1

Medical Laboratory Science Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Medical Laboratory Scientist

WA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

New openings exist for Medical Laboratory Scientists to provide services at Joint Base Lewis McChord in Tacoma with travel to surrounding locations for the Armed Services Blood Bank Center.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Medical Laboratory Science information

See Kent, WA salary details

$43.5K

$69.6K

$112.3K

How much do medical laboratory science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for medical laboratory science in Kent, WA is $69,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical laboratory scientist?

Medical laboratory scientists are healthcare professionals who perform laboratory tests on patient samples such as blood, urine, and tissues to help diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They operate sophisticated equipment, analyze results, and ensure the accuracy and reliability of test data. Their work is vital for doctors to make informed decisions about patient care. Medical laboratory scientists typically work in hospitals, clinics, research labs, and public health organizations.

What are medical laboratory science jobs?

There are multiple jobs in the medical laboratory science industry that help ensure an accurate and efficient testing process. Your duties vary depending on your employer, but generally, your responsibilities include gathering specimen, conducting research and analysis, recording data, developing experiments, using data to diagnose diseases and conditions, documenting test results, and caring for the equipment. Positions are available as a clinical analyst or researcher in chemistry, biology, hematology, immunology, and other sciences. There are also positions in public health related to medical laboratory sciences.

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

To thrive as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science and national certification (such as ASCP). Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and quality control protocols is essential. Detail orientation, critical thinking, and effective communication help professionals accurately interpret results and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure precise diagnostic testing, patient safety, and reliable support for clinical decision-making.

What are some common challenges faced by medical laboratory scientists, and how can they be managed effectively?

Medical laboratory scientists often face challenges such as maintaining accuracy under time pressure, managing high sample volumes, and staying updated with rapidly evolving technology. Effective time management, attention to detail, and ongoing professional development are crucial for success. Collaborating closely with colleagues and following strict quality control procedures can help minimize errors and ensure reliable test results, which are essential for patient care.

What is the difference between Medical Laboratory Science vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectMedical Laboratory ScienceMedical Laboratory Technician
EducationBachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related fieldAssociate's degree or diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology
CertificationsTypically required certification (e.g., ASCP)Certification often required or preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Job RolePerform complex lab tests, analyze results, oversee lab operationsPerform routine lab tests, prepare samples, assist in testing

Medical Laboratory Science professionals usually hold a bachelor's degree and perform advanced testing and analysis, while Medical Laboratory Technicians typically have an associate's degree and handle routine lab tasks. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Do medical laboratory scientists make good money?

Medical laboratory scientists typically earn a competitive salary that varies by location and experience, with median annual wages often above the national average for healthcare support roles. They require specialized training and certification, and their salaries can increase with additional skills or advanced positions in laboratories or healthcare settings.

What can I do with a medical laboratory science degree?

A medical laboratory science degree prepares individuals to work as medical laboratory technologists or scientists, performing diagnostic tests on patient samples in clinical laboratories. Graduates can work in hospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities, or public health agencies, often requiring certification and proficiency with laboratory equipment and procedures.

What jobs can I get with medical laboratory science?

With a degree in medical laboratory science, you can work as a medical laboratory technologist, clinical laboratory scientist, or medical laboratory technician. These roles involve performing diagnostic tests in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic laboratories, often requiring knowledge of laboratory equipment, quality control, and safety protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Laboratory Science jobs in Kent, WA?

The most popular types of Medical Laboratory Science jobs in Kent, WA are:

What job categories do people searching Medical Laboratory Science jobs in Kent, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Medical Laboratory Science jobs in Kent, WA are:

What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Medical Laboratory Science jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA with the most Medical Laboratory Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Medical Laboratory Science job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,611 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee/1, Immunology Laboratory

University of Washington

Renton, WA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


University Of Washington School Of Medicine rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

82nd of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description
Who we're looking for:
The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Trainee/1 with the Immunology Laboratory at the Renton Central Laboratory.
The Immunology Lab performs a wide range of unique assays from a variety of specialty clinics. We offer autoantibody testing, as well as run electrophoresis, IFA, allergy and ELISA assays, as well as many other manual and automated tests. We also do a CSF specific transferrin test, which runs electrophoresis and immunofixation on a body fluid in parallel with serum to check for CSF leakage. Additionally, we work in conjunction with the Dr. Nghiem Lab, which is the only lab in the world that currently runs the Anti-Merkel Cell Panel for Merkel Cell Carcinoma.
Work schedule:
  • 100% FTE
  • Monday - Friday
  • Day shift

