How much does a Clinical Laboratory Scientist make?
Clinical Laboratory Scientists play a key role in the healthcare industry. They analyze body fluids and tissue samples to help diagnose and treat diseases. Their work is vital, and it comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist is around $100,402. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and location.
The salary range for Clinical Laboratory Scientists can be quite broad. At the lower end, some professionals earn around $51,850 per year. As experience and skills grow, salaries can rise significantly. The highest earners in this field can make over $162,000 annually. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth and advancement.
What are the highest paying cities for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $128,563
In Los Angeles, professionals can find work in top-tier hospitals like Cedars-Sinai and UCLA Health. The city offers a dynamic environment with many opportunities for career growth and advancement.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $125,000
Chico provides a smaller, community-focused setting. Here, you can work in local clinics and hospitals. The cost of living is lower, making it a great place to start or advance your career.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $117,805
San Diego boasts a strong healthcare sector with employers like Scripps Health and Sharp HealthCare. The city's mild climate and beautiful beaches make it an attractive place to live and work.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $116,005
Modesto offers a more relaxed pace with opportunities in local hospitals like Memorial Medical Center. The city is affordable and provides a good quality of life.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $109,169
Bakersfield has a growing healthcare industry with major employers like Kern Medical Center. The city offers a lower cost of living and a friendly community atmosphere.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $85,092
Buffalo features a robust healthcare system with institutions like Kaleida Health. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with a strong sense of community.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $74,141
Houston is a major hub for healthcare with employers like Texas Children's Hospital and Houston Methodist. The city offers a diverse job market and a vibrant cultural scene.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $68,613
San Antonio has a thriving healthcare sector with employers like University Health System. The city offers a warm climate and a rich cultural heritage.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $67,657
Baltimore offers a mix of urban and suburban opportunities with employers like Johns Hopkins Medicine. The city has a rich history and a strong sense of community.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $66,389
Corpus Christi provides a coastal setting with opportunities in local hospitals like CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital. The city offers a lower cost of living and a relaxed lifestyle.
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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: $157,031
El Camino Health offers rewarding Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs. They operate in Mountain View and Los Gatos, California. Employees enjoy a supportive environment and opportunities for growth.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $147,447
Sutter Health provides excellent opportunities for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations across Northern California, including Sacramento and San Francisco. The company values innovation and teamwork.
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Sharp HealthCare
Average Salary: $131,858
Sharp HealthCare offers competitive salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in San Diego, California. The company focuses on patient care and professional development.
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CHOC Children's
Average Salary: $129,708
CHOC Children's provides rewarding Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs. They are located in Orange County, California. The company is dedicated to children's health and offers a nurturing work environment.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $129,497
Kaiser Permanente offers attractive salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They have locations throughout California. The company emphasizes quality care and employee well-being.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $129,417
UCLA Health provides excellent opportunities for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in Los Angeles, California. The company is known for its research and academic excellence.
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UC Irvine Health
Average Salary: $125,186
UC Irvine Health offers rewarding Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs. They are located in Orange County, California. The company focuses on innovation and patient care.
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PIH Health
Average Salary: $122,585
PIH Health provides competitive salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in Whittier, California. The company values community health and employee satisfaction.
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City of Hope
Average Salary: $117,261
City of Hope offers rewarding Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs. They are located in Duarte, California. The company focuses on cancer research and treatment.
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Emanate Health
Average Salary: $114,437
Emanate Health provides competitive salaries for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in Glendora, California. The company emphasizes patient care and professional growth.
How to earn more as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?
Clinical Laboratory Scientists have the opportunity to increase their earnings through various avenues. One key factor is gaining specialized certifications. These credentials can open doors to higher-paying positions and demonstrate a deeper expertise in specific areas of laboratory science. Another way to earn more is by pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Master's or Doctorate. These higher qualifications can lead to roles with greater responsibilities and higher salaries.
Experience and tenure in the field also play a significant role in earning potential. Those who have worked in the industry for several years often command higher wages due to their accumulated knowledge and skills. Networking and building professional relationships can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation. Lastly, seeking positions in high-demand areas or regions can result in higher pay. Areas with a shortage of qualified professionals often offer competitive salaries to attract talent.
Consider these factors to enhance earning potential:
- Obtain specialized certifications
- Pursue advanced degrees
- Gain experience and tenure
- Network and build professional relationships
- Seek positions in high-demand areas



