Position
Salary

How much does a Clinical Laboratory Scientist make?

The average salary for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist is $113,797 per year in the US.

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
View Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

Clinical laboratory scientists can expect higher salaries in many West Coast cities. Chico, CA, leads with an average salary of $165,440. Other top cities include Modesto, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, where salaries are also above $140,000. In the East, Buffalo, NY, and Houston, TX, offer competitive salaries, though generally lower than the West Coast. Cities like Madison, WI, and Corpus Christi, TX, present more modest average salaries.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting Chico, CA with the highest at $165,440 and Madison, WI with the lowest at $64,912.
  1. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Chico, CA


  2. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Modesto, CA


  3. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  4. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  6. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Buffalo, NY


  7. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Houston, TX


  8. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in San Antonio, TX


  9. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Corpus Christi, TX


  10. 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.
    Find Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Madison, WI

What are the best companies a Clinical Laboratory Scientist can work for?

Top companies offer competitive salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. El Camino Health pays an average of $157,505, making it one of the best options. Other notable employers include Sutter Health and CHOC Children's, each offering strong compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting El Camino Health with the highest at $157,505 and City of Hope with the lowest at $121,160.
  1. 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.


  2. 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.


  3. 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.


  4. 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.


  5. 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.


  6. 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.


  7. 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.


  8. 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.


  9. 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.


  10. 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:

  1. Obtain Advanced Certifications: Pursue certifications in specialized areas like microbiology or hematology. These can open doors to higher-paying positions.
  2. Gain Experience: Work in diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, or research labs. Experience builds your skills and makes you more valuable to employers.
  3. Pursue a Master’s Degree: A master’s degree can lead to roles in management or specialized research, which often pay more.
  4. Seek Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest techniques and technologies. Attend workshops, seminars, and take online courses to keep your skills sharp.
  5. Network Professionally: Join professional organizations and attend industry events. Building a strong network can lead to job opportunities that offer higher salaries.

Currently 105 Clinical Laboratory Scientist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist in the US?

Learn what a Clinical Laboratory Scientist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist today.
Position
Overview
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
105 Job Openings