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Lab Technician Trainee Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Axle

Laboratory Technician

Rockville, MD

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Axle is seeking a Laboratory Technician to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of ... Train new laboratory personnel and trainees on laboratory procedures and protocols. * Work under ...

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Lab Technician Trainee information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$27.4K

$39.3K

$59.4K

How much do lab technician trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab technician trainee in Silver Spring, MD is $39,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $43,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Technician Trainees during their initial months on the job?

Lab Technician Trainees often encounter challenges such as mastering a wide range of laboratory equipment, adhering strictly to safety protocols, and accurately following detailed procedures under supervision. Adjusting to the fast-paced environment and managing multiple tasks simultaneously can also be demanding. However, trainees typically receive comprehensive guidance from experienced technicians and supervisors, which helps them develop confidence and competence over time.

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

To thrive as a Lab Technician Trainee, you need a solid understanding of basic laboratory procedures, scientific principles, and at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data entry systems is typically required, and completion of laboratory safety certification is often beneficial. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurate data handling and collaboration. Mastering these skills and qualities ensures reliable test results, maintains lab safety, and supports the smooth operation of laboratory processes.

What is the difference between Lab Technician Trainee vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab Technician TraineeLab Technician
CredentialsOften enrolled in or recently completed relevant training or certification programsTypically holds an associate degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentSupervised training environment, often in educational or entry-level settingsFull-time laboratory work, performing tests and analysis independently under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in training programs, internships, or entry-level positions within healthcare, research, or industrial labsFull-fledged role in hospitals, research facilities, or industrial labs

The main difference is that a Lab Technician Trainee is in a learning or transitional phase, gaining skills and experience, while a Lab Technician is a fully qualified professional performing laboratory tasks independently.

How to become an entry level lab technician?

To become an entry-level lab technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require an associate degree or relevant certification in laboratory technology or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or training programs and developing skills in laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and equipment operation are also important. Certification from organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) can enhance job prospects.

What are Lab Technician Trainees?

Lab Technician Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in laboratory settings while learning the essential skills and protocols required for laboratory work. Their responsibilities typically include preparing samples, operating basic laboratory equipment, recording data, and following safety procedures under the supervision of senior staff. The trainee role is designed to provide hands-on experience and foundational knowledge necessary for becoming a full-fledged laboratory technician. Most trainees work in environments such as medical, research, or industrial labs. The position often requires attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and adherence to strict safety standards.

Who gets paid more, MLT or MLS?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) and Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) are different roles with MLS typically earning higher salaries due to advanced education and responsibilities. MLS professionals usually have a bachelor's degree and perform more complex testing, which is reflected in higher pay compared to MLTs, who often have an associate degree and perform routine testing.

What is a lab technician trainee?

A lab technician trainee is an individual who is in a training or apprenticeship program to learn laboratory procedures, equipment use, and safety protocols. This role often involves supervised work in a laboratory setting to gain practical experience before becoming a fully qualified lab technician.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

The lowest salary for a lab technician trainee typically starts around minimum wage, which varies by location but is often between $10 and $15 per hour. Entry-level positions may offer lower pay, especially for those without prior experience or certifications, but salaries generally increase with skills and experience in laboratory environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Technician jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Lab Technician jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
Lab Technician Trainee jobs near you

Laboratory Technician

Axle

Rockville, MD

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 hours ago

Job description

(ID: 2026-2413)


Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. With experts in biomedical science, software engineering, and program management, we focus on developing and applying research tools and techniques to empower decision-making and accelerate research discoveries. We work with some of the top research organizations and facilities in the country including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).


Axle is seeking a Laboratory Technician to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the Rockville, MD


Benefits We Offer:

  • 100% Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for Employees
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • 401K match up to 5%
  • Educational Benefits for Career Growth
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Flexible Spending Accounts:
    • Healthcare (FSA)
    • Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK)
    • Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP)
    • Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

Overview

Axle is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support the National Cancer Institute (NCI), Center for Cancer Research, Neuro Oncology Branch (NOB) located in Rockville, MD. This role will support laboratory research activities focused on cancer biology and translational research by performing laboratory experiments, processing patient samples, maintaining laboratory operations, and assisting with molecular and cellular analyses. The ideal candidate will have experience with cell culture, molecular biology techniques, specimen processing, and laboratory operations in a research environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform routine laboratory experiments and analyses according to established protocols.

  • Conduct tissue culture, cell separation, protein analysis, and quantitative and qualitative laboratory testing.

  • Prepare and process biological specimens, including blood, tumor tissue, human normal tissue, tissue culture samples, and preclinical in vivo samples.

  • Extract and prepare DNA and RNA from a variety of biospecimens for downstream analyses.

  • Retrieve, catalog, process, and maintain patient and research samples.

  • Track patient sample analyses, molecular testing results, and timelines for receipt and completion of sample processing.

  • Maintain detailed laboratory records, experimental procedures, protocols, and results.

  • Analyze, summarize, and interpret research data for completeness and validity.

  • Assist with preparation of research data and findings for publications and presentations.

  • Coordinate laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, inventory management, procurement, and supply ordering.

  • Support laboratory management activities and ensure compliance with laboratory procedures.

  • Train new laboratory personnel and trainees on laboratory procedures and protocols.

  • Work under the supervision of senior laboratory staff while supporting ongoing research projects.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline.

  • Minimum of two (2) years of laboratory experience.

  • Experience with:

    • Cell culture

    • Western blotting

    • Immunofluorescence and/or immunohistochemistry

    • DNA and RNA preparation

    • Sample processing and management

  • Strong laboratory documentation and record-keeping skills.

  • Strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including:

    • Word

    • Excel

    • PowerPoint

    • Outlook

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with human blood, tumor tissue, or other clinical biospecimens.

  • Experience supporting cancer research, translational research, or molecular biology studies.

  • Experience maintaining laboratory inventories and coordinating procurement activities.

  • Familiarity with patient sample tracking and research data management.

  • Experience training laboratory personnel or research trainees.

  • Experience working in an NIH, academic, or biomedical research laboratory environment.


Disclaimer: The above description is meant to illustrate the general nature of work and level of effort being performed by individuals assigned to this position or job description. This is not restricted as a complete list of all skills, responsibilities, duties, and/or assignments required. Individuals may be required to perform duties outside of their position, job description or responsibilities as needed.


The diversity of Axle's employees is a tremendous asset. We are firmly committed to providing equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and will not tolerate any illegal discrimination or harassment based on age, race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, status with respect to public assistance, and other characteristics protected under state, federal, or local law and to deter those who aid, abet, or induce discrimination or coerce others to discriminate.


Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact: careers@axleinfo.com


This role has a market-competitive salary with an anticipated base compensation range listed below. Actual salaries will vary depending on a candidate's experience, qualifications, skills, and location.

Salary Range
$70,000—$80,000 USD