1

Lab Scientist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 41-60

Lab Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$25

$44

How much do lab scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab scientist 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 a lab scientist?

Lab scientists, also known as laboratory scientists or clinical laboratory scientists, are professionals who perform tests and analyses on samples such as blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids. They work in medical, research, or industrial laboratories to help diagnose diseases, conduct experiments, and ensure the quality of products or research results. Their role is vital in supporting doctors with accurate data for diagnosis and treatment, as well as advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

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

To thrive as a Lab Scientist, you need a strong background in biology or chemistry, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant science degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments, and safety protocols is essential, and certifications such as ASCP can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, maintain safety standards, and foster successful teamwork in research or clinical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by lab scientists when working on collaborative research projects?

Lab Scientists often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, which can present challenges such as aligning on research objectives, coordinating experiment timelines, and ensuring consistent data sharing protocols. Effective communication and adaptability are essential for managing differing scientific perspectives or methods. Building strong working relationships and leveraging project management tools can help Lab Scientists navigate these challenges and contribute positively to team outcomes.

What is the difference between Lab Scientist vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab ScientistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant science field; often requires certification or licensingAssociate's degree or diploma in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, academic institutionsClinical labs, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesDesign experiments, analyze data, interpret results, develop new testing methodsPrepare samples, operate lab equipment, perform routine tests, record data
Industry UsageUsed across research, healthcare, biotech, and pharmaceutical sectorsPrimarily in clinical diagnostics and routine testing environments

In summary, Lab Scientists typically hold higher educational credentials and focus on research, analysis, and development, while Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample preparation. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Are lab scientists in demand?

Lab scientists are in high demand due to ongoing advancements in healthcare, biotechnology, and research industries. Employment opportunities are expected to grow faster than average, especially for those with specialized skills, certifications, and experience working with laboratory equipment and data analysis tools.

How much do lab scientists get paid?

Lab scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $55,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on specialization, certifications, and the work environment, such as research labs or clinical settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Scientist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Lab Scientist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Lab Scientist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Lab Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Scientist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,066 per year, or $25 per hour.

Laboratory Scientist/MLS/CLS/MT - Chemistry - Days

VCU Health System

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs laboratory tests according to established procedures.

  • Operates, maintains, troubleshoots, and validates lab equipment.

  • Maintains laboratory supplies and inventory.


VCU Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 172 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

**$7,500 Sign On Bonus for offers accepted by September 30, 2026. Terms and Conditions apply**
The Medical Technologist/Medical Laboratory Scientist/Clinical Laboratory Scientist provides accurate and timely testing and results to requesting physicians and other healthcare professionals for use in diagnosis and treatment of disease. Responsible for the analyses of a variety of biological specimens and performs complex lab tests. Consistently utilize excellent customer service skills to both internal and external customers at all times. Position requires a positive and professional interpersonal style with a strong commitment to the team effort.

Essential Job Statements

  • Performs laboratory tests according to established procedures.
  • Operates, maintains, troubleshoots, and validates lab equipment.
  • Performs, documents quality control, and follows established quality assurance guidelines.
  • Assists in educating and training laboratory personnel, students, and residents.
  • Maintains laboratory supplies and inventory.
  • May perform specimen collection, specimen processing and phlebotomy as applicable to specific work location.
  • Ensures the laboratory is maintaining accreditation standards from College of American Pathologist (CAP), Joint Commission (TJ) and other accrediting agency standards as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Patient Population: Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide equitable care appropriate to the age of the patients served on their assigned unit. Demonstrates knowledge and related competencies of the principles of growth and development of the life span and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to their age, specific needs and to provide the equitable care needed as described in departmental policies and procedures. Neonates (0-4 weeks), Infant (1-12 months), Pediatrics (1-12 years), Adolescents (13-17 years), Adults (18-64 years), Geriatrics (65 years and older)

Employment Qualifications

Education Qualifications

Required Education: Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Laboratory Science (BSCLS) from an accredited program or a Bachelor's Degree in a Biological Science* in addition to graduation from an NAACLS-accredited CLS/MT certificate program OR Bachelor's Degree in a Biological Science with 5 or more years of on the job training in a hospital health care environment in a specific lab discipline performing high complexity testing in blood banking, chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology and clinical microscopy (categorical or generalist certification required).

*Unless grandfathered under previous hiring requirements

Preferred Education: Master's Degree in Clinical Laboratory Science (MSCLS) from an accredited program

Licensing/ Certification

Licensure/Certification Required: MLS graduates that are hired upon graduation must obtain certification within 6 months of their graduation date.

Current Certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) by the National Credentialing Agency (NCA) or American Medical Technologists (AMT) National Certifying Agency or equivalent ASCP categorical certification.

Individuals with required Credential Maintenance: technical positions that require certification maintenance, team members must obtain the number CE hours as required by The Board of Certification Credential Maintenance Program (CMP).

Individuals with ASCP certification prior to January 1, 2004, are not required to participate in the certification maintenance program.

Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment: Current Certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) by the National Credentialing Agency (NCA) or American Medical Technologists (AMT) National Certifying Agency or equivalent ASCP categorical certification

Team Members with required Credential Maintenance: technical positions that require certification maintenance, team members must obtain the number CE hours as required by The Board of Certification Credential Maintenance Program (CMP).

Minimum Qualifications

Years and Type of Required Experience: Minimum: Entry Level Medical Laboratory Scientist Graduate

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: Ability to work rotating weekends as required. Ability to work Holidays scheduling as required. Ability to take on call availability as required and for emergency coverage on any shift

Cultural Responsiveness: N/A

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: Previous Medical Technologist, Clinical Lab Scientist or Medical Lab Scientist experience is preferred.

Working Conditions: Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur. General office environment. May be exposed to adverse weather conditions; cold, hot, dust, wind, etc. Required to car travel to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions. May be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights. May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids. * May be exposed to human blood and other potentially infectious materials. * May have periods of constant interruptions.

* Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.

Physical Requirements:

Physical Demands: Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (50-100 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (100+ lbs.), Push/ Pull (0-50 lbs.), Push/ Pull (50-100 lbs.), Stoop, Kneel, Squat, Climbing, Balance, Bending

Work Position: Sitting, Walking, Standing

Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards

Physical Requirements: Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Perform shift work, Hear alarms/telephone/tape recorder, Reach above shoulder, Repetitive arm/hand movements, Finger Dexterity, Color Vision, Acuity - far, Acuity - near

Hazards: Depth perception, Use of Latex Gloves, Exposure to toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents, Exposure to moving mechanical parts, Exposure to dust/fumes, Exposure to potential electrical shock, Exposure to x ray/electromagnetic energy, Exposure to high pitched noises, Gaseous risk exposure

Mental/Sensory -Emotional

Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking

Emotional: Fast pace environment, Steady Pace, Able to Handle Multiple Priorities, Frequent and Intense Customer Interactions, Noisy Environment, Able to Adapt to Frequent Change

Compensation Grade Ranges:

Med Tech: $30.01 - $46.51
Med Tech 3: $33.01 - $51.17
Med Tech 4: $33.01 - $51.17
Actual Salary offers will be based on several key factors to include relevant work experience, credentials, and qualifications.

Days

EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran


What VCU Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom