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Molecular Lab Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Guidehouse

Molecular Biologist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

... * Assist with clinical research when applicable using above mentioned techniques. * Collaborate ... the lab's clinical research goals. * Independently analyze test results and discuss the ...

Guidehouse

Molecular Biologist

Bethesda, MD

$85K - $141K/yr

... * Assist with clinical research when applicable using above mentioned techniques. * Collaborate ... the lab's clinical research goals. * Independently analyze test results and discuss the ...

Guidehouse

Lab Manager

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$98K - $163K/yr

... * Assist in onboarding new lab members and provide guidance on laboratory procedures and best ... Perform and support a range of molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, including but not ...

Guidehouse

Laboratory Technician

Bethesda, MD

$56K - $94K/yr

Perform lab purchasing, receiving, inventory, and maintain lab equipment. * Assist in regular ... Experience with molecular biological techniques, including, but not limited to, pipetting ...

Guidehouse

Laboratory Technician

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$56K - $94K/yr

Perform lab purchasing, receiving, inventory, and maintain lab equipment. * Assist in regular ... Experience with molecular biological techniques, including, but not limited to, pipetting ...

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Molecular Lab Assistant information

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How much do molecular lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for molecular lab assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Molecular Lab Assistants and how can they be addressed?

Molecular Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining accuracy when handling sensitive samples, managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines, and ensuring strict adherence to safety and contamination protocols. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, regularly review standard operating procedures, and communicate effectively with team members. Staying up-to-date with laboratory best practices and participating in ongoing training can also help mitigate errors and improve efficiency in a fast-paced lab environment.

What is the difference between Molecular Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectMolecular Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certification in molecular techniquesHigh school diploma or associate degree; certification varies by specialty
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on molecular biology, genetics, or biomedical researchVarious labs including clinical, research, or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, research institutions, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in molecular biology labsGeneral lab support roles in various scientific fields

The Molecular Lab Assistant primarily supports molecular biology and genetics labs, focusing on tasks like preparing samples and assisting with experiments. Laboratory Technicians have broader responsibilities across different lab types, including clinical and research settings. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Molecular Lab Assistants specialize in molecular techniques, making their work more specific to genetic and molecular testing environments.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Molecular lab assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the employer and work environment, such as research institutions or clinical laboratories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Molecular Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Molecular Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of molecular biology techniques, laboratory safety, and at least an associate's or bachelor's degree in a biological science. Familiarity with PCR machines, spectrophotometers, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and proper sample handling protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and smooth workflow in a team setting. These skills are crucial for maintaining data integrity, supporting research objectives, and ensuring reliable laboratory results.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Molecular lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require postsecondary education such as an associate degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important. Certification or training in laboratory techniques can also be beneficial.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

Molecular Lab Assistants typically do not earn over $100,000; however, higher-paying biology-related roles such as biomedical scientists, biochemists, and molecular biologists often exceed this salary threshold, especially with advanced degrees and experience. These roles may involve research, laboratory work, and data analysis, often requiring specialized skills and certifications.

What are Molecular Lab Assistants?

Molecular Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientists and researchers in laboratories that focus on molecular biology techniques. Their responsibilities typically include preparing samples, setting up and maintaining laboratory equipment, assisting with experiments such as PCR and DNA extraction, and ensuring that lab protocols are followed. They also help with data recording, inventory management, and maintaining a safe and organized lab environment. Molecular Lab Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of research and diagnostic processes within molecular biology labs.

What is the highest salary for a lab assistant?

The highest salary for a molecular lab assistant can vary depending on experience, location, and employer, but it typically ranges up to $50,000 to $60,000 annually in some regions. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in specialized or high-demand laboratories can lead to higher compensation. Most roles start at lower entry-level salaries with potential for growth over time.
What are popular job titles related to Molecular Lab Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Molecular Lab Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Molecular Lab Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Molecular Lab Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Molecular Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Molecular Lab Assistant job openings:
Molecular Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Molecular Lab Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,536 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Molecular Biologist

Guidehouse

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Guidehouse rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 57 rated business consultants

