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Lab Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Lab Operations Specialist Location McLean, VA 22102 US (Primary) Category Research, Development, and Engineering Job Type Full-Time Career Level Staff Education Bachelor's Degree Travel Up ...

Lab Tech Aide - 2nd Shift

Altavista, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Perform other duties as assigned to support lab operations during the 2nd shift. Qualifications: * High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree or coursework in a science-related field ...

They are seeking a Lab Manager to support one of their Government clients in Arlington, VA, focusing on implementing infrastructure solutions and managing lab operations. Responsibilities : • ...

They are seeking a Lab Manager to support a government client in Arlington, VA, focusing on implementing infrastructure solutions and managing lab operations. Responsibilities : • Applying advanced ...

HVAC Technician II

Newport News, VA · On-site

$58K - $92K/yr

At Jefferson Lab, you'll champion cutting-edge science and operational excellence while shaping the future of discovery. Join us and make your mark - where excellence meets purpose, and great minds ...

... lab operations -recruiting, screening, scheduling, consenting, and running participants through study protocols involving adolescents with ADHD and risk behaviors -supervising undergraduate research ...

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Lab Operations information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$25

$44

How much do lab operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations in Virginia is $25.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

The highest paying laboratory jobs are often senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Principal Investigators, who oversee operations and research. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the industry and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Lab Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Lab Operations, you need a solid background in laboratory techniques, quality control, and safety protocols, typically supported by a degree in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), instrumentation calibration, and regulatory standards like GLP or ISO is essential. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure smooth workflow and collaboration within the lab. These competencies are crucial for maintaining accurate results, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab functioning.

What does a lab operator do?

A lab operator is responsible for managing laboratory equipment, preparing samples, following safety protocols, and recording data accurately. They often use tools like microscopes, pipettes, and lab information management systems (LIMS) to ensure proper testing and analysis. Attention to detail and adherence to standard operating procedures are essential in this role.

What do lab operations do?

Lab operations involve managing the daily functions of a laboratory, including equipment maintenance, inventory management, safety compliance, and process optimization. Professionals in this field ensure that laboratory activities run efficiently, accurately, and safely, often using tools like laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

What is the difference between Lab Operations vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab OperationsLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a science or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentInvolves overseeing lab workflows, managing staff, and ensuring complianceHands-on testing, sample preparation, and data recording in laboratory settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in research labs, clinical labs, and industrial settings for management rolesCommon in clinical, medical, and industrial laboratories for technical tasks

Lab Operations professionals focus on managing laboratory workflows, staff, and compliance, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Laboratory Technicians perform hands-on testing and sample analysis, typically with an associate degree or certification. While both roles are essential in laboratory settings, Lab Operations roles are more managerial and oversight-oriented, whereas Laboratory Technicians are more technical and operational.

What are Lab Operations?

Lab Operations refers to the processes, systems, and people responsible for ensuring that a laboratory runs smoothly and efficiently. This includes managing equipment, supplies, safety protocols, scheduling, and regulatory compliance. Those working in lab operations may coordinate experiments, maintain instruments, oversee inventory, and support researchers or scientists. The goal is to create a safe and organized environment that enables scientific work to be carried out effectively and in compliance with industry standards.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI can automate certain tasks in lab operations, such as data analysis and sample processing, but it is unlikely to fully replace lab technicians who perform hands-on experiments, troubleshoot equipment, and ensure safety. Human oversight remains essential for complex decision-making, quality control, and maintaining laboratory standards. Lab technicians will continue to adapt by working alongside AI tools and developing skills in digital and technical competencies.

What are some common challenges faced in lab operations roles, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in lab operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with safety regulations, managing inventory and equipment calibration, and ensuring smooth workflow coordination among team members. Staying organized and implementing standardized protocols can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, strong communication skills and regular training support efficient collaboration between scientists, technicians, and support staff, which is crucial for minimizing errors and maintaining a productive lab environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Operations jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Lab Operations jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Operations jobs in Virginia? For Lab Operations jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lab Operations Specialist

Lab Operations Specialist

Prescient Edge

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Lab Operations Specialist
Location
McLean, VA 22102 US (Primary)
Category
Research, Development, and Engineering
Job Type
Full-Time
Career Level
Staff
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Travel
Up to 25%
Security Clearance Required
Secret
Job Description
Position Summary:
The Laboratory Operations Specialist (LOS) is a versatile team member who provides comprehensive support across lab activities, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. This role bridges logistics, technical computing applications, and general lab support functions to maintain an efficient, safe, and productive work environment. The LOS shall use functional requirements, specifications and system design documents, such as the Technical Data Package (TDP), to evaluate, identify and manage hardware and software related supply elements. The LOS shall support the Chief Integration Officer (CIO), Lab Manager, and other team members to accomplish tasking related to development, integration and deployment of mission systems. The LOS shall be a self-starter that is able to deliver products with little guidance from designers and senior leadership to meet mission execution and customer needs.
Key Responsibilities:
  • LOS1: Analyze software & hardware architectures, TDPs, designs and functional requirements for aircraft, surface and ground systems and apply the technology in a Mission Lab Environment.
  • LOS2: Receive, track, and organize lab supplies, equipment, and materials.
  • LOS3: Evaluate, identify, document and resolve the life cycle of hardware and software system components to include Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS).
  • LOS4: Draft DMSMS, merging obsolescence, reliability, configuration, and cyber status reports and white papers.
  • LOS5: Support installation, configuration and testing of hardware and software on a variety of hardware and software configurations.
  • LOS6: Develop training material and conduct training.
  • LOS7: Develop plans and conduct component level tests, system tests, & lab tests.
  • LOS8: Support data entry, documentation, and reporting in lab management tools.
  • LOS9: Operate and maintain various software applications to ensure testability of mission system equipment.
  • LOS10: Complete Physical inventory, execute data entry, maintain records, and ensure accurate compliance of contractual requirements.
  • LOS11: Coordinate with team members, engineers, and technicians to ensure operational lab needs are met to include logistics for visitors, demonstrations, or special lab events.
  • LOS11: Ensure compliance with lab safety protocols and cleanliness standards.
  • LOS12: Execute frequent travel to meet Government requirements.
  • LOS12: Obtain and Maintain at least a Secret clearance.
  • LOS13: Be able to accept guidance and direction from Designers, Senior Leaders & the CIO.
  • LOS14: Build visions, business relationships & goals for future endeavors.

Job Requirements
  • Must have a Bachelors Degree in a technical field or 5+ years experience in an technical, scientific, or ILS related field of work.
  • Must be proficient with Microsoft Office Pro tools (Excel, PPT, Word).
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills with attention to detail.
  • Hands-on aptitude for working in a lab, workshop, or technical environment.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Prescient Edge is a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) founded as a counterintelligence (CI) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT) company in 2008. We are a global operations and solutions integrator delivering full-spectrum intelligence analysis support, training, security, and RD&E support solutions to the Department of Defense and throughout the intelligence community. Prescient Edge is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by law. We strive to foster equity and inclusion throughout our organization because we believe that diversity of thought is critical for creating a safe and engaging work environment while also enabling the organization's success.

Prescient Edge logo

About Prescient Edge

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Prescient Edge is a prominent name in the global security industry, based out of McLean, VA, US. Established with the primary mission of harnessing science and technology for safety and security purposes, the company specializes in providing a wide range of products and services. This includes research and development, consulting, global operations support, intelligence evaluation, and advanced data solutions. These offerings make Prescient Edge an integral factor in national defense and commercial innovations.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

2008

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