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Lab Trainee Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Science Communications Specialist

Seattle, WA · On-site

$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 ...

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Lab Trainee information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$24

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How much do lab trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 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.

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.

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.

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 cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Lab Trainee jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Lab Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Trainee job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,062 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Renton Central Lab: Immunology

Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Renton Central Lab: Immunology

University of Washington

Seattle, WA • On-site, Remote

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


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

179th of 552 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 Immunology Laboratory at the Renton Central Laboratory.
The Immunology Lab performs a wide range of unique assays from a variety of specialty clinics. We offer autoantibody testing, as well as run electrophoresis, IFA, allergy and ELISA assays, as well as many other manual and automated tests. We also do a CSF specific transferrin test, which runs electrophoresis and immunofixation on a body fluid in parallel with serum to check for CSF leakage. Additionally, we work in conjunction with the Dr. Nghiem Lab, which is the only lab in the world that currently runs the Anti-Merkel Cell Panel for Merkel Cell Carcinoma.
Work schedule:
  • 75% FTE (30 hours per week)
  • Monday - Friday
  • Day shift

What you'll contribute:
Perform clinical laboratory tests used in the screening, diagnosing, and treating of pathological conditions:
  • Perform laboratory testing on samples (i.e., patient, research, and proficiency testing), accurately and precisely, as assigned:
    • Using the following types of instruments:
      • Automated Immunoanalyzers (e.g., Binding Site Optilite, BioRad BioPlex, Phadia250)
      • Automated IFA and/or ELISA processors (e.g., BioRad PhD).
      • Electrophoresis apparatus and scanners (e.g., Sebia Phoresis, Assist, Hydrasys)
      • Immunofluorescent microscopes (Nikon and Zeiss)
      • Magpix Luminex instrument, Euroimmun Immunblot
    • Manual assays. Examples:
      • ELISA
      • Radial Immunodiffusion
      • Line Blot Assays
      • Cold Agglutinin Titers
      • Viscosity measurements
      • Cryoglobulins/Cryofibrinogens
    • Subjective immunofluorescence microscopy. Examples:
      • Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA)
      • Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)
      • Other cytoplasmic antibodies on tissue substrates
  • Use a variety of computer systems/programs including, but not limited to:
    • Instrument linked computers
    • Sunquest LIS
    • Lab Medicine server systems
    • UW Medicine systems (e.g., Epic)
    • Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook
    • MyChem
    • MediaLab
  • Be familiar with and able to use the Immunology Lab procedure and quick reference guides.
  • Perform maintenance procedures, daily, weekly and monthly on Immunology instruments according to SOPs.
  • Run Quality Controls (QC) according to SOPs. Evaluate QC results and take appropriate steps with there are QC failures.
  • Troubleshoot instrument issues, interacting appropriately with technical support services.
  • Work independently and manage assigned workload; ask for help if needed.
  • Help others and/or work on projects when scheduled assignments are completed.
  • Participate in laboratory quality improvement projects and method validation studies.
  • Participate in laboratory staff meetings.
  • Review all intra laboratory communication documents (e.g., Microsoft Teams posting, meeting notes, procedure/job aids changes)
  • Enter patient and Quality Control Data into the LIS. Notify Client Support Services to fax results as needed.
  • Monitor reagent inventories and ensure that supplies arrive in time to perform validation studies before they are needed for clinical testing.
  • Monitor quality control materials and ensure that new supplies are checked out and ready for use.
  • Answer questions from other laboratories and providers about the testing services offered in the Immunology lab.
  • Train and teach new employees, medical students, DLMP Residents, and MLS program students.
  • Work to maintain a safe working environment in the laboratory.
  • Participate in technical Competency Assessment programs.
  • Participate in continuing education programs, as scheduled.
  • Be familiar with Departmental "Environment of Care" Policies, Workplace Safety Protocols, patient confidentiality policies, and all SOPs regarding departmental and divisional compliance and integrity in the workplace.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

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.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
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.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Desired qualifications:
  • Experience with Immunology assays and instruments
  • Excellent communication skills with colleagues

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:
$38.46 hourly
Pay Range Maximum:
$56.73 hourly
Other Compensation:
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/
Shift:
First Shift (United States of America)
Temporary or Regular?
This is a regular position
FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
75.00%
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.

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