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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Associate I - change to Technician Non Certified Job Code: LA1650 Full Time Days ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At ...

Clinical Laboratory Associate II Duties: Performs duties above and beyond CLA I.Actively participate in clinical testing continuous performance improvement activities.Participate in safety rounding ...

Clinical Laboratory Associate II Duties: Performs duties above and beyond CLA I.Actively participate in clinical testing continuous performance improvement activities.Participate in safety rounding ...

Clinical Laboratory Associate III Duties: Performs duties above and beyond CLA II.Actively participate in clinical testing continuous performance improvement activitiesParticipate in safety rounding ...

Clinical Laboratory Associate III Duties: Performs duties above and beyond CLA II.Actively participate in clinical testing continuous performance improvement activitiesParticipate in safety rounding ...

Graduate from an accredited college or university with an associate's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. Experience: * One (1) year of experience in a clinical laboratory environment preferred.

Graduate from an accredited college or university with an associate's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. Experience: * One (1) year of experience in a clinical laboratory environment preferred.

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Laboratory Associate information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Virginia is $22.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and a background in biological or chemical sciences, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), safety protocols, and specialized equipment such as spectrophotometers or centrifuges is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help Laboratory Associates excel in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills ensure accurate results, safety, and efficiency, which are vital for reliable scientific research and operations.

How much does a Laboratory Assistant earn?

Laboratory Assistants typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often involves working with laboratory equipment and following safety protocols.

What are Laboratory Associates?

Laboratory Associates are professionals who assist with various tasks in a laboratory setting, such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They often work under the supervision of scientists or laboratory managers and play a crucial role in supporting research and development activities. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the specific laboratory and industry, but attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of lab safety protocols are essential for this role.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a laboratory associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions require an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or medical technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What are some typical challenges Laboratory Associates face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing tasks such as sample preparation, data collection, and equipment maintenance can be challenging, especially when experiments have overlapping schedules or strict deadlines. Effective communication with team members and clear documentation are crucial to ensure that procedures are followed accurately and results remain reliable. Many labs use digital systems to track progress and share updates, which helps associates manage their workload efficiently.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

The highest paying laboratory jobs are often senior roles such as Laboratory Director, Principal Scientist, or Research Manager, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions typically offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually and involve overseeing laboratory operations, research projects, and compliance. Specialized fields like pharmaceutical or biotech research tend to have higher compensation levels for experienced professionals.

What do lab associates do?

Laboratory associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining lab equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory settings, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need certifications or training in safety protocols.

What is the difference between Laboratory Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationAssociate degree or certification, often similar
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, healthcare, pharmaceutical settingsResearch, clinical, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, research institutions, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Laboratory Associates and Laboratory Technicians often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. Both roles support laboratory operations in healthcare, research, or industrial settings. The main differences are often related to specific job duties and employer terminology, but they are frequently used interchangeably depending on the organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Associate jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Associate jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Associate job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, and 58% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,127 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Laboratory Associate I

$22.88 - $37.12/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


UVA Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Laboratory Associate I - change to Technician Non CertifiedJob Code: LA1650
Full Time Days
 ABOUT US

We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA Health academic health system, we are committed to caring for the whole person by building meaningful connections with our patients in the local setting of UVA Health's community hospitals, outpatient locations, and provider offices. By combining our team's talent and expertise, the breadth of capabilities across the entire UVA Health system, and our dedication to community wellness, we are bringing expert care close to home.

As a member of the UVA Community Health team, individuals contribute to patient care decisions, support advanced medical technologies, and experience the satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives every day.

JOB TYPEClassification: Non ExemptSupervises Positions:JOB SUMMARY

The Laboratory Associate performs moderate and high complexity testing under the general supervision of the Laboratory Manager. This position performs routine laboratory testing, quality control testing, general and instrument maintenance, calling of critical and questionable results to appropriate providers, and resulting of test using laboratory information systems. Additionally, this role performs general troubleshooting of instrumentation, communicating technical information to appropriate persons.

QUALIFICATIONSEducation:

Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Physical, or Biological Sciences, including 24 semester hours of science courses that include: 6 semester hours of chemistry, 6 semester hours of biology, and 12 semester hours of any combination of chemical or biological sciences.

Experience:

1 year of laboratory testing experience preferred. Refer to the Life Support Training Policy for additional details.

Licensure:

N/A

Additional Skills/Requirements Required:

Possess thorough knowledge and understanding or principles and concepts of medical laboratory science. Possess good analytical skill. Skilled in laboratory techniques. Good working knowledge of laboratory analyzers. Must be able to communicate verbally and in writing with healthcare workers and patients. Must be able to work as a "team player" with other technologists, phlebotomists, medical staff, nursing staff, other hospital employees.

Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred:

N/A

Competencies:
  • Patient Care: Shows a commitment to provide the highest level of patient care.
    • Collects, labels, and prepares specimens for testing.
    • Maintains required documentation for all lab procedures.
    • Processes requisitions for testing.
    • Prepares and distributes reports.
  • Safety: Adheres to all workplace and trade safety laws, regulations, standards, and practices.
    • Performs quality control testing to assure accuracy of patient testing.
    • Performs equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
    • Practices safety policies to maintain a safe working environment.
    • Performs all duties to satisfy regulations in preparation for inspections.
  • Teamwork: Cooperates within a team to achieve goals and deliverables.
    • Provides information and consultation to requestors.
    • Recognizes interdependencies with other areas and supports other staff as needed.
    • Shares and initiates regular and professional communication with co-workers.
    • Participates in regular staff meetings.
  • Technical Competence: Uses knowledge that is acquired through training or extensive on-the-job experience to perform one's job.
    • Performs competency and proficiency testing to assure maintenance of skills.
    • Completes educational activities to continually improve skills and assists consultants.
    • Participates in improvement of methods and processes.

The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDSPhysical Demand Code:

Medium to Heavy Physical Demand: The job requires constant standing, frequently walking, and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills. Attention to detail and ability to write legibly. Ability to lift/push/pull 100 lbs. For any weight over 35 lbs., use Safe Handling Equipment. This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described. It may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of UVA Community Health.

OTHER
  • May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes

  • On call responsibilities as directed: Yes

  • Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: Yes


    The base compensation range for this role is $22.88 - $37.12 hourly.  
    Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.  Please note that the pay range does not include any applicable incentive compensation programs such as shift differentials, clinical ladders, and other incentives that may be available for those in eligible positions.


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