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Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Decatur, AL

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Medical Laboratory Scientist information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$36.1K

$57.8K

$93.3K

How much do medical laboratory scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for medical laboratory scientist in Decatur, AL is $57,806.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,200.00 and $68,900.00 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 tissue, to help physicians diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They use sophisticated equipment and techniques to analyze samples and ensure quality control in the lab. Their work is critical for detecting conditions ranging from infections to cancer and monitoring patient health over time.

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 solid background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science and relevant certification (such as ASCP). Familiarity with laboratory information systems, automated analyzers, and quality control protocols is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills are the soft skills that help professionals excel in this role. These competencies ensure accurate diagnostic testing, reliable results, and safe laboratory operations, all of which are critical to effective patient care.

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

Medical Laboratory Scientists often encounter challenges such as working under tight deadlines, managing high sample volumes, and maintaining accuracy in test results. Balancing these demands requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with clinical teams. Adopting time management strategies and staying current with laboratory best practices can help mitigate stress and ensure reliable outcomes. Additionally, teamwork and regular training are essential for adapting to new technologies and procedures in the laboratory environment.

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

AspectMedical Laboratory ScientistMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related field, certification (e.g., ASCP)Associate's degree or diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilitiesHospitals, clinics, smaller labs
Job RolePerform complex lab tests, analyze results, supervise techniciansPrepare samples, perform routine tests, assist scientists
Work ScopeMore analytical and supervisory responsibilitiesMore technical and routine tasks

Medical Laboratory Scientists and Medical Laboratory Technicians work closely in diagnostic labs, but Medical Laboratory Scientists typically hold higher credentials and perform more complex testing and analysis. Technicians support the lab's daily operations with routine tasks, making both roles essential for accurate diagnostics.

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.

How much do medical laboratory scientists get paid?

Medical laboratory scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $55,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on work setting, such as hospitals or diagnostic labs, and may include benefits like health insurance and paid time off.

What can I do as a medical laboratory scientist?

A medical laboratory scientist performs laboratory tests on patient samples to help diagnose, treat, and monitor diseases. They operate and maintain laboratory equipment, analyze test results, and ensure quality control, often working in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic labs. Certification and proficiency in laboratory techniques are essential for this role.
More about Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs

What job categories do people searching Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Medical Laboratory Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Medical Laboratory Scientist job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,806 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Discovery Life Sciences

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

About Discovery Life Sciences:
Discovery Life Sciences is a trusted provider of genomic, bioanalytic and biospecimen services to hundreds of customers across the United States and around the world. Discovery's expertise focuses on high-throughput sequencing workflow optimization and developing cutting-edge analytical pipelines. Leading biopharma, diagnostic and academic institutions trust us to quickly deliver high-quality biospecimens and reliable, reproducible biomarker data, so they can outpace their competition and push the leading edge of innovation using our Science at your Service TM business model.
Position Summary:
The Clinical Laboratory Scientist will operate in the Discovery Life Sciences Genomics Laboratory, performing an array of genomics testing including pre-analytical and analytical workflows using various sample types to include but not limited to tissues, oral and nasal swabs, blood, urine and plasma. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist will contribute to Discovery's mission by ensuring consistency of practices based on standard operating procedures and is expected to work in a safe manner adhering to all company, state and federal regulatory requirements.
Must-Have Qualifications (Education, Skills, Experience):
  • Bachelor's degree in medical technology or laboratory science from an accredited institution - OR -
  • Bachelor's degree in one of the chemical, physical, or biological sciences from an accredited institution and at least 6 months of acceptable supervised experience and/or relevant training; OR Associate's degree with equivalent experience and/or relevant training
  • 1-2 years of clinical laboratory experience
  • Knowledge of local, state and federal regulations to include but not limited to GCP/GCLP, 21 CFR Part 11, CLIA/CAP EH&S and HIPPA
  • Ability to follow instructions and review laboratory data for quality and consistency
  • Ability to execute and prioritize tasks and drive results with a high focus on quality within the expected timeframe
  • Strong computer, organizational, and time management skills
  • Automation experience desired
  • Proficiency with basic lab functions such as pipetting and basic laboratory math (conversions and calculations)

Key Responsibilities:
  • Execute job functions using independent judgement with minimal supervision
  • Perform pre-analytical and analytical testing procedures in accordance with the laboratory's standard operating procedures to include:
    • Specimen handling and processing
    • Quality Control
    • Preparation and aliquoting of reagents
    • Test analysis to include documentation and data reporting
    • Reporting and maintaining records of all lab tests and procedures

  • Maintaining records that demonstrate proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient samples
  • Adhere to the Laboratory's quality control policies and procedures including executing and documenting all:
    • Quality Control activities
    • Instrument and Procedural calibrations and verifications
    • Equipment maintenance and preventative maintenance
  • Follow the Laboratory's established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable ranges of performance
  • Identify and document problems that may adversely affect test performance, notifying the supervisor or director
  • Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications
  • Operation of basic and specialized laboratory equipment
  • Review, interpret, and monitor test data as required
  • Participate in activities to maintain laboratory operations to include but not limited to:
    • Inventory management
    • Cleaning activities (including execution documentation)
    • Equipment maintenance activities (including execution documentation)
    • Process improvement initiatives
  • Execute and record laboratory reagent and equipment qualifications
  • Report all concerns of quality and/or safety to Laboratory Management or the Safety Officer
  • Communicate effectively, consistently and clearly with Laboratory Management, cross-functional teams/departments and other laboratory staff
  • Perform basic assay and/or equipment troubleshooting that adversely impacts test performance, reporting any issues to Laboratory Management
  • Can execute all workflow activities in at least 1 of the 5 laboratory workflows
  • Ensure compliance with CLIA, CAP, and other relevant regulatory

Compensation and Benefits:
Discovery Life Sciences is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices, and we strive to provide employees with total compensation packages that are market competitive. The exact base pay rate offered for this role will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience.
Your annual salary is only one part of your total compensation package. Other benefits:
  • Competitive salary and benefits package options including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability which start on your first day of employment!
  • 401(k) match program which starts on your first day of employment
  • Time away from work (Generous vacation and paid time off, paid parental leave, paid family leave, etc.)
  • Professional development opportunities and reimbursement for relevant certifications.
  • Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity
  • Team-building activities and social events
  • Employee Referral Program and Colleague Recognition Program

Location and work hours:
  • Onsite - Huntsville, AL
  • Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm local time
  • Less than 5% domestic or international travel required for mandatory site meetings and trainings

We are actively seeking motivated, dedicated individuals like you to join our thriving organization. As a leader in our industry, we offer unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and success.
The Discovery Life Sciences Talent Acquisition team proudly manages and represents all Discovery recruitment activities. We respectfully request that third party staffing agencies refrain from submitting candidates or soliciting meetings to discuss recruiting services.
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorships of any applicant work visas at this time.
Apply Now to join our team!
Visit dls.com/careers for more details.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.