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Entry Level Lab Technician Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... entry-level providers. Our programs are known for their intensity, structure, and real-world ... lab, and simulation environment. Skills Instructors primarily support hands-on learning by ...

Veterinary Assistant

Herndon, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

We believe strong medicine starts with a strong team - our doctors, technicians, assistants, and ... entry-level candidates considered. • Comfortable with venipuncture, lab procedures, and basic ...

Veterinary Receptionist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

We believe strong medicine starts with a strong team - our doctors, technicians, assistants, and ... entry-level candidates considered. • Comfortable with venipuncture, lab procedures, and basic ...

Entry Level Lab Technician information

See Reston, VA salary details

$13

$25

$52

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

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab technician in Reston, VA is $25.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of basic laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data entry systems such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in supporting scientific investigations and maintaining lab accuracy. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring precise results, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab operations.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

Entry-level lab technicians typically earn starting salaries around $30,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on location and industry. Salaries can vary based on certifications, education level, and the complexity of laboratory work involved.

What does a typical day look like for an Entry Level Lab Technician, and how do they interact with other team members?

As an Entry Level Lab Technician, your daily tasks often include preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting routine tests or experiments, recording data accurately, and following strict safety protocols. You’ll regularly collaborate with senior technicians, scientists, and lab managers to support ongoing research or quality control projects. Communication is key, as you may need to report findings, troubleshoot equipment issues, or help ensure compliance with lab standards. This role offers valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, making it a strong foundation for career growth in laboratory sciences.

What Does an Entry-Level Lab Technician Do?

As an entry-level lab technician, you help senior technicians and technologists to test and analyze medical samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue. Typically, a doctor or other healthcare professional takes a medical specimen and sends it to a lab for analysis. When labs complete their tests, they send their reports to the pathology lab, which aids in a doctor’s diagnosis of a patient. In this job, you use specialized equipment, such as cell counters, centrifuges, and powerful microscopes, and log your analysis for technologists.

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

AspectEntry Level Lab TechnicianLaboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentLaboratories in healthcare, research, or manufacturing settingsSupport roles in labs, hospitals, or research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and research industriesCommon in hospitals, clinics, and research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Lab Technician and a Laboratory Assistant lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Entry Level Lab Technicians typically perform more technical tasks and may require specific certifications or degrees, while Laboratory Assistants focus on supporting roles and routine tasks. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings across healthcare, research, and industry sectors.

Can you get a lab tech job without experience?

Entry level lab technician positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a relevant degree or certification in a science or laboratory field. Some employers may provide on-the-job training for new hires, and having basic skills in lab equipment and safety procedures can improve chances of employment.

What is the starting pay for a lab tech?

The starting pay for an entry-level lab technician typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on location, industry, and required certifications. Salaries may increase with experience, specialized skills, or additional training in laboratory procedures and equipment.

How can I start working in a lab?

To start working as an entry-level lab technician, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and consider earning relevant certifications such as OSHA or laboratory safety training. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions, along with developing skills in laboratory techniques and familiarity with lab equipment, can improve job prospects.

What does an Entry Level Lab Technician do?

An Entry Level Lab Technician assists in laboratory operations by preparing samples, conducting basic tests, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often record and analyze data under the supervision of senior staff. Their responsibilities may also include cleaning workspaces, labeling samples, and adhering to safety protocols. This role provides foundational experience in lab work and is a common starting point for a scientific career.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Technician jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Lab Technician jobs in Reston, VA are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab Technician jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Lab Technician jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Lab Technician job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab Technician job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,069 per year, or $25 per hour.

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 17 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

GeneDx (Nasdaq: WGS) delivers personalized and actionable health insights to inform diagnosis, direct treatment, and improve drug discovery. The company is uniquely positioned to accelerate the use of genomic and large-scale clinical information to enable precision medicine as the standard of care. GeneDx is at the forefront of transforming healthcare through its industry-leading exome and genome testing and interpretation services, fueled by the world's largest, rare disease data sets. For more information, please visit www.genedx.com.

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 team environment, and following established policies and procedures, in a professional manner.
Important: Interested candidates should be open to working alternative shifts including Morning, Midday, or Evening hours, which may include weekends; shift differentials are provided for Midday, Evening, and all weekend shifts. This will be reviewed during the initial phone screen.

Job Responsibilities 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Learns and follows the established standard operating procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analysis, record-keeping, and reporting of results to team leads, supervisors and test managers, where such tests require the exercise of limited independent judgment and responsibility.
  • Adheres to quality control policies; documents all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations, reagent preparation and testing, and instrument maintenance performed.
  • Identifies problems that may adversely affect test performance, takes authorized corrective actions, and notifies key individuals.
  • Detects when test performance is not within acceptable levels. Documents all corrective action.
  • Always be able to document that proficiency testing is performed in the same manner as patient testing.
  • Meets or exceeds target workload with high accuracy and attention to detail.
    • Other duties may be assigned

Education, Experience, and Skills 

  • Bachelor's degree in medical technology, laboratory science, or in one of the chemistry, physical, or biological sciences and meets CLIA, CAP, and New York State CLEP personnel standards criteria.
  • Prior experience preferred but not required.
  • Mathematical, computer, reasoning, and language skills at the professional level.

Physical Demands

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; sit and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include color vision.

Work Environment

  • The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Possible contact with water (hand washing and cleaning), biohazardous body fluids, and hazardous chemicals.
  • Sufficient noise and interruptions to cause distraction and stress.
  • Extended periods of stationary computer work.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

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