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Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist information

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$38.5K

$61.7K

$99.5K

How much do lead medical laboratory scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead medical laboratory scientist in the United States is $61,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $73,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead medical laboratory scientist?

Lead Medical Laboratory Scientists are highly trained professionals who oversee laboratory operations, supervise staff, and ensure the accuracy and quality of test results. They perform complex laboratory tests, troubleshoot instruments, and enforce safety and quality control protocols. In addition to their technical expertise, they often train new employees, coordinate schedules, and serve as a liaison between laboratory staff and management. Their leadership helps ensure that medical diagnoses and treatments are based on reliable laboratory data.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead medical laboratory scientist?

To thrive as a Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist, you need advanced knowledge of laboratory procedures, a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field, and certification such as MLS(ASCP). Proficiency with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and relevant quality control protocols is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart by enabling effective team management and collaboration. These competencies ensure accurate test results, regulatory compliance, and efficient laboratory operations.

How does a lead medical laboratory scientist typically balance supervisory responsibilities with hands-on laboratory work?

Lead Medical Laboratory Scientists often split their time between supervising team members and conducting complex laboratory tests themselves. They are responsible for overseeing workflow, ensuring quality control, and mentoring junior staff, while also stepping in to perform or troubleshoot challenging procedures as needed. Effective time management and strong communication skills are crucial, as the role requires both direct leadership and active technical participation. Collaborating closely with pathologists, clinicians, and other laboratory professionals is also a key part of the job, ensuring accurate and timely patient results.

What is the difference between Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist vs Medical Laboratory Scientist?

AspectLead Medical Laboratory ScientistMedical Laboratory Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires ASCP or AMT certification, relevant bachelor's degree, and experienceSame certifications and educational requirements as Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist
Work EnvironmentSupervises lab staff, manages workflows, ensures quality controlPerforms testing, analyzes samples, reports results
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in hospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities with leadership rolesCommon in clinical labs, hospitals, diagnostic centers

The Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist typically holds a supervisory role, overseeing testing processes and staff, while the Medical Laboratory Scientist focuses on performing laboratory tests and analyzing samples. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the lead position involves additional responsibilities in management and quality assurance.

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Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,663 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Laboratory Technician - Lab

Memorial Health System of Southwest Oklahoma

Lawton, OK • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Under the supervision of a Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist or Laboratory Director. The Medical Laboratory Scientist is responsible for the processing of laboratory specimens and reporting of results in all areas of the clinical laboratory. Maintains laboratory documentation of such results; follows laboratory policies and procedures and maintains quality control practices in the laboratory.

Education: Bachelors of Science degree in a science related field and completion of an approved Medical Laboratory Scientist training program or equivalent clinical training. Minimal of at least an Associate Degree or completion of at least 60 semester hours of academic credit from a regionally accredited college/university to include 6 semester hours in Biology AND 6 semester hours in Chemistry OR successful completion of a U.S. military medical training course or equivalent AND Certified/ Registered by a U.S. Certifying Agency as a Medical Laboratory Scientist.

Regulatory Requirements (If Applicable): Certified/Registered or eligible as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, must meet the minimum requirements of the Clinical Laboratory Act of 1988.

Preferred Qualifications: BS degree in Lab Science and completion of an approved Medical Laboratory Scientist training program. Basic computer knowledge.

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