ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Trainee Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Uw

Science Communications Specialist

Seattle, WA

$60K - $80K/yr

Attend bi-weekly Baker and weekly King Lab meetings and other lab events to stay updated on ... Profile IPD trainees, visiting scholars, and alumni through blog posts, videos, and social features ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab Trainee JobsLab Trainee Jobs in Seattle, WA

Lab Trainee information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$24

$41

How much do lab trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab trainee in Seattle, WA is $24.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get lab experience with no experience?

Lab trainees can gain experience by volunteering or interning in laboratories, taking relevant courses, and learning basic lab skills such as pipetting and data recording. Obtaining certifications like OSHA or safety training can also improve employability and demonstrate commitment to laboratory work.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Trainees during their initial months, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning to use specialized equipment, and managing time efficiently amidst multiple tasks. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking guidance from experienced team members and regularly reviewing standard operating procedures can ease the transition. Open communication with supervisors and participating in hands-on training sessions also help build confidence and competence in the lab environment.

How to get a lab assistant job without experience?

To secure a lab assistant position without experience, focus on highlighting relevant skills such as attention to detail, basic laboratory techniques, and familiarity with lab equipment. Volunteering, internships, or coursework in science can also strengthen your application and demonstrate your interest in the field.

What is a lab technician trainee?

A lab technician trainee is an individual undergoing supervised training to develop skills in laboratory procedures, equipment use, and safety protocols. This role often serves as an entry point into laboratory careers and may require basic knowledge of science and certification in relevant safety standards.

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

To thrive as a Lab Trainee, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, attention to detail, and often at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, basic data analysis software, and adherence to safety protocols are typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and eagerness to learn help Lab Trainees excel and contribute positively to team dynamics. These skills ensure experiments are conducted accurately, safely, and efficiently, supporting reliable research outcomes.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology can automate certain tasks performed by lab technicians, such as data analysis and sample processing, but it is unlikely to fully replace the role. Lab technicians also require hands-on skills, critical thinking, and oversight that AI cannot replicate entirely. AI tools are more likely to serve as complementary aids to improve efficiency and accuracy in laboratory work.

What is the difference between Lab Trainee vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab TraineeLab Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant education; no formal certification requiredUsually holds a diploma or certification in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, learning-focusedOperational laboratory environment, performing routine tests and procedures
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, hospitals during trainingHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities

In summary, a Lab Trainee is primarily in a learning phase, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Lab Technician is a trained professional responsible for conducting laboratory tests independently.

What are Lab Trainees?

Lab Trainees are individuals who are undergoing training in a laboratory setting to gain practical experience and develop essential skills in scientific research or testing. Their responsibilities often include assisting with experiments, preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and learning laboratory safety protocols. Lab Trainees work under the supervision of experienced scientists or technicians and may be students, recent graduates, or new employees. This position provides foundational experience necessary for a career in science or laboratory technology.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Trainee jobs in Seattle, WA? For Lab Trainee jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Trainee jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Trainee jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Lab Trainee jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Lab Trainee job openings:
Lab Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Trainee job openings in Seattle, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,062 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, UWMC - Montlake Microbiology Lab

Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, UWMC - Montlake Microbiology Lab

University of Washington

Seattle, WA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

University Of Washington School Of Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 538 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Description
Who we're looking for:
The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Trainee/1 with the Microbiology Team at the University of Washington Medical Center - Montlake.
The MLS Trainee/1 plays a key role in improving the health of our patients by reporting pathogens and susceptibility information to providers by using many of the latest methods for identification and susceptibility testing.
Work schedule:
  • 100% FTE
  • Tuesday to Saturday
  • Evening shift

What you'll contribute:
  • Perform various tests for the identification of bacteria, yeast, mold and parasites on the routine benches per laboratory protocols. Perform susceptibility tests (disk diffusion, E-test, MIC and other methods as required) on pathogens per laboratory protocols.
  • Prepare, evaluate, and report direct smears, including but not limited, to Gram stains, KOH preps, Pneumocystis DFA stains, Auramine-O stains, Kinyoun stains and Wright/Giemsa.
  • Perform various serological procedures including PCR, EIA and latex agglutinations.
  • Rotate and maintain competency in all sections where trained.
  • Understand and operate a variety of laboratory equipment (i.e. automated blood culture system, mass spectrometry instrument, automated susceptibility system, Verigene, BioFire, Cepheid Gene Xpert, microscopes, biological safety cabinet and anoxomat) and perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting.
  • Exhibit a working knowledge of the laboratory information system software and teach it to others.
  • Understand quality control requirements and follow policies to validate results.
  • Work independently to manage average workloads and know when to request assistance in case of heavier workloads.
  • Perform work accurately and precisely and recognizes, corrects and documents errors when they occur.
  • Interact with health care providers in a professional manner.
  • Know what results are critical or reportable and follow the policies and procedures for reporting them to appropriate medical staff, epidemiology or Public Health Laboratory.
  • Assist with the evaluation of new tests/equipment and research projects as required.
  • Instruct new employees, medical laboratory scientist students, medical students, residents and fellows in routine procedures.
  • Participate in continuing education and maintain certification by attending DLMP seminars, in services, staff meetings and/or by reading scientific journals and participating in CAP proficiency surveys.

What you'll need:
Requirements for an MLS Trainee:
  • Accredited bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science OR equivalent education/experience AND
  • Eligible to take the Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) within 18 months from date of hire. Failure to attain the certification within 18 months of date of hire may result in a recommendation for termination.

Requirements for an MLS 1:
  • Accredited bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science OR equivalent education/experience AND
  • Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent certifying organization OR certification with specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division AND
  • One (1) year of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee. Up to one (1) year of on-the-job experience performing clinical testing in a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward the experience requirement.

What we offer:
  • Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
  • State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
  • Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
  • Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
  • Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
  • And much more!

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:
A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.
Please visit our website to learn more about our department.
About UW Medicine:
UW Medicine is Washington's only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine's mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow's physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.
Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$37.70 hourly
Pay Range Maximum:
$55.62 hourly
Other Compensation:
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/
Shift:
Permanent Evening Shift (United States of America)
Temporary or Regular?
This is a regular position
FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
100.00%
Union/Bargaining Unit:
SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab Tech
About the UW
Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives - on our campuses, in our state and around the world.
UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.
Our Commitment
The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.

Apply