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Lab Associate Jobs in Richmond, VA (NOW HIRING)

ADay in theLife As a QA Associate ,you'llbe responsible forassistingmultiple projects where you ... Take on additional duties and responsibilities as needed to support our dynamic lab team.

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Lab Associate information

See Richmond, VA salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Richmond, VA is $22.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $24.81 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 Richmond, VA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Richmond, VA are:
What cities near Richmond, VA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Richmond, VA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Richmond, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,148 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

QA Associate - Laboratory

Onterris

Richmond, VA

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Us

At Onterris, we build careers grounded in purpose,responsibilityand real-world impact.

"For Planet and Progress" is our north star that guides everything we do. We believe environmental responsibility and human progress are interconnected,interwovenand international. Our scientists, engineers, field teams,consultantsand professionals collaborate across disciplines and geographies, guiding industries and governments, ensuring that communities and environments thrive.

When you join us,you'renot just forging acareer,you'rejoining a movement. A movement for better thinking, smartersolutionsand lasting impact.

Together, we will advance our way of life and protect the integrity of our environment every step of the way.

ADay in theLife
As a QA Associate,you'llbe responsible forassistingmultiple projects where you will haveincreasinginteraction with our multi-disciplinary staff, regulatoryagenciesand clients. You will be part ofa strong teamof committed professionals.

The hourly compensation range for this role is $20.00 to $23.00, commensuratewith experience, skills, and geographic location.

Schedule: Monday - Friday

To thrive in this role,you'llbe comfortable taking ownership of the following responsibilities:

  • Track or perform verifications of laboratory supply equipment to ensure operational reliability per SOP and manufacturer specifications.
  • Perform daily/weekly reviews of appropriate logbooks, bench sheets, or data for Good Documentation Practices (GDP) compliance.
  • Initiate and address non-conformances for corrective actions.
  • Collect and interpret quality control data, create control charts, and audit sample reports to track lab performance and identify trends.
  • Track CAPA and perform or assist with Root Cause Analysis (RCA).
  • Conduct routine internal audits of laboratory processes, documentation, and facilities.
  • Prepare audit checklists, reports, and follow-up on findings.
  • Accurate and timely communication with internal and external clients.
  • Draft, review, and/or revise SOPs, work instructions, forms, or other controlled documents.
  • Review and enter Proficiency Testing (PT) data and results.
  • Troubleshooting and problem-solving.
  • Develop and deliver in-laboratory GDP, ethics, data integrity, safety, and technical training.
  • Maintain training records and competency assessments.
  • Archive documents in accordance with SOPs.
  • Review laboratory data, workflows, and procedures to ensure accuracy and compliance with TNI 2016, ISO 17025, client requirements, and our robust quality system.
  • Support external audits.
  • Communicating relevant updates to applicable people in a timely manner.
  • Adhere to documented quality manual, policies, and health and safety practices and protocols (i.e., use of PPE, chemical hygiene, and waste handling).
  • Take on additional duties and responsibilities as needed to support our dynamic lab team.

YourExpertise andSkills

These requirements reflect the knowledge,skillsand abilities that help you do your best work here.

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a scientific field, or a combination of education, training, and experience.
  • 1+ years of relevant experience working in a laboratory or quality assurance role (or equivalent).
  • Strong understanding of scientific terminology, analytical laboratory procedures, and lab safety.
  • Understanding of physical and chemical principles underlying why procedures are specified the way they are for each method with which they work.
  • Good written and verbal communication, with sharp editorial and proofreading abilities.
  • Ability to collaborate with lab teams to gather, interpret, and document data.
  • Good organization, time management, and communication skills and able to facilitate priorities in an effective manner.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel, SharePoint, and PowerPoint).
  • Familiarity with TNI 2016, ISO 17025 standards, GDP, CAPA, or RCA is a plus.
  • Experience with LIMS.
  • Proficiency using and data visualization tools for reports and graphs.
  • Conflict resolution skills and removes/breakdowns organizational communication barriers.
  • Assertion skills-problem diagnosis, assess corrective action, not blame.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining composure.
  • A team player who can work independently and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced, quality-driven environment.

WorkEnvironment andPhysicalRequirements

The physical and environmental requirements below reflectwhat'stypically needed to perform the essential functions of this role safely and effectively. We may provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities, consistent with applicable law, to support performance of the essential functions.

  • Sitting, standing, and walking
  • Lifting 50 pounds several times a day
  • Overhead lifting of over 20 pounds
  • Works in an office and/or laboratory environment
  • May be exposed to hot and cold environments and extreme weather conditions, including sunlit, rainy and windy conditions
  • May occasionally work shifts up to 12 hours in duration
  • Ability to work occasional evenings or weekends based on workload demands.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing access and reasonableaccommodation in its employment for individuals with disabilities. Clickhereto learn more.

#LI-SG1

Onterris is a leading global environmental solutions company partnering with organizations to solve complex challenges where environmental pressures, regulatory expectations and operational risks intersect. Guided by our mission to advance the way of life without compromising the integrity of our environment, we believe environmental responsibility and human progress are fundamentally connected. Our scientists, engineers, field teams and consultants apply systems thinking that unites science, data and practical expertise to deliver solutions that strengthen our clients' resilience, mitigate risk and protect the air, water and soil that sustain communities, while uncovering responsible paths forward for planet and progress. For more information, visit www.onterris.com.

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We acknowledge that these experiences and perspectives help to enrich our teams and contribute to our ongoing success. We are committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in our employment for all applicants. For US residents, click here to learn more.