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Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Axle is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) located in ...

Axle is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) located in ...

The CIS Laboratory Assistant provides support to students by resolving computer problems, answering questions, and facilitating communication with the lab instructor. Responsibilities : โ€ข Assist ...

CIS Laboratory Assistant

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Responsibilities * Assist students with laboratory equipment * Prepares laboratory spaces as needed. This includes set up off equipment and appropriate sanitization of equipment. * Be knowledgeable ...

Laboratory Technician

Glen Burnie, MD ยท On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Minimum of one-year relevant experience as a Laboratory Assistant with Clinical lab/histology experience desired. Knowledge, Competencies & Skills: * Ability to multi-task, self-motivation ...

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Laboratory Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory assistant in Washington is $22.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory assistant?

Laboratory assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, and lab technicians by performing routine tasks in laboratories. Their duties often include preparing and cleaning lab equipment, collecting and labeling samples, conducting basic experiments, and maintaining accurate records of their work. They play a crucial role in ensuring that laboratories run smoothly and efficiently, and their work helps facilitate scientific research and development. Laboratory assistants may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, research institutions, and educational facilities.

What are some common challenges laboratory assistants face in maintaining accuracy and safety in their daily tasks?

Laboratory Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple samples simultaneously while adhering to strict protocols for accuracy and contamination prevention. Ensuring proper labeling, handling hazardous materials safely, and maintaining detailed records are essential responsibilities that require attention to detail and strong time management skills. Collaboration with scientists and technicians is also important, as clear communication helps prevent errors and promotes a safe, efficient work environment. Staying up-to-date on safety procedures and laboratory best practices is key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, sample handling, and safety protocols, usually supported by a relevant science degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), basic laboratory equipment, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for maintaining accuracy and collaborating with team members. These abilities ensure reliable results, uphold safety standards, and support the overall efficiency and integrity of laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Laboratory Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationPost-secondary education, often a diploma or associate degree in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labs, educational institutionsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial laboratories
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample collection, preparing specimens, cleaning equipmentPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment
Common UsageOften entry-level, supporting technical staffMore technical, with independent testing responsibilities

Laboratory Assistants typically support laboratory operations with basic tasks and require minimal formal education. Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis, often needing specialized training or certification. Both roles are essential in lab settings, but Laboratory Technicians usually have a higher level of technical responsibility.

Do you need qualifications to be a laboratory assistant?

Laboratory assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and basic knowledge of safety procedures.

How do you become a laboratory assistant?

To become a laboratory assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant laboratory or scientific coursework. Some positions require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques, and strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are important for success.

How much does a laboratory assistant get paid?

The average salary for a laboratory assistant varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, often working in clinical, research, or industrial labs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Assistant jobs in Washington?

For Laboratory Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Assistant jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Assistant jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Laboratory Assistant jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Laboratory Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,697 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant

Bethesda, MD โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

(ID: 2026-3313)


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 Assistant to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) located in Hamilton, MT.


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)

Position Information:

To provide services and deliverables through performance of support services.

Additional Qualifications:

Certifications & Licenses

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent.

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

Field of Study

  • Miscellaneous Biology

Software

  • Microsoft Office

Skills

  • Experience working in a complex, demanding and faced paced dynamic work environment.

Deliverables:

  • Work products and documents related to ensuring proper operation and daily maintenance of all equipment (wash machine, oven, autoclave). - Daily

  • Work products and documents related to performing visual inspections and adhering to quality assurance plan for glassware procedures. - Ad-Hoc

  • Work products and documents related to assisting the Media Lab with glassware needs and administrative tasks as needed. - Daily

Statement of Work Details:

  • Segregate clean, process and return cleaned items to designated "pickup shelves" or to stock shelves. - 1
  • Order and stock standard laboratory glassware and associated supplies. - 2
  • Clean and sterilize glassware, plasticware and hand instruments as appropriate. - 3
  • Provides laboratory experience needed to order, maintain and sterilize commonly used laboratory supplies.

  • Prepares instruments, linens and other necessary lab equipment for use and decontaminates biohazardous waste.

  • Keep admin staff updated on issues and problems pertaining to glassware procedures and needed repairs to equipment.

  • Communicate with the lab staff daily to ensure their needs are being met.

  • Maintains and cleans laboratory.

  • Maintain adequate levels of glassware items for laboratories.

  • Ensure adequate supplies for operation are kept on hand to maintain operation.

  • Properly prepare cleaned glassware to ensure sterility for lab personnel (i.e. plug pipettes as appropriate).

  • Perform QC for each item washed to check for residue, cracks or other imperfections; assisting with discarding any items that are no longer able to meet laboratory standards.

  • Collects receiving and packing slips and tracks supply orders.

  • Utilize AMBIS system to order supplies for glassware operation.

  • Maintain detailed daily reports on items washed; transfer handwritten logs to excel spreadsheet and provide monthly to Government representative.

  • Pick up dirty glassware from Media Laboratory and Building 28.

  • Learns and performs basic techniques and procedures.

  • Conduct analytical QA/QC Testing of clean glassware, including utilize laboratory Total Organic Carbon (TOC) analyzer to test for residual levels of alkaline detergent on clean glassware; utilize conductivity instrument to measure washer rinse samples to test for acid detergent residual and inorganic lab contaminants in last rinse; perform routine maintenance of TOC analyzer including persulfate oxidation reagent replenishment, UV bulb maintenance and periodic calibration using calibration standards.

  • Operates commonly used equipment, inspects for proper operation and performs minor maintenance; update staff on equipment problems and update staff on any and all issues and requirements.

  • Assist the Media laboratory personnel with cleaning, organizing and other administrative tasks; clean and set up biosafety cabinet for use to prepare sterile media; acquire and organize necessary glassware to dispense the day's media orders; prepare sterile water; bag and label completed agar plates for customer pick up. Collects and prepares samples for use.

  • Assist Media Lab prepare various media including weighing and mixing ingredients; use the pH meter to adjust pH of media; dispense media into glassware and/or pour agar plates; access Media Lab database to check for new media orders and process completed.

  • Assists research and laboratory staff prepare for and conduct experiments.

  • Maintain a supply center located in the clean glassware storage room, including monitor temperatures of refrigerator and freezer, stock supply center and ensure reagents are stored at proper temperatures, charge labs for items taken from supply center; maintain inventory and keep record of item usage for future orders of supplies.


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.