perform lab purchasing, receiving, inventory, and maintain lab equipment ...

Lab Technician

Gaithersburg, MD

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Summary The Lab Technician for OneLab, performs an entry level role in the testing of clinical DNA specimens for the purpose of diagnosing genetic disease, using manual and automated methods in a ...

Lab Technician

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Summary The Lab Technician for OneLab, performs an entry level role in the testing of clinical DNA specimens for the purpose of diagnosing genetic disease, using manual and automated methods in a ...

Variant calling and basic annotation and DNA methylation data processing and analysis and Data integration across datasets when directed Prepares, organizes and maintains various lab samples ...

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Kidane Lab at Howard University College of Medicine is seeking a full-time Research Assistant/Lab Manager to study DNA repair, tumor immunology, and cancer biology. The position is available ...

Biologist

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$85K - $135K/yr

Variant calling and basic annotation and DNA methylation data processing and analysis and Data integration across datasets when directed Prepares, organizes and maintains various lab samples ...

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Kidane Lab at Howard University College of Medicine is seeking a full-time Research Assistant/Lab Manager to study DNA repair, tumor immunology, and cancer biology. The position is available ...

Molecular Laboratory Technician

Beltsville, MD

$30 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Perform DNA extraction on various specimen types. * Load and run PCR equipment. * Prepare master ... Keep supplies fully stocked in molecular lab area. * Dispose of laboratory waste and change ...

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Dna Lab information

See Washington salary details

$14

$25

$38

How much do dna lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for dna lab in Washington is $25.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DNA lab?

A DNA Lab job involves analyzing genetic material for various applications, such as forensic investigations, medical diagnostics, ancestry research, and biotechnology. Professionals in a DNA lab may extract, amplify, and sequence DNA to identify genetic markers or mutations. Common roles include DNA analysts, forensic scientists, and molecular biologists who follow strict protocols to ensure accurate results. These jobs typically require a background in genetics, biology, or forensic science, along with specialized laboratory training.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a DNA lab?

Professionals in a DNA lab often face challenges such as maintaining strict sample integrity to avoid contamination, troubleshooting complex instrumentation, and managing large volumes of data accurately. Collaborative teamwork is essential, as projects typically require coordination with researchers, technicians, and sometimes law enforcement or medical staff. Adapting quickly to evolving protocols and new technologies is also important in this dynamic field. Despite these challenges, working in a DNA lab offers rewarding opportunities to contribute to scientific discoveries, healthcare advancements, and forensic investigations.

How to work in a DNA lab?

Working in a DNA lab typically involves performing laboratory techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. It requires knowledge of molecular biology, attention to detail, and often certification or training in lab safety and protocols. Familiarity with lab equipment and data analysis software is also important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the DNA lab position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a DNA lab, professionals need a solid background in molecular biology, genetics, and laboratory techniques, often supported by a relevant degree such as biology, biochemistry, or forensic science. Familiarity with advanced instrumentation such as PCR machines, genetic sequencers, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS), as well as certifications like ASCP, is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this environment. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate handling and interpretation of complex genetic data, which is critical for research integrity and reliable results.

How to become a DNA lab technician?

To become a DNA lab technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring an associate degree or bachelor's in biology, genetics, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, familiarity with DNA analysis tools, and attention to detail; certifications in laboratory safety or molecular biology can enhance job prospects. On-the-job training is common, and the role often requires working in a laboratory environment with standard working hours.
Infographic showing various Dna Lab job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,078 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Lab Technician (Overnight Shift)

GeneDx

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


GeneDx rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

 At GeneDx (Nasdaq: WGS), we don't just diagnose rare diseases - we redefine what's possible in precision medicine. With one of the world's largest, rare disease datasets, we turn genomic data into answers that change lives and accelerate discovery. Patients and families around the world are counting on us to lead with bold ideas, relentless focus, and drive to end the diagnostic odyssey. Visit www.genedx.com to learn how we're making precision medicine the global standard of care.

Summary 
The Lab Technician may support a range of laboratory functions including but not limited to the preparation, processing, and analysis of clinical DNA specimens in support of genetic disease diagnosis. Responsibilities include adherence to established specimen handling protocols, execution of both manual and automated testing methods, documentation of issues impacting test quality, and compliance with all quality control and proficiency testing requirements. With a focus on accuracy, procedural consistency, and operational efficiency, the role contributes to  reliable diagnostic outcomes and supports broader laboratory testing services. The Lab Technician collaborates closely with supervisory staff and team members to ensure performance metrics are met and to maintain a high standard of laboratory practice across workflows and platforms.

Please note: This role works our overnight shift from 10:30pm - 7:00am. The overnight shift includes a pay differential.

Job Responsibilities

  • Follow established standard operating procedures for specimen handling, processing, test analysis, record keeping, and reporting of results to team leads, supervisors, and test managers.
  • Process samples using manual and automated methods aligned with home lab assignment (e.g., DNA Extraction, PCR, Array, NextGen).
  • Meet or exceed workload and performance metric thresholds with accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Demonstrate effective time management, task prioritization, and basic troubleshooting skills.
  • Perform routine laboratory and equipment maintenance to ensure operational readiness.
  • Identify issues that may impact test performance, document corrective actions, and notify appropriate personnel when performance is not at acceptable levels.
  • Adhere to quality control policies; document all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations, reagent preparation and testing, and instrument maintenance.
  • Ensure proficiency testing is performed in the same manner as patient testing and document accordingly.
  • Contribute productively in both independent and team-based work environments.

Education, Experience, and Skills

  •  Bachelor's degree in medical technology, laboratory science, or in one of the chemistry, or biological sciences and meets CLIA, CAP, and New York State CLEP personnel standards criteria.
  • Foundational knowledge as a Lab Technician is preferred but not required.

Physical Demands
Team members in this environment must be able to:

  • Stand, sit, and use hands frequently
  • Occasionally walk, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, talk, or hear
  • Lift or move up to 10 pounds
  • Team members must pass color vision screening; if a deficiency is identified, alternative measures may be required to ensure job performance, and eligibility for roles requiring color vision may be restricted.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Work Environment

Duties are performed onsite with possible exposure to water (hand washing/cleaning), biohazardous fluids, and 
hazardous chemicals. Employees may experience moderate noise, interruptions, and extended periods of computer 
work or standing, including reaching, bending, and lifting heavy items. Reasonable accommodations may be provided 
to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Acknowledgements
The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. 
Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor. 


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