How much does a Laboratory Assistant make?
The role of a laboratory assistant is crucial in scientific research and testing. They work in labs, helping scientists with experiments and data collection. The salary for this job can vary based on experience and the type of lab. On average, a laboratory assistant earns about $44,550 a year.
If you have more experience, you might earn more. The data shows that those in the top 10% can earn up to $73,250. Most laboratory assistants fall between $30,000 and $69,000. This range depends on where you work and the specific tasks you handle. For instance, working in a pharmaceutical lab may pay more than a school lab. It is a good job for those interested in science and research, with a fair salary and many opportunities for growth.
What are the highest paying cities for a Laboratory Assistant?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $70,412
Working in San Jose offers many opportunities in tech companies. Many labs in this area focus on innovation. Companies like Cisco Systems provide many openings.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $69,007
Santa Rosa is a great place for laboratory work. The city has a strong healthcare sector. Laboratories here often support research and development. Local biotech firms offer many job openings.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $68,548
San Francisco is known for its tech and biotech industries. Laboratories in this city often work on cutting-edge projects. Companies like Genentech provide many job opportunities.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $64,141
Rochester is home to world-renowned institutions. Many laboratories here focus on medical research. Companies like F. Hoffmann-La Roche offer many openings for skilled professionals.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $56,781
Buffalo offers a mix of industrial and academic opportunities. Many labs work on developing new technologies. Companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield provide job openings.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $52,585
Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and technology. Laboratories here often work on exciting projects. Companies like SpaceX offer many job opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $52,260
Seattle is known for its tech giants. Many laboratories focus on software and hardware development. Companies like Amazon offer many openings.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $52,122
Riverside has a growing tech and biotech sector. Many laboratories work on innovative projects. Companies like Pfizer provide many job opportunities.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $52,113
Bakersfield is known for its oil industry and agriculture. Laboratories here focus on environmental and agricultural research. Local farms and companies offer job openings.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $51,897
Charlotte is a financial hub with growing tech opportunities. Many laboratories focus on financial and healthcare research. Companies like Bank of America offer many job openings.
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What are the best companies a Laboratory Assistant can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $72,310
Sutter Health offers rewarding opportunities for Laboratory Assistants. They work in many locations across California. These roles involve supporting lab technicians, maintaining equipment, and ensuring accuracy in test results. They operate in cities like Sacramento, San Francisco, and Modesto.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $65,072
Kaiser Permanente provides a stable environment for Laboratory Assistants. They work in locations throughout California, Oregon, and Washington. Duties include handling samples, setting up tests, and assisting in data collection. Their facilities are in cities such as Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle.
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NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Average Salary: $64,533
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital offers competitive pay for Laboratory Assistants. They work in various locations in New York City. Tasks include organizing samples, calibrating instruments, and preparing reports. Their campuses are in Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx.
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Keck Medicine of USC
Average Salary: $61,432
Keck Medicine of USC provides quality jobs for Laboratory Assistants. They work in Los Angeles County. Duties include collecting specimens, maintaining lab cleanliness, and assisting with tests. Their locations are in Los Angeles and Arcadia.
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Olympic Medical Center
Average Salary: $55,738
Olympic Medical Center offers good opportunities for Laboratory Assistants. They work in Port Angeles, Washington. Tasks involve preparing samples, supporting lab operations, and ensuring safety protocols. Their facilities are in the Olympic Peninsula.
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PIH Health
Average Salary: $55,147
PIH Health provides a supportive environment for Laboratory Assistants. They work in locations across Southern California. Duties include sample handling, equipment maintenance, and aiding in test procedures. Their sites are in cities like Whittier and Downey.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $52,555
NYU Langone Health offers dynamic roles for Laboratory Assistants. They work in New York City and Mineola, New York. Tasks include assisting with experiments, organizing data, and ensuring lab standards. Their facilities are in Manhattan and Long Island.
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Skagit Regional Health
Average Salary: $52,196
Skagit Regional Health provides a community-focused role for Laboratory Assistants. They work in Mount Vernon, Washington. Duties include preparing samples, maintaining lab equipment, and supporting test processes. Their location is in the Skagit Valley.
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Minnesota State University, Mankato
Average Salary: $51,930
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers educational roles for Laboratory Assistants. They work in Mankato, Minnesota. Duties include assisting with academic labs, maintaining instruments, and supporting student learning. Their campus is in southern Minnesota.
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Emanate Health
Average Salary: $51,111
Emanate Health provides quality roles for Laboratory Assistants. They work in Southern California. Duties include sample handling, equipment maintenance, and assisting with lab tests. Their locations are in cities like Glendora and La Canada Flintridge.
How to earn more as a Laboratory Assistant?
Looking to boost your pay as a Laboratory Assistant? Consider these steps to increase your earnings. First, focus on gaining more skills. This can lead to higher-paying positions. Attend workshops or take online courses to learn new techniques. Certification in specialized areas can also open better opportunities.
Experience matters. Seek roles that offer more responsibility. Over time, this will help you build a strong resume. Take on leadership roles in projects or teams. Aim for roles that allow you to mentor others. This shows dedication and can lead to promotions. Networking within the industry can also uncover higher-paying jobs. Attend conferences and join professional groups to meet others in the field.
Here are key factors to consider:
- Get more skills and certifications.
- Gain experience and take on leadership roles.
- Network with others in the industry.
- Consider roles with more responsibilities.
- Seek out mentorship opportunities.



