Position
Salary

How much does a Laboratory Scientist make?

The average salary for a Laboratory Scientist is $62,415 per year in the US.

Laboratory scientists work in labs to test samples and conduct experiments. They play an important role in many fields, from medicine to environmental science. The salary for this job can vary. For those just starting, the pay might be lower. But as they gain experience, they can earn more. The average yearly salary for a laboratory scientist is about $62,415. This means most scientists earn somewhere around this amount each year.


Some laboratory scientists earn more depending on their experience and where they work. Here are some average salaries based on experience:

  • Entry-level: $42,440
  • Mid-career: $64,335
  • Senior-level: $115,422
These numbers show that with more experience, a laboratory scientist can earn significantly more. This makes the job very rewarding for those who stay in the field and keep learning.

View Laboratory Scientist jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Laboratory Scientist?

Baltimore, MD, offers high salaries for Laboratory Scientists, with an average annual income of about $87,510. In Lansing, MI, professionals earn a strong salary of around $73,916. Lexington, KY, follows with an average salary of $67,082 for this role. Consider Albuquerque, NM, for Laboratory Scientist positions that pay about $62,667 annually. Nashville, TN, offers an average salary of $53,142, making it another attractive option. Job seekers might find competitive salaries in Jackson, MS, and Denver, CO, as well, with average earnings around $52,869 and $51,429, respectively.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting Baltimore, MD with the highest at $87,510 and Denver, CO with the lowest at $51,429.
  1. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $87,510
    In Baltimore, a scientific professional may find employment with leading medical research institutions. The city boasts a strong job market with top employers including Johns Hopkins Medicine. Workers enjoy a collaborative environment that values innovation.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Baltimore, MD


  2. Lansing, MI
    Average Salary: $73,916
    Lansing offers a robust job market with numerous opportunities in scientific research and development. Companies such as Sparrow Hospital provide a dynamic work setting. Employees benefit from a supportive community that encourages professional growth.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Lansing, MI


  3. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $67,082
    Lexington provides a thriving atmosphere for scientific careers. The city is home to major employers like the University of Kentucky. Professionals here enjoy a rich culture that fosters scientific advancement and collaboration.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Lexington, KY


  4. Albuquerque, NM
    Average Salary: $62,667
    Albuquerque is a great place for scientific professionals to advance their careers. Sandia National Laboratories offers exciting job opportunities. The city supports a strong network of research institutions and provides a stimulating work environment.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Albuquerque, NM


  5. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $53,142
    Nashville has a growing demand for skilled scientific professionals. The city's research facilities, including Vanderbilt University, offer dynamic career paths. Workers benefit from a vibrant community that values innovation and excellence.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Nashville, TN


  6. Jackson, MS
    Average Salary: $52,869
    Jackson offers promising career opportunities for scientific professionals. Institutions like the University of Mississippi Medical Center provide excellent work environments. The city's supportive atmosphere encourages professional development and success.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Jackson, MS


  7. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $51,429
    Denver provides a rich landscape for scientific careers. Companies such as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory offer exciting opportunities. The city’s innovative spirit and strong research community make it an ideal place for professionals to thrive.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Denver, CO

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

Some of the top-paying companies for laboratory scientists include the State of Michigan and the University of Kentucky. At the State of Michigan, laboratory scientists can expect an average salary of around $75,205. Meanwhile, the University of Kentucky offers an average salary of about $66,441. These organizations provide competitive compensation packages that reflect the importance of their work. Other notable companies include TriCore Reference Laboratories, West Virginia, and Alverno Clinical Laboratories. TriCore offers an average salary of roughly $64,148, West Virginia provides around $56,316, and Alverno offers about $55,675. These employers recognize the value that skilled laboratory scientists bring to their teams.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting State of Michigan with the highest at $75,205 and Quest Diagnostics with the lowest at $43,367.
  1. State of Michigan
    Average Salary: $75,205
    The State of Michigan offers competitive salaries for Laboratory Scientists. They provide various opportunities across the state, focusing on public health, research, and safety. Locations include Lansing and other state-funded facilities.


  2. University of Kentucky
    Average Salary: $66,441
    The University of Kentucky offers rewarding positions for Laboratory Scientists. They focus on academic research and clinical settings, with locations in Lexington and other university campuses.


  3. TriCore Reference Laboratories
    Average Salary: $64,148
    TriCore Reference Laboratories provides a stable environment for Laboratory Scientists. They focus on clinical testing and have multiple locations in New Mexico, including Albuquerque.


  4. West Virginia
    Average Salary: $56,316
    The state of West Virginia offers positions for Laboratory Scientists, focusing on public health and research. They have locations throughout the state, including Charleston.


  5. Alverno Clinical Laboratories
    Average Salary: $55,675
    Alverno Clinical Laboratories offers a supportive environment for Laboratory Scientists. They conduct a variety of clinical tests and are located in Illinois, including Chicago.


  6. UnityPoint Health
    Average Salary: $54,727
    UnityPoint Health provides a collaborative work environment for Laboratory Scientists. They offer a range of clinical services in Iowa and Illinois, including Des Moines.


  7. State of Tennessee
    Average Salary: $53,047
    The State of Tennessee offers opportunities for Laboratory Scientists in public health and research. They operate in multiple locations, including Nashville.


  8. Quest Diagnostics
    Average Salary: $43,367
    Quest Diagnostics offers positions for Laboratory Scientists with a focus on clinical testing. They have a nationwide presence, including major cities like Los Angeles and New York.

How to earn more as a Laboratory Scientist?

Laboratory scientists have many ways to increase their earnings. They can explore various avenues that not only boost their salary but also enrich their career experience. Each step can make a significant difference over time.

Here are five key factors to consider:

  1. Education and Certifications: Gaining advanced degrees or specialized certifications can lead to higher paying positions.
  2. Experience: More experience often means a higher salary. Working in various environments can also enhance skills.
  3. Networking: Building a professional network can open doors to better job opportunities.
  4. Skills Development: Staying updated with new technologies and techniques can make a scientist more valuable.
  5. Location: Some areas offer higher salaries based on demand and cost of living.

Currently 54 Laboratory Scientist job openings, nationwide.

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

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