How much does a Clinical Laboratory Scientist make?
A Clinical Laboratory Scientist plays a key role in the healthcare industry. They analyze body fluids and tissues to help diagnose and treat diseases. This job is both challenging and rewarding. The average yearly salary for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist is around $98,165. This means they earn a good living and contribute to saving lives.
The salary for Clinical Laboratory Scientists can vary based on experience and location. Here are some figures to consider:
- The lowest 10% earn about $50,850.
- The next 20% earn between $61,073 and $81,518.
- The middle 20% earn between $81,518 and $101,964.
- The next 20% earn between $101,964 and $122,409.
- The top 10% earn over $142,855.
What are the highest paying cities for a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $165,145
In San Jose, professionals thrive in a tech-driven environment. Companies like Stanford Health Care and Kaiser Permanente offer dynamic roles. The city's vibrant culture makes it an exciting place to work.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $146,187
Salinas provides a close-knit community feel. Local hospitals like Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System value skilled lab scientists. The area's agricultural focus adds a unique dimension to healthcare roles.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $129,739
Chico offers a relaxed lifestyle with a strong sense of community. Butte Memorial Hospital and Enloe Medical Center provide excellent opportunities. The city's proximity to nature enhances work-life balance.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $123,540
San Francisco is a hub for innovation and healthcare. UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente are prominent employers. The city's diverse population enriches the work experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $121,875
Los Angeles offers a bustling environment with numerous opportunities. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and UCLA Health are top employers. The city's diverse culture makes it a vibrant place to work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $121,446
San Diego provides a perfect blend of beach life and professional growth. Scripps Health and Rady Children's Hospital are leading employers. The city's vibrant atmosphere is ideal for career development.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $117,074
Bakersfield offers a growing job market with a strong community. Kern Medical and Adventist Health are key employers. The city's affordable living costs make it an attractive option.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $116,972
Modesto offers a friendly community with a strong healthcare sector. Doctors Medical Center and Memorial Medical Center provide excellent opportunities. The city's family-friendly environment enhances work-life balance.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $84,929
Buffalo offers a rich cultural experience with a strong healthcare network. Kaleida Health and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center are prominent employers. The city's affordable living makes it a great place to work.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $74,141
Houston is a major healthcare hub with numerous opportunities. Texas Children's Hospital and MD Anderson Cancer Center are top employers. The city's diverse population enriches the work experience.
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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: $155,755
El Camino Health offers rewarding Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Mountain View and Los Gatos. They focus on providing top-notch patient care. The company values teamwork and professional growth.
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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $141,411
Sutter Health provides excellent Clinical Laboratory Scientist positions in Northern California. They emphasize innovation and quality care. Locations include Sacramento, San Francisco, and more.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $133,751
Kaiser Permanente offers competitive Clinical Laboratory Scientist salaries in various locations across California. They focus on integrated healthcare. They have facilities in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Oakland.
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Sharp HealthCare
Average Salary: $131,381
Sharp HealthCare provides Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs with a strong focus on patient care. They operate in San Diego and offer a supportive work environment. They value teamwork and professional development.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $127,856
UCLA Health offers Clinical Laboratory Scientist positions with a focus on research and education. They are located in Los Angeles. They provide a dynamic work environment and opportunities for growth.
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UC Irvine Health
Average Salary: $125,795
UC Irvine Health provides Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs with a focus on innovation and excellence. They are located in Orange County. They offer a collaborative work environment and professional development opportunities.
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PIH Health
Average Salary: $121,088
PIH Health offers Clinical Laboratory Scientist positions with a focus on patient care. They operate in Los Angeles and Whittier. They value teamwork and professional growth.
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City of Hope
Average Salary: $115,107
City of Hope provides Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs with a focus on cancer research and treatment. They are located in Duarte. They offer a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development.
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Emanate Health
Average Salary: $114,778
Emanate Health offers Clinical Laboratory Scientist positions with a focus on community care. They operate in Los Angeles and San Gabriel. They value teamwork and professional growth.
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Tenet Healthcare
Average Salary: $105,692
Tenet Healthcare provides Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs with a focus on patient care. They operate in various locations across California. They offer a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development.
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 also plays a crucial role in earning potential. Working in high-demand areas or gaining experience in multiple specialties can make a Clinical Laboratory Scientist more valuable to employers. Additionally, seeking out positions in regions with higher costs of living can result in higher pay. Networking and staying informed about industry trends can also lead to better job opportunities and salary increases. Finally, continuously improving skills and staying current with technological advancements in the field can enhance job performance and earning potential.
Consider these factors to maximize your earnings as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist:
- Obtain specialized certifications
- Pursue advanced degrees
- Gain experience in high-demand areas
- Seek positions in regions with higher costs of living
- Stay informed about industry trends