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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Research Innovations

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

... an entry-level role; we need a hands-on specialist with experience in the aerospace or defense industry who understands military standards and ruggedization. You will work directly in the lab ...

CERT

Emergency Medical Technician

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$25 - $42/hr

... 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 ...

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All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Lab information

See Washington, DC salary details

$14

$27

$57

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Washington, DC 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.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist lab technicians by automating routine tasks such as data analysis and sample processing. However, lab technicians are essential for overseeing experiments, maintaining equipment, and applying critical thinking, making complete replacement unlikely in the near future.

What is an entry level lab job?

An entry level lab job typically refers to a position in a laboratory setting that requires minimal prior experience or specialized education beyond a high school diploma or associate degree. Employees in these roles assist with basic laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, performing routine tests, maintaining equipment, and recording data under the supervision of more experienced staff. These positions are often a starting point for a career in science, healthcare, or research, providing valuable hands-on experience and exposure to laboratory protocols and safety procedures.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

The lowest salary for an entry-level lab technician typically starts around $30,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on location and employer. Salaries can increase with experience, certifications, and specialized skills such as proficiency with laboratory equipment or data analysis tools.

What jobs let you work in a lab?

Entry-level lab jobs include laboratory technician, research assistant, and lab aide. These roles typically require basic knowledge of lab equipment, safety procedures, and sometimes a relevant certification or degree in science or a related field. They involve tasks such as sample preparation, data recording, and assisting with experiments in scientific or medical laboratories.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level lab technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level lab technicians often face challenges such as adjusting to strict safety protocols, managing multiple tasks efficiently, and becoming familiar with laboratory equipment and procedures. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to actively participate in training sessions, ask questions when unsure, and maintain a well-organized workspace. Building strong communication with senior technicians and supervisors can also help in gaining confidence and improving technical skills over time.

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 basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and typically an associate degree or relevant certification in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry systems, and software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills are vital for ensuring accurate results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What qualification do I need to work in a lab?

Entry level lab positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field like biology, chemistry, or health sciences. Basic skills in laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important; certifications like OSHA safety training can be beneficial.

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

AspectEntry Level LabLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degreeAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentEducational, research, or clinical labsMedical, industrial, or research labs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research facilitiesHospitals, biotech companies, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Lab vs Laboratory Technician

Entry Level Lab roles typically require basic education and involve assisting in lab tasks within educational or research settings. Laboratory Technicians often have similar credentials but may perform more specialized or technical duties in medical or industrial labs. Both roles serve as foundational positions in laboratory environments, with Laboratory Technicians generally having more hands-on responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab jobs in Washington, DC? For Entry Level Lab jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Washington, DC are:
Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,690 per year, or $27.3 per hour.
Production Technician

Production Technician

Research Innovations

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Production Technician 

Location: Alexandria, VA

Clearance Requirement: Candidate must have the ability to obtain a U.S. security clearance

Employment type: Full Time

Research Innovations, Inc. (RII) is breaking through the big, slow status quo with transformative technology that fundamentally improves the world. We build advanced software solutions for government and military missions, applying agile development and user-centered design to solve complex, mission-critical problems.

RII is seeking an experienced Production Technician to join our SIGINT/EW team. This is not an entry-level role; we need a hands-on specialist with experience in the aerospace or defense industry who understands military standards and ruggedization. You will work directly in the lab alongside our engineering leads to prototype and produce hardware that solves unique and challenging problems.

You will be expected to support high-stakes manufacturing processes and uphold strict quality controls to support one of RII's most successful core values: Get s#it done.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

      Complex Cable & Harness Assembly:

  • Build and inspect high-reliability cable assemblies, including MIL Spec connectors, RF cabling, and integrated data cables, ensuring strict adherence to applicable standards.

  • Perform shield termination on RF cables and verify continuity and isolation to prevent signal interference.

  • Execute water and dust proofing techniques for cable assemblies to ensure durability in harsh environments.

      Lab Collaboration & Production:

  • Collaborate daily in the lab with engineering and design teams to bridge the gap between initial prototypes and field-ready units.

  • Contribute to the ruggedization of sensitive hardware, ensuring components can withstand specific applications such as impact, heat, or salt water.

  • Assist in tracking incoming inventory and sourcing integration pieces to keep lab operations running smoothly.

      Quality Assurance & Standards:

  • Troubleshoot failures in assemblies and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

  • Conduct product testing to verify manufacturing quality, ensuring compliance with industry and safety standards.

WHAT YOU HAVE DONE

  • Must have prior experience in Aerospace, Defense, Military Avionics, or Satellite/UAV manufacturing.

  • Experience in manufacturing small form factor electronics or cable assembly.

  • Strong familiarity with military standards (MIL-STD), ruggedization processes, and environmental protection (waterproofing, corrosion resistance).

  • Demonstrated ability to build complex wire harnesses and terminate RF connectors.

EVEN BETTER

  • A US security clearance.

  • Current or prior certification in IPC-J-STD-001 (Soldering) and IPC/WHMA-A-620 (Cable & Wire Harness).

  • Experience with a variety of prototyping equipment including 3D printing and Laser cutting.

  • Understanding of different materials and coatings for specific applications, such as impact or salt water corrosion.

  • Background in high reliability/low volume environments.

#LI-TC1

At RII, we believe that diversity in our workforce is critical to our success. We strive to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it's the right thing to do, but because it makes us stronger. We work to help your intellectual passions and creativity thrive. It's one of our core values: Let your geek flag fly.
 
We also offer all employees comprehensive benefits including: flexible work schedules, health insurance coverage, paid time off, 401k with a company match, paid parental leave, access to wellness programs and much more. You get this all from day one, and all paid for by RII.
 
It's all part of another of our core values: Stay human. It's why our comfortable and colorful offices such as our headquarters, include a community game room, pantry, massage chair, and an escape room, among other amenities. It's why we have community ambassadors and regular community events.
 
Research Innovations Incorporated is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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