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Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... Lab Technician or Medical Technologist. * Experience: 1 year of experience in a Patient Service Center environment or at least 6 months in an Inova Patient Service Center. This requirement can also ...

That's why we combine personalized recruiter relationships with transparent, tech-driven processes that make every assignment simple, seamless, and rewarding. We partner with top healthcare systems ...

... degree in medical technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related health care field OR ... Position is entry level and requires no experience, however lab experience is preferred. 4-year ...

... degree in medical technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related health care field OR ... Position is entry level and requires no experience, however lab experience is preferred. 4-year ...

... degree in medical technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related health care field OR ... Position is entry level and requires no experience, however lab experience is preferred. 4-year ...

At Tidewater Tech , we are committed to helping adult students develop the skills necessary for ... Don't Miss Out: Position Purpose The HVAC program prepares students for entry-level careers in ...

At Tidewater Tech , we are committed to helping adult students develop the skills necessary for ... Don't Miss Out: Position Purpose The HVAC program prepares students for entry-level careers in ...

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Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$23

$50

How much do entry level lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Virginia is $23.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level lab tech do?

An Entry Level Lab Tech, also known as a laboratory technician, assists scientists and researchers by preparing and processing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data accurately. Their duties often include measuring chemicals, conducting basic experiments, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed at all times. This role is essential for keeping the laboratory running smoothly and supporting more advanced research work. Entry level positions typically require attention to detail, good organizational skills, and at least an associate degree in a science-related field.

What kind of training and mentorship can I expect as an entry level lab tech?

As an entry level lab tech, you can typically expect a combination of hands-on training and supervision from experienced technicians or lab managers. Many labs provide structured onboarding processes, including safety protocols, equipment handling, and standard operating procedures. Mentorship often comes through shadowing senior staff and regular feedback sessions, which help you build confidence in your techniques and understand quality standards. Collaboration with other team members is common, and asking questions is encouraged to ensure accuracy and adherence to lab protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level lab tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Tech, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and a relevant science background, often supported by an associate degree or equivalent coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry software, and proper sample handling is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help ensure accuracy and teamwork. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining reliable results and supporting smooth lab operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lab Tech vs Laboratory Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Lab TechLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; certifications varyHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, clinics, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming tests, preparing samples, recording dataAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and equipment setup

The Entry Level Lab Tech and Laboratory Assistant roles often overlap in work environment and basic responsibilities. However, Entry Level Lab Techs typically perform more technical testing and data analysis, requiring some formal education or certification, whereas Laboratory Assistants focus on supporting tasks and sample handling. Both roles serve essential functions in laboratory settings, with the Lab Tech generally taking on more technical duties.

How to become an entry level lab tech with no experience?

To become an entry-level lab tech with no experience, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and complete relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or certifications such as OSHA or CLT can improve your chances; familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols is also beneficial.

What is the starting pay for an entry level lab tech?

The starting pay for an entry-level lab technician typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on the location, industry, and required certifications. Many entry-level positions also offer benefits such as training in laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Tech jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Lab Tech jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Lab Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,620 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC

Inova

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 260 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 889 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC 

Inova Central Lab is looking for a dedicated Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC (LTA 2 PSC) to join the team located at Inova Schar Cancer Institute 8081 Innovation Park Dr, Fairfax VA 22031: Part- time, Day Shift,  (Mon to Fri 1:00pm to 5:00pm) with occasional rotating Saturday shift 7:00am to 5:00pm.

Inova is consistently ranked a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules, and more!

Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC Job Responsibilities:

  • Accurately manages specimen preparation steps, storage, and packaging for transport of specimens according to Lab protocols preserving specimen integrity and quality that effects laboratory testing. 

  • Communicates effectively and works cooperatively with others (Inova coworkers; physicians, physician office administration and staff; care facility staff and leadership, government facility staff and leaders) to optimize job performance and foster working relationships. 

  • Performs patient registration/billing/test order procedures accurately and efficiently to ensure correct testing, reporting, billing and regulatory compliance. 

  • This role performs proper and timely specimen collection and accurately labels all specimens according to Inova policy. 

  • Provides excellent patient and customer service by using AIDET principles and assuring the correctness and quality of technical information and directions provided to customers is appropriate and performs proper and timely specimen collection by confirming patient, collecting specimens in proper tubes, utilizing venipuncture/capillary techniques, and accurately labeling the specimens to ensure accurate patient results.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: High School diploma or equivalent. Completion of Phlebotomy training required; completion certificate from a Phlebotomy program or another Allied Health training program, such as Medical Assistant, Medical Lab Technician or Medical Technologist.

  • Experience: 1 year of experience in a Patient Service Center environment or at least 6 months in an Inova Patient Service Center. This requirement can also be met by successfully completing the Inova Phlebotomy School

  • Certification: Basic Life Support within 3 months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Phlebotomy 

We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare. 

Inova Health is an Equal Opportunity employer. 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, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.


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