What you'll contribute:
Perform clinical laboratory tests used in the screening, diagnosing, and treating of pathological conditions:
  • Perform laboratory testing on samples (i.e., patient, research, and proficiency testing), accurately and precisely, as assigned:
    • Using the following types of instruments:
      • Automated Immunoanalyzers (e.g., Binding Site Optilite, BioRad BioPlex, Phadia250)
      • Automated IFA and/or ELISA processors (e.g., BioRad PhD).
      • Electrophoresis apparatus and scanners (e.g., Sebia Phoresis, Assist, Hydrasys)
      • Immunofluorescent microscopes (Nikon and Zeiss)
      • Magpix Luminex instrument, Euroimmun Immunblot
    • Manual assays. Examples:
      • ELISA
      • Radial Immunodiffusion
      • Line Blot Assays
      • Cold Agglutinin Titers
      • Viscosity measurements
      • Cryoglobulins/Cryofibrinogens
    • Subjective immunofluorescence microscopy. Examples:
      • Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA)
      • Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)
      • Other cytoplasmic antibodies on tissue substrates
  • Use a variety of computer systems/programs including, but not limited to:
    • Instrument linked computers
    • Sunquest LIS
    • Lab Medicine server systems
    • UW Medicine systems (e.g., Epic)
    • Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook
    • MyChem
    • MediaLab
  • Be familiar with and able to use the Immunology Lab procedure and quick reference guides.
  • Perform maintenance procedures, daily, weekly and monthly on Immunology instruments according to SOPs.
  • Run Quality Controls (QC) according to SOPs. Evaluate QC results and take appropriate steps with there are QC failures.
  • Troubleshoot instrument issues, interacting appropriately with technical support services.
  • Work independently and manage assigned workload; ask for help if needed.
  • Help others and/or work on projects when scheduled assignments are completed.
  • Participate in laboratory quality improvement projects and method validation studies.
  • Participate in laboratory staff meetings.
  • Review all intra laboratory communication documents (e.g., Microsoft Teams posting, meeting notes, procedure/job aids changes)
  • Enter patient and Quality Control Data into the LIS. Notify Client Support Services to fax results as needed.
  • Monitor reagent inventories and ensure that supplies arrive in time to perform validation studies before they are needed for clinical testing.
  • Monitor quality control materials and ensure that new supplies are checked out and ready for use.
  • Answer questions from other laboratories and providers about the testing services offered in the Immunology lab.
  • Train and teach new employees, medical students, DLMP Residents, and MLS program students.
  • Work to maintain a safe working environment in the laboratory.
  • Participate in technical Competency Assessment programs.
  • Participate in continuing education programs, as scheduled.
  • Be familiar with Departmental "Environment of Care" Policies, Workplace Safety Protocols, patient confidentiality policies, and all SOPs regarding departmental and divisional compliance and integrity in the workplace.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

What you'll need:
Requirements for an MLS Trainee:
  • Accredited bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
  • Eligible to take the Medical Laboratory Scientist or categorical certification examination from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) within 18 months from date of hire. Failure to attain the certification within 18 months of date of hire may result in a recommendation for termination.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Requirements for an MLS 1:
  • Accredited bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
  • Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent certifying organization OR certification with specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division AND
  • One (1) year of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist Trainee. Up to one (1) year of on-the-job experience performing clinical testing in a Medical Laboratory Science Program externship may count toward the experience requirement.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Desired qualifications:
  • Experience with Immunology assays and instruments
  • Excellent communication skills with colleagues

What we offer:
  • Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
  • State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
  • Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
  • Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
  • Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
  • And much more!

About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:
A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.
Please visit our website to learn more about our department.
About UW Medicine:
UW Medicine is Washington's only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine's mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow's physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.
Become part of our team. Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$38.46 hourly
Pay Range Maximum:
$56.73 hourly
Other Compensation:
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/
Shift:
First Shift (United States of America)
Temporary or Regular?
This is a regular position
FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
100.00%
Union/Bargaining Unit:
SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab Tech
About the UW
Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives - on our campuses, in our state and around the world.
UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.
Our Commitment
The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.

What University Of Washington School Of Medicine employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom