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How much does a Laboratory Scientist make?

The average salary for a Laboratory Scientist is $63,920 per year in the US.

Becoming a laboratory scientist offers a rewarding career with a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a laboratory scientist is $63,920. This means most scientists earn somewhere around this amount each year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, education, and the specific industry.

A breakdown of the salary distribution shows that many scientists fall within a certain range. For instance, about 23.13% of scientists earn between $42,440 and $49,869 each year. Another 17.79% earn between $49,869 and $57,298. These figures provide a clear picture of what to expect in terms of earnings. The highest earners, making over $116,731 annually, make up a smaller percentage of the workforce. This shows that while most earn a solid income, a few top earners make significantly more.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Laboratory Scientist?

Baltimore, MD, offers some of the highest salaries for laboratory scientists. This city provides a competitive salary of around $87,932 per year. Job seekers in this field may find attractive opportunities here. Lansing, MI, ranks close behind, with an average salary of $74,000 annually. This city also presents good potential for those in the laboratory sciences. Lexington, KY, offers a solid salary of $67,000 per year for these professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting Baltimore, MD with the highest at $87,932 and Fargo, ND with the lowest at $47,518.
  1. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $87,932
    In Baltimore, scientists can find work at renowned research institutions like Johns Hopkins University. The city offers a mix of cutting-edge research and a vibrant community. Opportunities in biotechnology and health sciences are plentiful.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Baltimore, MD


  2. Lansing, MI
    Average Salary: $73,997
    Lansing boasts a range of opportunities in research and development, with companies like General Motors focusing on innovation. The city supports a collaborative work environment, where scientists can contribute to advancements in various fields.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Lansing, MI


  3. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $67,084
    Lexington is home to the University of Kentucky, a hub for scientific research and innovation. The city’s culture values academic and scientific excellence, offering numerous opportunities for growth and collaboration.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Lexington, KY


  4. Albuquerque, NM
    Average Salary: $62,667
    In Albuquerque, scientists can engage with Sandia National Laboratories and the University of New Mexico. The city’s unique environment fosters innovation, providing a chance to work on cutting-edge projects.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Albuquerque, NM


  5. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $53,460
    Nashville offers a growing number of opportunities in medical research and pharmaceuticals. Companies like Vanderbilt University Medical Center create a dynamic work environment, focusing on health and scientific advancements.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Nashville, TN


  6. Jackson, MS
    Average Salary: $52,869
    Jackson provides a supportive atmosphere for scientific research, with institutions such as the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The city’s focus on healthcare innovation offers many avenues for professionals to contribute significantly.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Jackson, MS


  7. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $51,268
    Denver is known for its vibrant scientific community and outdoor lifestyle. Companies like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory offer exciting opportunities for those interested in environmental science and technology.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Denver, CO


  8. Fargo, ND
    Average Salary: $47,518
    Fargo supports a growing field of agricultural and environmental research. Institutions like North Dakota State University provide ample opportunities for scientists to engage in meaningful work and research.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Fargo, ND

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

Laboratory scientists can find top-paying positions at the State of Michigan, where the average salary reaches $76,180. This government role offers stability and competitive compensation. Another promising employer is TriCore Reference Laboratories, where the average salary is $68,098, reflecting a solid income for skilled professionals. Also worth considering is the University of Kentucky, offering an average salary of $66,779. This can provide both a rewarding salary and opportunities for career growth. These companies show that with the right qualifications, laboratory scientists can secure attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting State of Michigan with the highest at $76,180 and Quest Diagnostics with the lowest at $43,945.
  1. State of Michigan
    Average Salary: $76,180
    The State of Michigan offers rewarding Laboratory Scientist jobs across various locations. Employees work in state-of-the-art labs, contributing to public health and safety. Key locations include Lansing, Detroit, and Ann Arbor.


  2. TriCore Reference Laboratories
    Average Salary: $68,098
    TriCore Reference Laboratories provides competitive salaries for Laboratory Scientists. They operate in New Mexico and offer a dynamic work environment. Locations include Albuquerque and Farmington.


  3. University of Kentucky
    Average Salary: $66,779
    The University of Kentucky employs skilled Laboratory Scientists in Lexington. They focus on cutting-edge research and teaching. Lexington is a vibrant city with a supportive work environment.


  4. West Virginia
    Average Salary: $56,229
    West Virginia offers Laboratory Scientist positions with a good salary. Locations include Charleston and Morgantown. Employees work in public health labs, making a real impact on the community.


  5. Alverno Clinical Laboratories
    Average Salary: $50,867
    Alverno Clinical Laboratories provides Laboratory Scientist jobs with a solid salary. They operate in Illinois and Missouri. Their labs in Springfield and St. Louis offer a collaborative and growing environment.


  6. Quest Diagnostics
    Average Salary: $43,945
    Quest Diagnostics is a leader in diagnostic information services. They offer Laboratory Scientist jobs in various locations across the U.S. The company emphasizes innovation and patient care.

How to earn more as a Laboratory Scientist?

Laboratory scientists often focus on the analysis of biological and chemical samples. They work in many fields, from healthcare to environmental science. If someone in this role seeks to earn more, they can take several steps. These steps can help increase knowledge, skills, and value in the job market. Increasing value often leads to higher pay.

Here are five ways a laboratory scientist can earn more:

  1. Get more education: Higher degrees can open up better job opportunities. A master's or a doctorate can lead to roles with higher pay.
  2. Gain specialized certifications: Certifications in areas like microbiology or clinical chemistry can make a scientist more attractive to employers. These certifications show expertise in a specific field.
  3. Accumulate work experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Working in various labs or projects can build a strong resume. This experience makes a candidate more valuable.
  4. Learn new technologies: Staying current with the latest lab tools and techniques can increase a scientist's skills. This knowledge can make them more valuable to employers.
  5. Network within the industry: Building relationships with other professionals can lead to better job opportunities. Networking can also lead to learning about higher-paying jobs.

Currently 51 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
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Laboratory Scientist
51 Job Openings