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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Laboratory Associate information

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$13

$23

$35

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Silver Spring, MD is $23.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $25.87 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 Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:
Associate Scientist I - Bacterial Mutation

Associate Scientist I - Bacterial Mutation

Inotiv

Rockville, MD • On-site

$60K - $79K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 hours ago


Inotiv rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 59 rated research


Job description

Job Title:

Associate Scientist I - Bacterial Mutation

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline (i.e., Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, etc.) with 1+ years' experience working in a research laboratory

Associate degree in a scientific discipline (i.e., Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, etc.) with 3+ years' experience working in a research laboratory

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Life Science, Chemicals or Healthcare industry knowledge preferred
  • Experience in bacterial/cell/tissue culture and aseptic technique
  • Experience with the Ames assay preferred
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to prioritize, organize and manage time effectively

Corporate Responsibilities:

  • Adherence to laboratory health and safety procedures.
  • Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Adherence to applicable company policies and guidelines.
  • Adherence to federal and/or local regulations, as applicable.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Perform a wide variety of in vitro assays or tests required to characterize product or material safety.
  • Make scientific observations, maintain detailed data books/documentation, and ensure all documentation fulfills generally accepted professional/industry standards and GLP regulations.
  • Maintain an understanding of technological principles and applications of the organization's services.
  • Receive instructions on new assignments from the laboratory manager or designee and study directors.
  • Conduct pre-designed assays using basic laboratory techniques and skills.
  • Independently conduct assigned test procedures within constraints of lab scheduling
  • Advise lab manager of factors that may affect the quality and usefulness of data
  • Maintain sterile and good tissue culture techniques.
  • Use and maintain scientific equipment, instrumentation and computer systems.
  • Attend, pre-planning, or operational team meetings as needed.
  • Assist or perform other job duties as assigned.

Professional Responsibilities:

  • Attend continuing education courses or webinars, as appropriate

The annual pay range estimated for this position is $60,600 - $79,900. Please note that salaries vary within the range based on factors including, but not limited to, prior relevant experience, skills, education, certification, location as well as internal equity and market data.

*This position could be offered at different levels for candidates who qualify with a combination of advanced levels of education and/or years of experience. The salary range will adjust along with the level of the role to match the person's relevant experience and/or education level.

Inotiv is a growing contemporary drug discovery and development company where we "Play to Win" in an industry rich with opportunity. Together, we face challenges and together we win in the delivery of world-class drug discovery and development solutions that impact the health and well-being of people all over the world. There's an opportunity for everyone at all phases of a career, each individual's unique skill set has an impact on the work we conduct. If you have the talent and desire to impact the quality of people's lives, we have the career opportunities to make it happen. Join us in embracing research and science to impact the health and well-being of people all over the world.

Salary will be commensurate with experience and responsibilities. Benefits include health and dental coverage, short- and long-term disability, paid time off, paid parental leave, 401K, and more!

Inotiv is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to provide a fair and equal employment opportunity to all persons, regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination and access to benefits and training.


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About Inotiv

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

West Lafayette, IN, US

Year founded

1974

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