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Research Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Concrete Research Technician - Level 2 Location: McLean, VA (Turner-Fairbank Highway Research ... If you enjoy working with your hands, operating lab equipment, and being part of a mission‐driven ...

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Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research / Scientific The Halassa Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant. Led by Dr. Michael Halassa, the lab uses ...

The lab is located within the Center for Exercise Medicine Research (CEMR) in the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) in Roanoke Virginia. The successful candidate will work on NIH-funded ...

Molecular Ecology Lab Manager

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Our molecular ecology research uses DNA metabarcoding and environmental DNA (eDNA) to track food webs, seed dispersal, and pollination networks in the Mariana Islands. The lab manager will play a ...

Part Time Research Technician

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Research / Scientific The Ye Lab, led by Principal Investigator Qi Ye, Ph.D., at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute Cancer Research Center in Washington, DC, is seeking a part-time Research ...

Research Scientist Sr ISCI

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$97.80K - $124.60K/yr

Oversee the strategic development and operations of an exercise oncology research lab, including integration with clinical services, research infrastructure, and multidisciplinary collaborations.

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$41

How much do research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab in Virginia is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in a Research Lab position, you need strong analytical skills, scientific knowledge in your field, and typically at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related discipline. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success. These abilities ensure accurate experimentation, meaningful results, and a safe, collaborative research environment.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a research lab environment?

Working in a research lab often involves navigating tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, and troubleshooting experimental setbacks. Collaboration is key, as you'll frequently work alongside other researchers, lab technicians, and sometimes students, which requires strong communication skills. Additionally, maintaining meticulous records and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of research findings. Overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding and can help foster valuable problem-solving and teamwork skills for your future career.

What is a research lab?

A research lab is a specialized facility where scientists, researchers, or students conduct experiments and investigations to advance knowledge in a particular field. Research labs can be found in universities, hospitals, private companies, or government institutions and are equipped with tools and equipment tailored to their focus area. These labs support a variety of activities, such as basic or applied research, testing, and product development, often following strict safety and ethical guidelines.

What is the difference between Research Lab vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch LabResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically advanced degrees (Master's or PhD)Bachelor's or ongoing graduate studies
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, research facilitiesAssist in experiments, data collection in labs or field
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporate R&DUniversities, research projects, government agencies

Research Lab refers to a facility or organization conducting scientific research, often led by senior researchers. A Research Assistant is a role within a research lab, supporting experiments and data analysis. While both are involved in research activities, Research Lab is the environment or organization, whereas Research Assistant is a specific job position within that environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research Lab jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Research Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Lab job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,422 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Research Laboratory Technician

AGR

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

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


Job description

Concrete Research Technician – Level 2

Location: McLean, VA (Turner–Fairbank Highway Research Center)

Type: Full-Time, On-Site Monday – Friday

Impact: Help shape the future of America's highway infrastructure

Clearance: must be able to pass a federal background check (US Citizen or work authorization with 3 of last 5 years residing in the US, High School Grad)

About the Opportunity

Join a nationally recognized federal research center and play a hands‐on role in advancing the science of concrete materials. As a Concrete Research Technician – Level 2, you'll support cutting‐edge research that directly influences the durability, safety, and performance of U.S. highways and bridges.

If you enjoy working with your hands, operating lab equipment, and being part of a mission‐driven engineering team, this role is a great fit.

What You'll Do

  • Prepare concrete, mortar, and paste mixtures for research studies
  • Perform standardized concrete tests (ASTM/AASHTO) with precision
  • Assist engineers with specimen fabrication, durability testing, and data collection
  • Operate and maintain lab equipment, curing systems, and conditioning chambers
  • Keep the lab organized, safe, and ready for daily research activities
  • Support innovative projects that improve national infrastructure

What You Bring

  • ACI Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician – Level 1 certification (ACI Field + Strength + Aggregate certs)
  • 2+ years of hands‐on experience in a concrete or materials research lab
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort using tools and lab equipment
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs and work in an active laboratory environment
  • Attention to detail, reliability, and a commitment to safety

Bonus Skills (Not Required)

  • Experience with hydraulic or mechanical testing systems
  • Familiarity with curing tanks, humidity/temperature chambers, or vacuum systems
  • Basic instrumentation or data collection experience
  • Forklift or overhead crane experience (training available)

Why You'll Love Working Here

  • Work with state‐of‐the‐art equipment in a premier federal research facility
  • Contribute to real‐world improvements in concrete pavements and structures
  • Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and national experts
  • Grow your skills through training, certifications, and hands‐on experience

About AGR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US