How much does a Clinical Laboratory Scientist make?
Clinical Laboratory Scientists earn a solid salary that matches their expertise and responsibility. On average, they make about $111,909 per year. This can vary based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare setting. Many professionals in this field enjoy competitive pay, reflecting the critical nature of their work in patient care.
The salary range for Clinical Laboratory Scientists can vary widely. At the entry level, salaries start around $53,750. As experience grows, salaries can climb to over $172,000. A Clinical Laboratory Scientist's role is vital in diagnosing and preventing diseases, making their work both rewarding and well-compensated.
What are the highest paying cities for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $163,675
In Chico, laboratory professionals work in a welcoming community. Encompass Health and Oroville Hospital provide key opportunities. The area's mild climate makes for a pleasant work environment.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $142,011
Los Angeles offers a bustling environment for lab experts. Major institutions like Cedars-Sinai and Kaiser Permanente provide many job opportunities. The city's vibrant culture enhances professional growth.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $132,880
Modesto provides a laid-back atmosphere for laboratory scientists. Kaiser Permanente and Memorial Medical Center are prominent employers. The city’s welcoming nature makes it a great place to work and live.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $129,961
San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather. Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health offer excellent career options. The city's lively environment fosters both personal and professional growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $115,480
San Francisco's tech-driven economy creates many opportunities for lab scientists. Companies like UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente are at the forefront. The city’s diverse culture enriches the professional experience.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $87,396
Buffalo offers a mix of urban and small-town living. Kaleida Health and Roswell Park are major employers. The city’s rich history and affordable cost of living make it attractive for professionals.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $74,141
Houston boasts a thriving job market for laboratory professionals. Major employers include Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital. The city’s diverse industries provide ample opportunities for growth.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $69,891
San Antonio offers a vibrant job market for lab experts. Institutions like University Health System and CHRISTUS Santa Rosa provide key opportunities. The city’s warm climate and rich culture enhance the work experience.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $68,045
Corpus Christi offers a friendly environment for laboratory professionals. CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital and Bay Area Medical Center provide key opportunities. The coastal location offers a relaxed lifestyle with a strong job market.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $64,271
Madison provides a supportive environment for lab scientists. UW Health and UnityPoint Health – Meriter are major employers. The city’s strong educational institutions and vibrant community make it an ideal place to work.
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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: $157,241
El Camino Health offers top pay for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They provide jobs in Mountain View and Los Gatos, California. Employees work in advanced labs and enjoy a great work-life balance.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $148,771
Sutter Health pays well for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations in Northern California. Workers here value the company’s commitment to quality patient care.
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CHOC Children's
Average Salary: $133,407
CHOC Children's offers good pay for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They serve children in Orange County, California. The company focuses on pediatric care, making it a special place to work.
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Sharp HealthCare
Average Salary: $131,369
Sharp HealthCare provides competitive salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They have several locations in San Diego, California. Employees enjoy a supportive environment.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $130,447
UCLA Health offers good compensation for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. Located in Los Angeles, California, they focus on research and innovation. The work environment is dynamic and engaging.
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Keck Medicine of USC
Average Salary: $129,856
Keck Medicine of USC pays well for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in Los Angeles, California. Employees benefit from a prestigious affiliation with a top-tier university.
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PIH Health
Average Salary: $129,233
PIH Health offers solid salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They serve communities in Southern California. Workers appreciate the focus on patient-centered care.
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Guardant Health
Average Salary: $127,390
Guardant Health provides good pay for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They are located in Redwood City, California. Employees enjoy working in a cutting-edge biotech company.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $124,945
Kaiser Permanente offers competitive salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations across California. Employees value the company’s comprehensive healthcare services.
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Emanate Health
Average Salary: $118,260
Emanate Health provides reasonable pay for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They serve the Greater Los Angeles area. Employees appreciate the community-focused approach to healthcare.
How to earn more as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?
Clinical Laboratory Scientists play a crucial role in healthcare. They analyze the body's fluids and tissues to help diagnose and treat diseases. This role is both challenging and rewarding. It offers opportunities to grow and earn more. By focusing on key areas, a Clinical Laboratory Scientist can enhance their career and salary.
Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings in this field:
- Advanced Certification: Gaining certifications in specialized areas can lead to higher pay. For example, becoming certified in molecular biology or microbiology can open up more job opportunities and higher salaries.
- Additional Education: Pursuing a master's degree or higher can lead to higher-paying positions. Some roles, like laboratory management, often require advanced degrees.
- Experience: More experience leads to greater expertise. Those with many years of experience can command higher salaries. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies also enhance career prospects.
- Location: Salaries can vary greatly by region. Urban areas or places with a high demand for healthcare services often offer higher pay. Consider relocation if it means a better salary and more opportunities.
- Skills Development: Developing skills in emerging technologies can lead to higher earnings. Skills like data analysis, automation, and advanced laboratory techniques are highly valued in the job market.



