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Junior Lab Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above ... Internship Responsibilities * Assist in the design and development of GN&C systems for current and ...

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

Herndon, VA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above ... Internship Responsibilities * Assist in the design and development of GN&C systems for current and ...

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

Herndon, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above ... Internship Responsibilities * Assist in the design and development of GN&C systems for current and ...

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

Herndon, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above ... Internship Responsibilities * Assist in the design and development of GN&C systems for current and ...

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above ... Ability to assist in selecting hardware/software for model deployment. Preferred Qualifications

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above ... Explore and visualize data to understand distribution patterns and potential anomalies. * Assist in ...

Summer 2027 Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

Position Responsibilities * Assist in the design, development, deployment, troubleshooting, and ... lab environments, or manufacturing environments. * Familiarity with writing bug reports and root ...

Summer 2027 Systems Test Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Position Responsibilities * Assist in the design, development, deployment, troubleshooting, and ... lab environments, or manufacturing environments. * Familiarity with writing bug reports and root ...

Showing results 41-60

Junior Lab Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$18.8K

$52K

$87.2K

How much do junior lab assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior lab assistant in Virginia is $52,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,700.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a junior lab assistant do?

A Junior Lab Assistant supports scientists and senior lab staff by performing routine laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, organizing equipment, cleaning workspaces, and recording data. They help ensure that experiments run smoothly by maintaining an organized and safe laboratory environment. Junior Lab Assistants may also assist with basic experiments and handle administrative tasks, making them an essential part of the lab team. This role is often entry-level and provides valuable hands-on experience for those interested in scientific research or laboratory work.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a junior lab assistant?

To thrive as a Junior Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data entry systems, and basic software like Microsoft Excel is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure the accuracy and safety of lab procedures, supporting reliable research and daily operations.

What challenges might a junior lab assistant face when learning to maintain laboratory equipment?

As a Junior Lab Assistant, you may encounter challenges in understanding the proper handling and calibration of complex laboratory equipment, especially when you are new to the environment. Each instrument may have specific maintenance protocols, and mistakes can impact research outcomes. However, most labs provide hands-on training and mentorship from senior staff, so being proactive in asking questions and carefully following standard operating procedures can help you quickly build confidence and competency.

What is the difference between Junior Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectJunior Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or relevant certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentEducational, research, or clinical labs; supervised settingClinical, research, or industrial labs; more independent tasks
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research centers, hospitalsHospitals, biotech firms, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry-level, support roles in labsTechnical, more specialized lab work

The main difference between a Junior Lab Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Junior Lab Assistants typically have a high school diploma and perform basic support tasks under supervision, while Laboratory Technicians usually hold an associate degree and handle more technical, independent duties. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings, but Laboratory Technicians often require more specialized training and experience.

Can you get a junior lab assistant job with no experience?

Junior lab assistant positions often require little to no prior experience, making them accessible to entry-level candidates. Employers typically look for basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols; relevant coursework or certifications can also be beneficial. On-the-job training is common, and demonstrating enthusiasm and a willingness to learn can improve chances of hiring without experience.

What are popular job titles related to Junior Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia?

For Junior Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Junior Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Junior Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Lab Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,012 per year, or $25 per hour.

Summer 2027 GNC / Autonomy Intern

Arlington, VA • On-site

AeroVironment
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$19.25 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in the design and development of GN&C systems for aircraft projects

  • Support system testing, including simulation environments and flight test preparations

  • Help implement and test basic flight control algorithms under supervision


AeroVironment rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Worker Type

Supplemental


Job Description

Summer Internship Program Our paid Summer Internship Program is designed to provide students with an immersive, hands-on experience within the aerospace and defense industry. Interns work alongside AV team members on meaningful projects involving cutting-edge technology while developing professional relationships, strategic problem-solving skills, and practical experience in a full-time work environment.

This is a 12-week, onsite program intended for highly motivated and passionate students who are currently enrolled in college or are recent graduates. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a preference for students at the junior level or above.

Our program has been recognized by Yello and WayUp as one of the Top 100 Internship Programs in the United States for multiple years.

Depending on the team and location, students who are willing to relocate for their internship may be eligible for a relocation and housing reimbursement stipend.

AV offers internship opportunities across various teams and locations throughout the United States. Specific team, location, and program details will be discussed during the interview process.

We are seeking a motivated GNC Engineering Intern to join our multidisciplinary team. In this role, you will support projects related to Guidance, Navigation & Control (GN&C), flight testing, software, and hardware development. This internship offers a hands-on learning opportunity in aerospace systems, providing exposure to flight control systems, testing procedures, and system integration. You will work under the guidance of experienced engineers and gain valuable experience in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Internship Responsibilities

  • Assist in the design and development of GN&C systems for current and future aircraft projects

  • Support system testing, including simulation environments (e.g., SIL/HIL) and basic flight test preparations

  • Help implement and test basic flight control algorithms under supervision

  • Participate in subsystem integration and data analysis activities

  • Support engineering documentation and report writing

  • Collaborate with engineering and test teams to troubleshoot and validate technical solutions

  • Learn and apply engineering processes and tools relevant to flight systems

  • Perform other duties or learning assignments as needed

Basic Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

  • Completed coursework in one or more of the following areas: GN&C, flight dynamics, control systems, embedded systems, or robotics

  • Strong interest in aircraft systems, GN&C, and aerospace engineering

  • Basic proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, or similar modeling tools is a plus

  • Effective communication skills and a collaborative attitude

  • Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and willing to travel domestically (up to 10-20%, if needed)

Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with any of the following: PCB design, embedded programming, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, or flight software development

  • Hands-on project or lab experience involving control systems or autonomous vehicles (e.g., drones, robotics projects)

  • Enthusiastic about learning and contributing to real-world aerospace projects

  • Ability to adapt in a dynamic team-oriented environment

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in an office, lab, or test environment

  • May require standing or sitting for extended periods and use of standard office equipment

This internship is designed to provide practical experience and skill development in aerospace engineering, particularly in the GN&C discipline. Interns will leave with a better understanding of how flight systems are developed, tested, and integrated in real-world applications.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A "U.S. person" according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee. See 22 CFR 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world's most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution's permanent collection in Washington, DC.

Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty - and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company's hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data,sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR


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