How much does a Clinical Laboratory Scientist make?
Clinical Laboratory Scientists play a crucial role in the healthcare industry. They perform tests on bodily fluids to help doctors diagnose and treat patients. Their work is vital and rewarding. The average yearly salary for these professionals is $113,797. This number varies based on experience and location.
Entry-level Clinical Laboratory Scientists often earn around $54,100. As they gain experience, their salaries rise. Those with over 20 years in the field can earn upwards of $172,936. Here is a breakdown of what you might expect at different experience levels:
- 10% earn $54,100 or less
- 20% earn between $54,101 and $64,903
- 30% earn between $64,904 and $75,707
- 40% earn between $75,708 and $86,510
- 50% earn between $86,511 and $97,313
- 60% earn between $97,314 and $108,116
- 70% earn between $108,117 and $118,920
- 80% earn between $118,921 and $129,723
- 90% earn between $129,724 and $140,526
- 95% earn between $140,527 and $151,329
- 99% earn $151,330 or more
What are the highest paying cities for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $165,440
In Chico, California, professionals find rewarding opportunities in labs with a focus on community health. Enloe Medical Center, among other facilities, offers roles that provide hands-on experience with the latest lab technology. The smaller community allows for closer collaboration with colleagues, enhancing learning and professional growth.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $142,939
Modesto provides a vibrant environment for lab scientists, with Kaiser Permanente being a notable employer. The city's focus on healthcare creates a high demand for skilled professionals. Working here offers a chance to make a significant impact on community health with a supportive team.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $140,072
Los Angeles offers a bustling setting for laboratory professionals. With major hospitals like Cedars-Sinai and UCLA Health, there are numerous opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology. The city's diversity and large population present a dynamic work environment with plenty of career advancement.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $130,980
In San Diego, lab scientists benefit from a healthy job market with institutions like Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health. The city’s reputation for innovation means professionals often work with the latest in medical technology. Coastal living adds to the appeal, making it an attractive place for career and leisure.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $114,043
San Francisco provides an exciting opportunity for lab scientists with employers like UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente. The city's tech-savvy culture leads to innovative lab practices. With a high cost of living, the competitive salary helps balance the financial equation.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $87,751
Buffalo offers a mix of community care and academic research for lab scientists. Kaleida Health and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center are prominent employers. The city’s lower cost of living makes it an affordable place to live and work, with a strong sense of community.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $74,386
Houston presents a thriving market for lab professionals, with major employers like Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center. The city's energy sector and healthcare institutions provide diverse opportunities. Houston's warm climate and vibrant cultural scene make it a welcoming place to live and work.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $67,682
San Antonio is a growing hub for lab scientists, with roles available at institutions like University Health System. The city’s strong healthcare sector and family-friendly environment offer a balanced professional and personal life. The lower cost of living enhances job satisfaction.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $65,563
Corpus Christi offers a supportive work environment for lab scientists with CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital being a key employer. The city’s focus on education and healthcare creates a nurturing atmosphere for professional development. The coastal location provides a relaxed lifestyle, ideal for work-life balance.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $64,912
Madison provides a collaborative environment for lab professionals, with University of Wisconsin Hospital being a major employer. The city’s emphasis on education and research leads to innovative lab practices. Madison’s vibrant cultural scene and affordable living make it a desirable place to work and live.
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What are the best companies a Clinical Laboratory Scientist can work for?

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El Camino Health
Average Salary: $157,505
El Camino Health is known for its commitment to quality healthcare in Silicon Valley. They offer a range of positions for Clinical Laboratory Scientists across multiple locations. Their team values innovation and the chance to work with advanced technologies.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $149,922
Sutter Health operates in Northern California, providing high-quality care. They offer Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs with opportunities for growth and development. Their locations include cities like Sacramento and San Francisco, offering diverse work environments.
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CHOC Children's
Average Salary: $133,407
CHOC Children's in Orange County focuses on pediatric care. They seek dedicated Clinical Laboratory Scientists to work in state-of-the-art facilities. Locations include Orange and Mission Viejo, offering a chance to make a difference in children's health.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $131,249
UCLA Health in Los Angeles provides top-tier medical services. They offer roles for Clinical Laboratory Scientists in a research-rich environment. Their facilities are located in Westwood, offering access to cutting-edge medical technologies.
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PIH Health
Average Salary: $129,962
PIH Health operates in Southern California, providing quality healthcare services. They offer Clinical Laboratory Scientist positions with opportunities for professional growth. Their locations include Whittier and Downey, offering a blend of urban and suburban settings.
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Sharp HealthCare
Average Salary: $128,889
Sharp HealthCare serves San Diego and the surrounding areas. They offer Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs with a focus on patient care. Their facilities include San Diego and Chula Vista, providing diverse work experiences.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $127,033
Kaiser Permanente is one of the largest healthcare providers in the nation. They offer Clinical Laboratory Scientist positions with competitive salaries. Locations span Northern and Southern California, ensuring a wide range of opportunities.
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Keck Medicine of USC
Average Salary: $126,344
Keck Medicine of USC combines academic excellence with patient care. They offer roles for Clinical Laboratory Scientists in a teaching hospital setting. Their main locations are in Los Angeles, offering access to a vibrant academic environment.
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Guardant Health
Average Salary: $125,427
Guardant Health focuses on precision medicine and cancer care. They offer Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs that emphasize innovation. Locations are primarily in the Bay Area, offering a tech-driven work environment.
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City of Hope
Average Salary: $121,160
City of Hope is a renowned cancer research and treatment center. They offer Clinical Laboratory Scientist positions with a focus on cutting-edge research. Their main location is in Duarte, offering a chance to work in a pioneering medical institution.
How to earn more as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?
Clinical Laboratory Scientists can take several steps to increase their earnings. This profession plays a crucial role in healthcare, and those who excel often find more opportunities for advancement. Taking action to boost your salary can lead to better job prospects and career satisfaction.
Consider these key actions to enhance your earnings as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist:
- Obtain Advanced Certifications: Pursue certifications in specialized areas like microbiology or hematology. These can open doors to higher-paying positions.
- Gain Experience: Work in diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, or research labs. Experience builds your skills and makes you more valuable to employers.
- Pursue a Master’s Degree: A master’s degree can lead to roles in management or specialized research, which often pay more.
- Seek Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest techniques and technologies. Attend workshops, seminars, and take online courses to keep your skills sharp.
- Network Professionally: Join professional organizations and attend industry events. Building a strong network can lead to job opportunities that offer higher salaries.



