ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Inova

Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC

Fairfax, VA · On-site

... 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 ...

GeneDx

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 ... Bachelor's degree in medical technology, laboratory science, or in one of the chemistry, physical ...

GeneDx

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 ... Bachelor's degree in medical technology, laboratory science, or in one of the chemistry, physical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab Tech JobsEntry Level Lab Tech JobsEntry Level Lab Tech Jobs in Washington

Entry Level Lab Tech information

See Washington salary details

$14

$27

$57

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

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab tech in Washington is $27.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Lab Tech jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Washington are:
Entry Level Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Tech job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,686 per year, or $27.3 per hour.
Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC

Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC

Inova

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 886 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. This is a PRN position (work as needed).

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.

Inova PRN Benefits and Perks:

  • State-of-the-art medical and training facilities 
  • Retirement benefits with match from day one
  • Free Parking for all employees
  • Exclusive savings opportunities to in-store events, theme parks, discounts, movie tickets and local offerings and so much 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.

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 System 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.

What Inova Health System employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply