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Drug Testing Laboratory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Electrical Testing Laboratory Technician Location: Northbrook, IL (onsite) Position: Contract 6 - ... drug testing, criminal records checks, and any required certifications or compliance requirements ...

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Drug Testing Laboratory information

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$34

How much do drug testing laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug testing laboratory in the United States is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Drug Testing Laboratory vs Drug Testing Technician?

AspectDrug Testing LaboratoryDrug Testing Technician
CredentialsLaboratory certifications, scientific degreesTraining in sample collection and testing procedures
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, controlled settingsCollection sites, clinics, workplaces
Industry UsageConducts complex analyses, quality controlPerforms sample collection, initial testing

The Drug Testing Laboratory focuses on detailed analysis and lab-based testing, requiring scientific credentials. In contrast, the Drug Testing Technician primarily handles sample collection and preliminary testing in field or clinical settings. Both roles are essential in the drug testing industry but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What is a drug testing laboratory?

A drug testing laboratory is a specialized facility that analyzes biological samples, such as urine, blood, hair, or saliva, to detect the presence of drugs or their metabolites. These labs use advanced scientific equipment and strict protocols to ensure accurate and reliable results. Drug testing laboratories are commonly used by employers, law enforcement, sports organizations, and healthcare providers to monitor compliance, ensure safety, or diagnose substance use. Qualified technicians and scientists oversee the process to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the testing.

Do all lab jobs drug tests?

Drug testing policies for lab jobs vary by employer and position. Many drug testing laboratories require pre-employment or random drug tests as part of their safety and compliance protocols, especially if handling sensitive or regulated substances. Candidates should review specific job postings or inquire directly with the employer to understand their drug testing requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a drug testing laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a drug testing laboratory often face challenges such as maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures, ensuring accuracy under tight turnaround times, and staying current with evolving testing technologies and regulations. Addressing these challenges requires meticulous attention to detail, ongoing training, and clear communication within the team. Working in a collaborative environment with well-defined protocols helps minimize errors and ensures reliable results, which are critical for compliance and client trust.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

In a drug testing laboratory, senior roles such as Laboratory Director or Quality Assurance Manager tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities within the lab environment.

Are drug testing labs profitable?

Drug testing laboratories can be profitable due to high demand in employment screening, legal cases, and sports doping control. Profitability depends on factors such as client volume, operational efficiency, accreditation costs, and the ability to maintain compliance with industry standards. Successful labs often require skilled staff, proper equipment, and consistent quality assurance practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drug Testing Laboratory Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drug Testing Laboratory Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry or biology, attention to detail, and typically a relevant degree or certification in laboratory sciences. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as gas or liquid chromatography systems, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and adherence to regulatory protocols like CLIA or ISO standards is essential. Strong organizational skills, integrity, and clear communication help ensure accuracy and maintain chain-of-custody procedures. These abilities are crucial to guarantee precise, reliable test results and uphold the credibility and legal compliance of the laboratory.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In a drug testing laboratory, high-paying roles such as senior toxicologists, laboratory directors, or specialized consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced degrees, industry expertise, and management skills, and may involve long hours or project-based work.
More about Drug Testing Laboratory jobs
What cities are hiring for Drug Testing Laboratory jobs? Cities with the most Drug Testing Laboratory job openings:
What states have the most Drug Testing Laboratory jobs? States with the most job openings for Drug Testing Laboratory jobs include:
Infographic showing various Drug Testing Laboratory job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,864 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Drug Testing Specialist

$50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Professional Drug Testing Specialist

If you're seeking a professional role where you can make a difference and contribute to a safer community with opportunities for growth, join our team today! Go to DATCS.com and see all the services we have to offer.

At Drug and Alcohol Testing Compliance Services (DATCS), we are passionate about providing spectacular service, rapid results, and accurate answers to our clients. As a national, women-owned business, we value integrity, family, and a positive work environment. Our office hours are Monday - Friday from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm and hours of work will vary to meet customers demand.

Competitive Pay & Benefits:

  • Training provided!
  • Highly competitive starting wages
  • Pay increase upon successful completion of training
  • $50/hour for after-hours emergency testing as part of rotating on-call schedule
  • Medical, dental, vision, IRA, life Insurance, paid vacation, sick time and holidays

What You'll Do:

  • Conduct drug and alcohol tests according to established guidelines for federally regulated and non-regulated companies, schools, and court-ordered testing
  • Collect DNA samples for paternity, forensic, and other DNA tests
  • Travel to various sites to collect test on-site's, hours will vary.
  • Respond to after-hours emergency testing when required as part of on-call team

Is This You?

  • Detail-oriented, capable of learning and adhering to procedures
  • Excellent communicator, able to interact professionally with clients and individuals being tested
  • Proficient in basic computer skills for documentation and scheduling
  • Valid driver's license and flexibility to travel
  • Live within a 45-minute drive of the office you want to work at (required for on call response)

We're excited to meet dedicated problem-solvers with a passion for upholding integrity!

Apply now and join our team!

Pre-employment background check and drug screening required.

Who is DATCS?

Drug and Alcohol Testing Compliance Services (DATCS) is one of the leading substance abuse program administrators providing complete, full service drug testing programs to state or federal companies and schools throughout the United States. Our database of approved collection sites allows us to provide nationwide coverage. Our corporate office is in Longview, TX, with DATCS owned collection facilities in Tyler, Texas; Wichita Falls, Texas; and Shreveport, Louisiana.

DATCS's strength and focus is on customer service. With over 35 years of experience in administering substance abuse programs, we take pride in being considered one of the top educators in our industry. Our experience has built our reputation for excellent service and expert compliance knowledge.

We are one of the leaders in DOT compliance with a designated department staying updated on federal statutes and regulations.

We provide complete designated employee representative (DER) training on all the procedures. Test results can be obtained quickly by using our secure web results, fax or email reporting methods.

Student testing programs maintain a cost effective and secure process for school districts.

Drug and alcohol collections are only conducted by trained specimen collectors under strict chain-of-custody procedures. We maintain partnerships with the highest quality laboratory and service providers in the industry to provide the fastest turnaround time for your applicants results so you can get back to what matters most. Other services include alternative specimen testing including hair and nail as well as complete criminal, driving and work history searches.

PLEASE DO NOT CALL TO CHECK ON YOUR APPLICATION.


Pre-employment background check and drug test .