How much does a Laboratory Assistant make?
A Laboratory Assistant plays a key role in scientific research and testing. They help scientists and researchers by preparing samples and maintaining lab equipment. The average yearly salary for a Laboratory Assistant is around $44,103. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of lab they work in.
The salary for Laboratory Assistants can range from $30,000 to $74,060 per year. Most Laboratory Assistants earn between $34,005 and $62,044 annually. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:
- 5.26% of Laboratory Assistants earn less than $30,000.
- 18.74% earn between $30,000 and $34,005.
- 27.52% earn between $34,005 and $38,011.
- 13.59% earn between $38,011 and $42,016.
- 9.46% earn between $42,016 and $46,022.
- 7.96% earn between $46,022 and $50,027.
- 4.51% earn between $50,027 and $54,033.
- 2.42% earn between $54,033 and $58,038.
- 3.77% earn between $58,038 and $62,044.
- 1.05% earn between $62,044 and $66,049.
- 0.73% earn more than $70,055.
What are the highest paying cities for a Laboratory Assistant?

-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $71,232
In San Jose, you can find many tech companies where you can work. The Silicon Valley area offers many opportunities to grow. Companies like Intel and Cisco provide a dynamic environment.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $68,951
Santa Rosa offers a quieter pace with a strong focus on agriculture. Working here means you can enjoy a slower lifestyle. Companies like Sonoma Pharmaceuticals provide a stable work environment.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $67,218
San Francisco is a bustling city with a lot of opportunities. The tech industry is booming here. You can find work with companies like Genentech and Biogen.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $64,141
Rochester is known for its medical research. Working here means you can be part of groundbreaking research. Companies like Bausch + Lomb and Eastman Kodak offer exciting opportunities.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $59,963
Sacramento is a growing city with a strong focus on government and education. Working here means you can be part of important research projects. Companies like Blue Shield of California offer a supportive environment.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $56,061
Buffalo offers a mix of industry and research. The city is known for its manufacturing and healthcare sectors. Companies like Abbott Laboratories and Roswell Park Cancer Institute provide diverse opportunities.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in Buffalo, NY
-
Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $52,395
Charlotte is a fast-growing city with a strong focus on finance and healthcare. Working here means you can be part of a thriving industry. Companies like Novant Health and Duke Energy offer a dynamic work environment.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in Charlotte, NC
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $52,284
Seattle is known for its tech industry and innovation. Working here means you can be part of a cutting-edge environment. Companies like Amazon and Boeing offer exciting opportunities.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $52,132
Los Angeles offers a vibrant and diverse work environment. The city is known for its entertainment industry and healthcare. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and UCLA Health offer a dynamic work experience.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $51,736
Bakersfield offers a smaller city feel with a strong focus on agriculture and energy. Working here means you can enjoy a quieter lifestyle. Companies like Chevron and Kern Medical Center offer stable opportunities.
Find Laboratory Assistant jobs in Bakersfield, CA
What are the best companies a Laboratory Assistant can work for?

-
Sutter Health
Average Salary: $72,861
Sutter Health offers rewarding Laboratory Assistant positions across Northern California. They provide comprehensive benefits and support career growth. Locations include Sacramento, San Francisco, and San Jose.
-
Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $65,030
Kaiser Permanente provides excellent opportunities for Laboratory Assistants in various states, including California, Colorado, and Washington. They focus on patient care and offer a supportive work environment.
-
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Average Salary: $63,720
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital offers competitive salaries for Laboratory Assistants in New York City. They provide a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional development.
-
Keck Medicine of USC
Average Salary: $61,432
Keck Medicine of USC offers Laboratory Assistant roles in California. They focus on research and patient care, providing a stimulating work environment.
-
PIH Health
Average Salary: $55,330
PIH Health provides Laboratory Assistant positions in Southern California. They offer a supportive work environment and opportunities for career advancement.
-
Olympic Medical Center
Average Salary: $54,754
Olympic Medical Center offers Laboratory Assistant roles in Washington State. They focus on community health and provide a collaborative work environment.
-
City of Hope
Average Salary: $54,598
City of Hope offers Laboratory Assistant positions in California. They focus on cancer research and treatment, providing a meaningful work environment.
-
Skagit Regional Health
Average Salary: $52,068
Skagit Regional Health offers Laboratory Assistant roles in Washington State. They focus on community health and provide a supportive work environment.
-
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Average Salary: $52,025
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers Laboratory Assistant positions in Minnesota. They focus on research and education, providing a dynamic work environment.
-
NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $51,837
NYU Langone Health offers Laboratory Assistant roles in New York City. They focus on research and patient care, providing a stimulating work environment.
How to earn more as a Laboratory Assistant?
A Laboratory Assistant can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific areas, they can enhance their skills and value in the workplace. This can lead to higher pay and better job opportunities. One key factor is gaining additional certifications. These can make a Laboratory Assistant more qualified and attractive to employers. Another way is to take on more responsibilities at work. This can lead to promotions and higher pay.
Expanding one's skill set is another effective strategy. Learning new techniques or using advanced equipment can set a Laboratory Assistant apart. Networking with colleagues and attending industry events can also open doors to higher-paying positions. Lastly, seeking out roles in higher-demand areas or industries can lead to better compensation. Each of these steps can help a Laboratory Assistant earn more and advance their career.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Laboratory Assistant:
- Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications to increase qualifications.
- Additional Responsibilities: Take on more tasks at work to show commitment and capability.
- Skill Expansion: Learn new techniques and use advanced equipment to enhance skills.
- Networking: Connect with colleagues and attend industry events to find new opportunities.
- Specialized Roles: Seek positions in high-demand areas or industries for better pay.