Job description

Job Family:
Research Analyst
Travel Required:
None
Clearance Required:
Ability to Obtain Public Trust
We are currently searching for a Molecular Biologist to provide support to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This is a full-time, on-site opportunity based in Bethesda, MD.
What You Will Do:
  • Serve as technical expert providing state-of-the-art molecular analyses.
  • Work with other laboratory staff on clinical specimen processing and test performance of high complexity Molecular tests.
  • Independently perform Molecular tests on clinical specimens using techniques such as Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), cell separation from blood and bone marrow, DNA/RNA isolation, conventional PCR/RT PCR/Nexted PCR, capillary electrophoresis.
  • Assist with clinical research when applicable using above mentioned techniques.
  • Collaborate with graded Investigator(s) on projects, methods and equipment aiding in meeting the lab's clinical research goals.
  • Independently analyze test results and discuss the interpretation, reliability, validity and significance of the results and work with section senior staff on resulting the report to Hospital Information System (HIS) through Laboratory Information System (LIS).
  • Use a wide variety of bioinformatics approaches and NGS data analysis software, statistical methods and computer programs to collect, organize, and analyze data for optimal retrieval and presentation of results in a clear, concise manner.
  • Provide technical supervision, advice, and assistance over the research work of Clinical Staff Fellows and serve as resource to other biologist/technologists who are working in the laboratory
  • Modify or adapt new methods, techniques and technical procedures to correct deficiencies and to build, improve and expand services in the specialty area of Molecular Hematology.
  • Follow the laboratory's established policies and procedures when test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels of performance.
  • Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results; correct problems or notify staff; document all corrective actions taken.
  • Communicate and consult with pertinent medical personnel regarding collection procedures; troubleshoot any problems with the specimen or documentation.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot problems with equipment such as Nextseq sequencers, thermocyclers (e.g. GeneAmp PCR System), 3500 Genetic Analyzers, ABI 7500 Fast and QuantiStudion 12K Real-Time PCR Systems, and QIASymphony/QIAgility instruments.
  • Oversee all aspects of laboratory safety, quality control, quality assurance and quality improvement (QC/QA/QI) policies and procedures.
  • Document all quality control activities, instrument calibrations and maintenance performed.
  • Maintain records that demonstrate proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens.
  • Organize daily workload based on priorities, rotation schedule and needs of the laboratory and patients.
  • Manage reagents/supplies inventory in the laboratory and help to order reagents/supplies required for the specialty testing for equipment and supply contracts.
  • Collaborate with staff to evaluate and/or develop new techniques; perform comparative studies with older technology; perform evaluations to determine new guidelines.
  • Ensure compliance with accrediting and inspections agency requirements participating in activities associated with the laboratory accreditation process.

What You Will Need:
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Minimum of Four (4) years of clinical molecular testing experience.
  • Experience with Next Generation Sequencing; bioinformatics; quantitative PCR; DNA/RNA purification and quantitation techniques.
  • Knowledge of regulatory guidelines for molecular testing.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD Public Trust. Candidates must receive approved adjudication of their Public Trust prior to onboarding with Guidehouse. Candidates with an active Public Trust or existing suitability are preferred.

What Would Be Nice To Have:
  • Preferred fields of study: Biology, Life Sciences, or a related discipline.
  • ASCP (or similar) certification as a Medical Technologist (MT), Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS), or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), preferred.
  • Ability to adapt to new environment and new work assignment quickly.
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination.
  • Strong communications skills, both oral and written.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to lift 10 - 30 pounds.

The annual salary range for this position is $85,000.00-$141,000.00. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, security clearances, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.
What We Offer:
Guidehouse offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Benefits include:
  • Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
  • Parental Leave
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Group Term Life and Travel Assistance
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Health Savings Account, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Transit and Parking Commuter Benefits
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development, Certifications & Learning Opportunities
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
  • Care.com annual membership
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Supplemental Benefits via Corestream (Critical Care, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Legal Assistance and ID theft protection, etc.)
  • Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus

About Guidehouse
Guidehouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer-Protected Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.
Guidehouse will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law or ordinance including the Fair Chance Ordinance of Los Angeles and San Francisco.
If you have visited our website for information about employment opportunities, or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Guidehouse Recruiting at 1-571-633-1711 or via email at RecruitingAccommodation@guidehouse.com. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodation.
All communication regarding recruitment for a Guidehouse position will be sent from Guidehouse email domains including @guidehouse.com or guidehouse@myworkday.com. Correspondence received by an applicant from any other domain should be considered unauthorized and will not be honored by Guidehouse. Note that Guidehouse will never charge a fee or require a money transfer at any stage of the recruitment process and does not collect fees from educational institutions for participation in a recruitment event. Never provide your banking information to a third party purporting to need that information to proceed in the hiring process.
If any person or organization demands money related to a job opportunity with Guidehouse, please report the matter to Guidehouse's Ethics Hotline. If you want to check the validity of correspondence you have received, please contact recruiting@guidehouse.com. Guidehouse is not responsible for losses incurred (monetary or otherwise) from an applicant's dealings with unauthorized third parties.
Guidehouse does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Guidehouse and Guidehouse will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.

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