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Lab Scientist Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

UVA Health

Medical Lab Scientist

Manassas, VA

Medical Lab Scientist Job Code: LA3380 ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA ...

UVA Health

Medical Lab Scientist Senior

Manassas, VA · On-site

Medical Lab Scientist Senior Job Code: LA3385 Sign-On Bonus Available! ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health ...

UVA Health

Medical Lab Scientist Senior

Manassas, VA

Medical Lab Scientist Senior Job Code: LA3385 Sign-On Bonus Available! ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health ...

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All JobsLab Scientist JobsLab Scientist Jobs in Washington, DC

Lab Scientist information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$28

$51

How much do lab scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab scientist in Washington, DC is $28.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $31.59 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 popular job titles related to Lab Scientist jobs in Washington, DC?

For Lab Scientist jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Scientist jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Scientist jobs in Washington, DC are:

Lab Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Scientist job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,485 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist II

Johns Hopkins Healthcare

Columbia, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Johns Hopkins Medicine rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 233 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The Johns Hopkins Hospital is a world-renowned leader in patient care, serving the greater Baltimore community and patients from all across the globe.
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff teams provide support throughout our many specialty departments and centers, from primary visits to emergency care.
What Awaits You?
  • Career growth and development
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Diverse and collaborative working environment
  • Affordable and comprehensive benefits package

Location: JH at Howard County Hospital- General Labs, Howard County, MD
Full Time/ Evening Shift - 3:00pm - 11:30pm
Weekend Rotations Required
***Will Consider Clinical Laboratory Scientist I, II or III***
Position Summary:
  • Demonstrating an advanced level of laboratory experience, the Clinical Lab Scientist 3 (Medical Technologist or Medical Lab Scientist) reports to Pathology Lab Manager, Supervisor or Lead (or assigned Charge). Performs a variety of both routine and complex clinical laboratory tests and records and reports results following standard operating procedures, policies and regulatory guidelines. These require a professional level of knowledge to properly execute and analyze results, especially where results are abnormal or atypical.
  • Supports needs of the laboratory including both pre-analytical and analytical areas as assigned.
  • Provides training of both new hires, current colleagues, students, residents/fellow, and others assigned in the laboratory. Sets up and maintains equipment; monitors quality control standards.
  • Assigned tasks in bringing online new testing and programs, validation, QA, and research support.
  • Responsible for resolving problems, provides expertise in operating equipment or testing protocols, as well as the workflow of specimens.
  • Where assigned reviews lab requisitions and collects pertinent clinical and medical chart data.
  • May perform data entry, pre-analytical set up, routine clerical and service duties as required.
  • May support the laboratory inventory/ordering, and back-up to other tasks as assigned.
  • The CLS3 may serve as "charge" in the absence of Lead, Supervisor, or Manager and are appointed to committees and project teams as needed. The CLS 3 may also be assigned to perform competency testing of others.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
  • BS degree in Medical Lab Sciences, Medical Technology, or Clinical Lab Science related field, required.
  • May consider BS degree in Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology or categorical related field where education included clinical laboratory internship/clinical rotations and degree/experience with an approved Med Tech certification.
  • Work requires formal education/coursework in biology, chemistry, hematology, immunology, cytogenetics and/or microbiology meeting regulatory requirements for testing.

Work Experience:
  • Minimum 2 years of direct clinical laboratory experience is required.

Required Licensure, Certification, On-going Training:
  • For this level, verified certification as a Medical Technologist (MT, MLS) from ASCP or other department approved agency is required and must be maintained at all times by employee.

Important Notices:
***Authorization to Work in the United States: Applicants who require sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered for this position.

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