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Environmental Lab Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Lab Technician (Ni Lab)

Blacksburg, VA

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Research / Scientific The Ni laboratory in the School of Neuroscience at Virginia Tech is seeking a ... environments and fundamental chemistry. Willingness to perform fruit fly-related research ...

Arclin

Senior Lab Technician - Electrical

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Lab Technologist - Electrical Infrastructure and Electric Vehicle The Arclin Aramids business has ... Must be capable of physical lifting and work in varying ergonomic environments. * Work safely with ...

Arclin USA LLC

Senior Lab Technician - Electrical

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Lab Technologist - Electrical Infrastructure and Electric Vehicle The Arclin Aramids business has ... Must be capable of physical lifting and work in varying ergonomic environments. * Work safely with ...

Riverside

$16.20 - $21.08/hr

... lab depending on work site assignment. The Laboratory Support Tech II must maintain patient ... Maintains a safe environment by complying with RHS policies/procedures/regulatory requirements that ...

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

$16.20 - $21.08/hr

... lab depending on work site assignment. The Laboratory Support Tech II must maintain patient ... Maintains a safe environment by complying with RHS policies/procedures/regulatory requirements that ...

Riverside Health System

Lab Support Tech

Newport News, VA · On-site

$16.20 - $21.08/hr

... lab depending on work site assignment. The Laboratory Support Tech II must maintain patient ... Maintains a safe environment by complying with RHS policies/procedures/regulatory requirements that ...

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Environmental Lab Tech information

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$15

$28

$47

How much do environmental lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for environmental lab tech in Virginia is $28.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $31.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I work in a lab with an environmental science degree?

Environmental Lab Technicians typically require a degree in environmental science or a related field. The degree provides foundational knowledge of environmental systems, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, which are essential for performing lab work. Additional certifications or training in laboratory safety and specific analytical methods can enhance job prospects.

What does an environmental laboratory technician do?

An environmental laboratory technician collects, prepares, and analyzes samples of air, water, soil, or other environmental materials to monitor pollution levels and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They use laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and document test results, often working with certifications such as OSHA or EPA standards. The role typically requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of laboratory procedures.

What is the highest paying lab technician job?

Environmental lab technicians with advanced certifications, specialized skills, or experience in high-demand areas such as environmental consulting or hazardous waste management tend to earn higher salaries. Senior or supervisory roles in environmental laboratories also offer higher pay, often exceeding the average for entry-level positions.

What are some common challenges Environmental Lab Technicians face in maintaining sample integrity?

Environmental Lab Technicians frequently encounter challenges in preserving the integrity of samples during collection, transport, and analysis. Factors such as contamination, improper storage temperatures, or delays in processing can compromise results. To address these issues, technicians must strictly follow protocols for chain-of-custody, use appropriate containers, and adhere to precise handling and documentation procedures. Teamwork and clear communication with field staff and analysts are also essential to ensure reliable data and compliance with regulatory standards.

What is the highest paid environmental job?

Environmental Lab Technicians typically earn moderate salaries, but the highest paid environmental jobs include environmental managers, environmental engineers, and sustainability directors, who often have advanced degrees and certifications. These roles involve overseeing environmental projects, compliance, and policy development, with salaries often exceeding $80,000 annually depending on experience and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Environmental Lab Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Lab Tech, you need a background in environmental science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments (like spectrophotometers and chromatographs), data analysis software, and standard lab safety protocols is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set standout professionals apart. These competencies ensure accurate testing, reliable results, and compliance with environmental regulations.

What does an Environmental Lab Tech do?

An Environmental Lab Technician, often called an Environmental Lab Tech, is responsible for collecting, preparing, and analyzing environmental samples such as water, soil, and air to detect pollutants and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They operate laboratory equipment, follow strict safety protocols, and record data for further analysis. Their work helps organizations monitor environmental quality and make informed decisions about pollution control and public health.

What is the difference between Environmental Lab Tech vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectEnvironmental Lab TechEnvironmental Scientist
CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationBachelor's or higher degree in environmental science or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling sitesResearch facilities, fieldwork, data analysis
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental testing labs, government agenciesResearch institutions, consulting firms, government agencies

Environmental Lab Techs primarily perform sample analysis and laboratory testing, often working in labs or in the field. Environmental Scientists focus on research, data interpretation, and developing environmental solutions. While both roles require knowledge of environmental principles, Lab Techs typically hold technical certifications, whereas Scientists usually have higher degrees. Both roles are essential in environmental work but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Environmental Lab Tech jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Environmental Lab Tech job openings:
Environmental Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Lab Tech job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,925 per year, or $28.3 per hour.
Lab Technician (Ni Lab)

Lab Technician (Ni Lab)

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Lab Technician (Ni Lab)

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536768
Work type: Hourly Wage/Part-Time
Senior management: College of Science
Department: School of Neuroscience
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific

Job Description

The Ni laboratory in the School of Neuroscience at Virginia Tech is seeking a motivated laboratory technician to assist with ongoing research activities. This role involves supporting projects that investigate sensory processing in the spotted-wing drosophila. This is an hourly position requiring a commitment of 30 hours per week during weekdays.

Required Qualifications

BS or equivalent experience in Neuroscience, Biology, or a related discipline.
A strong interest in neuroscience research
Basic familiarity with biological laboratory environments and fundamental chemistry.
Willingness to perform fruit fly-related research
Comfortable working with live animals

Preferred Qualifications

Experience using Drosophila (fruit flies) as a research model.
Experience with electrophysiology
Experience using a microscope such as confocal imaging or two-photon scope
Basic knowledge of molecular neuroscience and familiarity with standard laboratory equipment
Basic programming or data analysis skills (Python, R, MATLAB)

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

Hours per week

30

Review Date

7/06/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Natalie Langowsky at nlangow3@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: June 25, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

Social media

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