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Lab Associate information

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$14

$24

$38

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Federal Way, WA is $24.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $27.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and typically a degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and efficient support for scientific research or clinical testing.

What are Lab Associates?

Lab Associates are professionals who assist in the daily operations of laboratories by performing tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They typically work under the supervision of scientists or lab managers and help ensure that laboratory procedures are followed safely and accurately. Lab Associates play a crucial role in supporting research and development, quality control, or diagnostic testing in fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the specific lab setting and industry.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers, Principal Investigators, or specialized research scientists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, resulting in higher compensation compared to entry-level lab associate roles.

What is the difference between Lab Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications varyAssociate degree or relevant certification; similar educational background
Work EnvironmentHospitals, research labs, clinicsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, data entry, basic testingPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, recording results
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, research, biotechMedical, industrial, research sectors

Both Lab Associates and Laboratory Technicians work in similar environments and often share educational requirements. The main difference lies in specific job duties, with Laboratory Technicians typically performing more complex tests and equipment maintenance. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What are some typical challenges a Lab Associate might face during day-to-day work, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring precise documentation, and maintaining equipment. Staying organized by keeping detailed lab notes and using lab management software can help streamline workflow. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is vital to address any issues promptly and maintain a safe, efficient laboratory environment. Regularly scheduled equipment checks and proactive troubleshooting also contribute to smoother operations.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's degree or higher in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or laboratory technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory environments, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the industry. Their role supports research, quality control, or diagnostic processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Federal Way, WA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Federal Way, WA are:
What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Medical Lab Technican - Microbiology

Medical Lab Technican - Microbiology

MultiCare Health System

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$30.67 - $50.69/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

MultiCare Health System rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 273 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 884 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Join a team that shares your calling

At MultiCare, you're more than just a job title - you're part of a team built on trust that cares for each other, our patients and our communities. Belonging here means living our mission and values every day. If your purpose and passions align with ours, you'll find a place to grow, do meaningful work and build a career you love in a community that feels like home.


FTE: 1.0_, Shift: Days_, Schedule: Monday- Friday 6:30am-3:00pm with rotating weekends

Position Summary

The Medical Lab Technician (MLT) is an exciting technical opportunity at MultiCare. In this role, you will perform a dynamic range of daily work functions from patient analytic laboratory testing, quality control, to data analysis and technical problem resolutions.

Responsibilities

  • You will receive specimens, establish and maintain positive identification of specimens
  • You will determine suitability of specimen; may reject specimen
  • You will acquire/prepare reagents as needed
  • You will perform instrument maintenance and calibration

Requirements

  • Associate degree
  • Current Certification of Medical Laboratory Technician, MLT (ASCP)CM. or MLT (ASCP) or registry eligible
  • Current Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist Certification or Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist eligible (if duties will include phlebotomy)
  • Minimum one (1) year of previous laboratory experience preferred

About Tacoma General Hospital

MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital, in the heart of Tacoma, WA, is a 367-bed regional medical center delivering cutting-edge care. With a 24-hour Emergency Department, Level II Adult Trauma Center, advanced cardiac, neurological, orthopedic and robotic surgery, Tacoma General combines innovation with compassionate care. Home to the MultiCare Regional Cancer Center, a Family Birth Center and specialized neonatal care in partnership with Mary Bridge Children's, our collaborative, mission-driven teams offer a rewarding environment for career growth and professional excellence.

About the Tacoma Community

Tacoma, just 30 miles south of Seattle, blends big-city amenities with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. From scenic waterfronts and mountain trails to vibrant arts, dining and brewery scenes, Tacoma offers something for everyone - outdoor enthusiasts, families and young professionals alike. With strong schools and universities, it's a city where you can live, work and play.

Why MultiCare?

Rooted in the local community

Partnering with patients, families and neighbors across the Pacific Northwest for more than 140 years.

Growth and education

Competitive tuition assistance, award-winning residencies, fellowships and career development to invest in you.

Well-being and support

Generous PTO, Code Lavender and Employee Assistance Programs to help you maintain balance and feel cared in your work and life.

Living our values

Respect, integrity, kindness and collaboration guide how we care for patients, communities and each other.

Belonging for all

Resource Groups and outreach programs help ensure every team member feels safe, seen, heard and valued.

Pacific Northwest lifestyle

Work and live where natural beauty, adventure and strong community connections are part of everyday life.

Pay and Benefit Expectations

We provide a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive salary, medical, dental and retirement benefits and paid time off. As required by various pay transparency laws, we share a competitive range of compensation for candidates hired into each position. The pay scale is $30.67 - $50.69 USD. However, pay is influenced by factors specific to applicants, including but not limited to: skill set, level of experience, and certification(s) and/or education. If this position is associated with a union contract, pay will be reflective of the appropriate step on the pay scale to which the applicant's years of experience align.

Associated benefit information can be viewed here.

What MultiCare Health System employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About MultiCare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MultiCare’s roots in the Pacific Northwest go back to 1882, with the founding of Tacoma’s first hospital. Over the years, we’ve grown from a Tacoma-centric, hospital-based organization into the largest, community-based, locally governed health system in the state of Washington. Today, our comprehensive system of health includes more than 300 primary, urgent, pediatric and specialty care locations across Washington, Idaho and Oregon, as well as 12 hospitals. We welcome patients from the entire Pacific Northwest region and our 20,000-plus team members — including employees, providers and volunteers — proudly care for the communities we serve. Without a doubt, our organization has changed over the years. But what has never changed, throughout our long history, has been our dedication to the health and wellness of the people of the Pacific Northwest. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we are on a continuous journey to deliver the services that our communities need, and to ensure access to those services, now and in the future.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tacoma, WA, US

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