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Lab Support Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Perform engineering lab support functions including parts ordering, material stocking, and maintaining appropriate inventory levels. * Coordinate and track equipment calibration to ensure all test ...

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Lab Support information

See Washington salary details

$16

$26

$44

How much do lab support jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab support in Washington is $26.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $29.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory support roles, senior positions such as Laboratory Managers or Lead Technicians tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $70,000 annually. Specialized roles requiring advanced certifications or expertise in areas like clinical chemistry or molecular biology can also command higher pay. Salary varies based on experience, location, and the complexity of the work performed.

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

To thrive as a Lab Support professional, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and basic scientific principles, often backed by a degree or coursework in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, inventory management systems, and safety certification (such as OSHA) is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experiment support, maintain a safe work environment, and enable smooth laboratory operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Support professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Support professionals often face challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Balancing the demands of supporting researchers while handling routine maintenance requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Effective communication with scientists and other team members can help prioritize urgent tasks and streamline workflows. Regular training and proactive equipment checks can also minimize disruptions and help Lab Support staff stay ahead of potential issues.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab support worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may require relevant coursework or certifications in laboratory techniques or science, and strong attention to detail and organizational skills are important.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under the supervision of scientists or technicians and may need knowledge of lab procedures and basic technical skills.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Pay can also vary based on whether the role is in a research, clinical, or industrial lab environment.

What are lab support roles?

Lab support roles refer to positions that assist scientists, researchers, or technicians in maintaining laboratory operations. Responsibilities typically include preparing equipment and materials, cleaning and sterilizing instruments, managing inventory, and ensuring lab safety protocols are followed. Lab support staff play a critical role in keeping experiments and research running smoothly by handling essential tasks that allow researchers to focus on scientific work. These roles can be found in academic, clinical, or industrial laboratories.

What is the difference between Lab Support vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab SupportLab Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree or certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentAssisting lab staff, preparing materials, cleaning equipmentPerforming tests, analyzing samples, recording data
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, research labsMedical labs, research institutions, diagnostic centers

Lab Support roles typically involve assisting laboratory staff with preparation and maintenance tasks, requiring minimal formal education. Lab Technicians perform more technical tasks like testing and analysis, often requiring specialized certifications. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings, but Lab Technicians have more technical responsibilities and qualifications.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Lab Support jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Lab Support job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Support job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,010 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Senior Engineering Technician

Senior Engineering Technician

Actalent

Germantown, MD

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Title: sr Engineering Technician

Job Description

The sr Engineering Technician will support complex electronic product development and manufacturing by performing advanced assembly, testing, debugging, and engineering lab support activities. This role operates with a high level of independence, working closely with engineers to execute verification and validation testing, develop computer-controlled test programs, and ensure that products meet rigorous performance and quality standards in a fast-paced, highly technical environment.

Responsibilities

  • Perform advanced technician functions including assembly, testing, and intermediate debugging of hardware, software, circuit boards, and cables.
  • Execute verification and validation testing by following documented test plans created by engineers and provide accurate, timely feedback.
  • Independently perform complex troubleshooting and debugging at the component and board level with minimal input from engineers.
  • Update and maintain test plans, test procedures, and test reports to reflect current product configurations and test outcomes.
  • Create and implement computer-controlled test programs to support product testing and validation activities.
  • Perform engineering lab support functions including parts ordering, material stocking, and maintaining appropriate inventory levels.
  • Coordinate and track equipment calibration to ensure all test and measurement tools remain within required specifications.
  • Manage equipment assignment within the lab to ensure proper usage, availability, and documentation.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe engineering lab environment and support general lab maintenance activities.
  • Load software at the board and component level and verify correct operation during test and debug activities.
  • Operate units and load presets and code at the unit level to support testing, troubleshooting, and product configuration.
  • Use oscilloscopes, power supplies, meters, and other test equipment to perform detailed electrical measurements and diagnostics.
  • Interpret and work from schematics, assembly drawings, and work instructions to build, test, and troubleshoot electronic assemblies.
  • Collaborate with engineers and other technicians to address and resolve issues on the production floor related to product lines.
  • Support the transition of new products from design into manufacturing by assisting with testing, troubleshooting, and documentation updates.
  • Effectively manage and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment while meeting deadlines and quality expectations.
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with team members, engineers, and other stakeholders regarding test results, issues, and progress.
  • Comply with all company guidelines, policies, procedures, and core values while demonstrating a strong, dependable work ethic.

Essential Skills

  • 7+ years of experience as an Engineering Technician.
  • Associate degree in engineering technology (ASEE) or equivalent experience.
  • Practical and theoretical knowledge of electronics.
  • Ability to read and interpret schematics, assembly drawings, and work instructions.
  • Strong component-level and board-level debugging skills.
  • Working knowledge of test equipment including oscilloscopes, power supplies, and meters.
  • Experience utilizing LabVIEW software tools.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to load software at the board and component level.
  • Ability to operate units and load presets and code at the unit level.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and a strong, dependable work ethic.
  • Ability to effectively manage and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to comply with all company guidelines, policies, procedures, and core values.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience supporting verification and validation testing using documented test plans.
  • Experience creating or modifying computer-controlled test programs.
  • Experience working in an engineering design and manufacturing environment.
  • Experience supporting transition of new products from design into manufacturing.
  • Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative technical team.

Work Environment

This position operates in a heavy engineering design and manufacturing environment where products are designed and manufactured in house. The role is fully onsite and involves daily interaction with a team of approximately seven colleagues focused on addressing and troubleshooting issues that occur on the production floor across multiple product lines. The team also plays a key role in transitioning new products from design into manufacturing. You will work with electronic test equipment such as oscilloscopes, power supplies, and meters, as well as software tools including LabVIEW and Microsoft Office, in a hands-on lab and production setting that emphasizes precision, safety, and collaboration.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Germantown, MD.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $34.00 - $45.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Germantown,MD.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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