1

Laboratory Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Laboratory Research information

See salary details

$8

$22

$41

How much do laboratory research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology can automate certain tasks in laboratory research, such as data analysis and sample processing, but it is unlikely to fully replace lab technicians who perform hands-on experiments, troubleshoot equipment, and ensure safety. Lab technicians' skills in critical thinking, manual dexterity, and interpretation remain essential in the laboratory environment. AI tools are more likely to augment their work rather than replace the role entirely.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Laboratory Research?

Professionals in Laboratory Research typically spend their days planning and conducting experiments, preparing and analyzing samples, documenting results, and maintaining detailed laboratory records. They often operate and troubleshoot specialized laboratory equipment, adhere to safety protocols, and may assist with data interpretation for research projects. Collaboration is common, as laboratory researchers frequently work under the supervision of senior scientists, support cross-disciplinary teams, and participate in group meetings to discuss findings. This role offers exposure to a dynamic environment and the opportunity for growth through ongoing training and involvement in innovative scientific studies.

Who gets paid more, MLS or MLT?

In laboratory research, Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) typically earn higher salaries than Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) due to advanced education, certification, and responsibilities. MLS professionals often have a bachelor's degree and perform more complex testing, which is reflected in higher pay compared to MLTs, who usually hold an associate degree and perform routine testing.

What is the highest paid lab job?

In laboratory research, senior roles such as Principal Investigator or Laboratory Director tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and may involve managing research projects, securing funding, and overseeing staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Laboratory Research position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Laboratory Research, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, meticulous attention to detail, and hands-on laboratory experience, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as spectrometers, PCR machines, centrifuges, and data analysis software like Excel or specialized lab platforms is crucial, and certifications such as GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) may be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, collaboration, and effective written and verbal communication will help you excel in team-oriented projects. These competencies ensure accuracy, efficiency, and safety in conducting experiments and analyzing results in a laboratory setting.

How do I become a lab researcher?

To become a laboratory researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences is required. Gaining laboratory skills, experience with scientific tools and techniques, and often obtaining certifications or advanced degrees can improve job prospects. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential in this role.

What is a Laboratory Research job?

A Laboratory Research job involves conducting experiments, analyzing data, and assisting in scientific investigations in a controlled environment. Researchers work with various equipment, follow protocols, and document findings to support scientific discoveries. These roles are common in fields like biology, chemistry, medicine, and engineering. Laboratory researchers may also collaborate with teams, write reports, and ensure compliance with safety standards.

More about Laboratory Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Laboratory Research jobs? Cities with the most Laboratory Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory Research jobs? The most popular types of Laboratory Research jobs are:
What states have the most Laboratory Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Laboratory Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,815 per year, or $22 per hour.
Mass Spectrometry Laboratory Research Technologist 1

Mass Spectrometry Laboratory Research Technologist 1

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Description
Job Title Mass Spectrometry Laboratory Research Technologist 1
Location Los Alamos, NM, US
Organization Name Actinide Analytical Chemistry
Minimum Salary 87800
Maximum Salary 143000
This position is open for external candidates only to apply.
What You Will Do
The Actinide Analytical Chemistry (C-AAC) Group within Chemistry Division is looking for a Research Technologist to join the Mass Spectrometry team. The position serves the Laboratory's core national security mission areas of weapons science and threat reduction.
The successful applicant will perform analytical chemistry separations and analysis for the characterization of actinide materials. The work involves hands-on processing and subsequent analysis of actinide materials using multi-collector instrumentation. The successful candidate should be familiar with chemical laboratory operations.
Research Technologist 1
  • Perform analytical chemistry techniques: i.e. reagent preparation, sample handling, actinide separations
  • Operate TIMS/ICPMS instruments
  • Ability to work in gloveboxes and hoods with radioactive materials in a nuclear facility
  • Follow approved written procedures and guidelines
  • Communicate effectively with a wide range of personnel from varying fields and with different levels of technical training
  • Work in a team environment
  • Work to QA/QC methods and protocols
  • Provide high quality analytical chemistry results

What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:

  • Knowledge of and experience with TIMS and/or ICPMS measurement techniques or sample preparation
  • Experience working in a laboratory environment
  • Willingness and capability to perform hands-on operations with nuclear material
  • Demonstrated work experience in a team environment while exhibiting collaborative behavior
  • Ability to obtain a DOE Q clearance, which usually requires US citizenship

Education/Experience:
Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 2 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
DOE Order 426.2 a: Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated experience or specialized training for working with radioactive or nuclear materials in an open front hood or glovebox
  • Advanced knowledge and experience in radiological contamination monitoring and control
  • Demonstrated ability to follow formal standard operating procedures under conduct of operations
  • Experience in procurement, assembly, and troubleshooting instrumentation
  • Experience working with TIMS, MC-ICP-MS, or Gas Mass Spectrometer
  • Experience supporting or performing laboratory activities including research, development, sample preparation or sample analysis
  • Active Q clearance

Work Environment:
Work Location : The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 2 years .
Note to Applicants:
Along with your resume, please include a detailed cover letter explaining how you meet each of the minimum requirements and any of the desired qualifications. Please also provide your current contact information.
While the posted salary range for this position is broad, it is highly unusual for selected applicants to be hired at the top end of the range and more common for selected candidates to grown into the full salary band over time.
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
§ PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
§ Dental and vision insurance
§ Free basic life and disability insurance
§ Paid childbirth and parental leave
§ Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
§ Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
§ Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
§ Onsite gyms and wellness programs
§ Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
426.2A: This position is subject to DOE Order 426.2A, Personnel Selection, Training, and Qualification Requirements for DOE Nuclear Facilities, which establishes entry-level requirements to ensure candidates selected for specific positions can successfully perform the requirements of the job.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Employment Status Full Time
Appointment Type Regular
Regular

What Los Alamos National Laboratory employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom