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Entry Level Laboratory Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Inova

Laboratory Technician Assistant 2 PSC

Fairfax, VA · On-site

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 ...

Mercy Medical Center

LAB ASSISTANT II

Baltimore, MD

$32.16/hr

Training and experience as a Laboratory Assistant in an accredited computerized laboratory preferred. * Good communication skills, entry level computer knowledge and typing skills necessary Min USD ...

Mercy Medical Center

LAB ASSISTANT II

Baltimore, MD

$32.16/hr

Training and experience as a Laboratory Assistant in an accredited computerized laboratory preferred. * Good communication skills, entry level computer knowledge and typing skills necessary Min USD ...

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All JobsLaboratory JobsEntry Level Laboratory JobsEntry Level Laboratory Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Entry Level Laboratory information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$13

$24

$52

How much do entry level laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level laboratory in Silver Spring, MD is $24.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

Entry-level laboratory technicians typically earn starting salaries around $30,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the work, laboratory setting, and required skills such as proficiency with lab equipment and safety protocols.

What are the career options in a laboratory?

Entry level laboratory positions can lead to careers such as laboratory technician, research assistant, quality control analyst, or laboratory supervisor. Advancement often requires additional certifications, experience, or education in fields like biology, chemistry, or medical technology, and may involve working with specialized tools and adhering to safety protocols.

What lab jobs pay well?

Entry-level laboratory jobs such as laboratory technicians or research assistants typically offer moderate pay, but roles like lab managers or quality control supervisors tend to pay higher salaries. Gaining certifications or specialized skills in areas like molecular biology or chemistry can increase earning potential in lab positions.

How to get into working in a lab?

To work in an entry-level laboratory position, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or laboratory technology. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or laboratory coursework, along with developing skills in lab techniques and safety protocols, can improve job prospects. Certification from professional organizations may also enhance employability in certain laboratory roles.

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

AspectEntry Level LaboratoryLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degreeHigh school diploma or associate's degree, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational labs, research facilities, healthcare settingsClinical, research, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, healthcareHospitals, biotech companies, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Laboratory and a Laboratory Technician lies in experience and job scope. Entry Level Laboratory roles are typically for individuals starting their careers with minimal experience, focusing on basic lab tasks. Laboratory Technicians often have similar credentials but may have more hands-on responsibilities and specialized skills. Both roles are essential in various industries like healthcare, research, and manufacturing, and often overlap in entry-level positions.

What are entry level laboratory jobs?

Entry level laboratory jobs are positions in scientific labs that require minimal prior experience and often serve as the starting point for careers in laboratory sciences. These roles typically involve tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, operating laboratory equipment, recording data, and maintaining a clean work environment. Entry level lab jobs are found in various industries, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and research institutions. They often require at least a high school diploma or associate degree, though some may prefer or require a bachelor's degree in a science-related field. These jobs provide valuable hands-on experience and can lead to more advanced positions with additional training and education.

What are some typical daily tasks for someone in an entry-level laboratory position?

In an entry-level laboratory role, your daily tasks often include preparing and labeling samples, conducting routine tests under supervision, maintaining lab equipment, and accurately recording data. You may also be responsible for cleaning and organizing workspaces, as well as adhering to safety protocols. Collaboration with senior technicians and scientists is common, providing valuable opportunities to learn and gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques.

How can I get laboratory experience?

To gain laboratory experience for an entry-level laboratory position, you can complete relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, or related fields, and seek internships or volunteer opportunities in labs. Developing skills in lab techniques, safety protocols, and using tools like microscopes or spectrophotometers can improve your qualifications. Certifications such as OSHA safety training may also enhance your candidacy.

Can I be a lab assistant with no experience?

Entry level laboratory positions such as lab assistant roles often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is typically provided. However, having a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant skills like data recording can improve your chances of being hired. Certifications or coursework in science or laboratory techniques may also be beneficial.

Who gets paid more, MLT or MLS?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) and Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) are laboratory professionals with different levels of education and responsibilities. Generally, MLS professionals tend to earn higher salaries than MLTs due to their advanced training and certification requirements. Salary differences can also vary based on experience, location, and work setting.

How can I start working in a lab?

To start working in an entry-level laboratory position, obtain relevant education such as a high school diploma or an associate degree in a science-related field. Gaining basic laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and certifications like OSHA safety training can improve your chances; some roles may also require prior internship or volunteer experience.

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

To succeed as an Entry Level Laboratory Technician, you need attention to detail, foundational knowledge of laboratory procedures, and at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with common lab equipment, safety protocols, and basic data entry or laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and teamwork in the lab. These skills are crucial for maintaining precise results, supporting scientific research, and upholding safety and quality standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Laboratory jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Entry Level Laboratory jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Entry Level Laboratory job openings:
Entry Level Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Laboratory job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,740 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Research Specialist II (Dept. of Molecular Biology & Genetics)

Research Specialist II (Dept. of Molecular Biology & Genetics)

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$41K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Johns Hopkins Medicine rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 205 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 886 rated healthcare providers

Job description

We are seeking a Research Specialist II who will develop assays and protocols for PI approval and designs experimental approaches for laboratory projects. Performs a range of sophisticated assays. Makes significant contributions to various aspects of laboratory efforts and goals. Responsible for troubleshooting, independent decisions and training/guidance of other laboratory personnel.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
  • Conduct assigned laboratory projects.
  • Utilize specialized knowledge to interpret results, e.g. read controls, evaluate results, etc.
  • Work independently and use scientific knowledge and lab experience to make judgments and decisions.
  • Teach/train learners, and new technicians in the laboratory.
  • Guide, direct, and facilitate problem solving for entry-level laboratory members on day-to-day problems with more challenging research assays.
  • Make scientific contributions to protocol development, efficiency, and productivity.
  • Collaborate in the development of new techniques and instruments.
  • Apply published research methods to current experimental work by investigating published protocols and discussing them with PI.
  • Scientifically contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and proposals.
  • Process analyzed data into figures for scientific publications.
  • Order equipment and supplies, interface with vendors.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or a related field.
  • Two years of laboratory experience performing relevant techniques.
  • Additional education may substitute for required experience and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond a high school diploma/graduation equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree with related graduate research.

Technical Skills & Expected Level of Proficiency
  • Assay Development and Validation - Developing
  • Data Management and Analysis - Developing
  • Experimental Design and Execution - Developing
  • Operations Management - Developing
  • Protocol Development and Optimization - Developing
  • Scientific Writing - Developing
  • Stakeholder Engagement - Developing

The core technical skills listed are most essential; additional technical skills may be required based on specific division or department needs.
Classified Title: Research Specialist II
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MB
Starting Salary Range: $41,300 - $72,300 Annually ($70,000 targeted; Commensurate w/exp.)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM MBG Molecular Biology and Genetics
Personnel area: School of Medicine

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