Position
Salary

How much does a Laboratory Scientist make?

The average salary for a Laboratory Scientist is $62,732 per year in the US.

A Laboratory Scientist plays a key role in many industries, from healthcare to environmental science. They conduct tests and experiments to gather important data. The average yearly salary for a Laboratory Scientist is $62,732. This means that, on average, they earn a decent amount each year.

The salary for Laboratory Scientists can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level positions may start around $42,440. As scientists gain more experience, they can earn more. The top earners can make up to $120,000 a year. This range shows that there is good potential for growth in this field.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Laboratory Scientist?

Baltimore, MD, offers the highest average salary for Laboratory Scientists at $89,516. This city provides excellent opportunities for those in the field. Lansing, MI, follows closely with an average salary of $73,863, making it another top choice for professionals. Laboratory Scientists in Lexington, KY, and Albuquerque, NM, can expect competitive salaries of $67,082 and $62,667, respectively. These cities also present strong job markets. Nashville, TN, Jackson, MS, and Denver, CO, offer average salaries ranging from $50,435 to $53,407, providing good options for those seeking a balance of cost of living and salary.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting Baltimore, MD with the highest at $89,516 and Denver, CO with the lowest at $50,435.
  1. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $89,516
    In Baltimore, professionals in scientific research enjoy a vibrant community. The city hosts major institutions like Johns Hopkins University, offering ample opportunities for collaboration and career growth. The local biotech scene is thriving, making it a great place for those in scientific roles.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Baltimore, MD


  2. Lansing, MI
    Average Salary: $73,863
    Lansing provides a supportive environment for those in scientific fields. The city is home to several research facilities and companies, including the Michigan State University Research and Development. This setting allows for meaningful work and professional development in a collaborative atmosphere.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Lansing, MI


  3. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $67,082
    Lexington offers a dynamic environment for scientific careers. The presence of the University of Kentucky and its research initiatives creates a rich landscape for professionals. The city's focus on education and research makes it an ideal place for those in scientific roles.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Lexington, KY


  4. Albuquerque, NM
    Average Salary: $62,667
    Albuquerque is a hub for scientific research, with institutions like Sandia National Laboratories. The city's commitment to innovation provides a stimulating environment for those in scientific careers. Professionals here benefit from a strong network of research opportunities and collaborations.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Albuquerque, NM


  5. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $53,407
    Nashville combines a vibrant culture with strong scientific opportunities. The city is home to several research institutions and companies, including Vanderbilt University. This setting offers a unique blend of professional growth and a lively community for those in scientific fields.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Nashville, TN


  6. Jackson, MS
    Average Salary: $52,869
    Jackson offers a supportive environment for scientific careers. The city's research institutions, such as the University of Mississippi Medical Center, provide ample opportunities for growth. Professionals here enjoy a community that values education and scientific advancement.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Jackson, MS


  7. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $50,435
    Denver provides a dynamic setting for scientific research. The city's numerous research facilities and companies, including the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, offer diverse opportunities. Professionals in Denver benefit from a strong network and a focus on innovation.
    Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Denver, CO

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

Clinical Management Consultants offers top-tier salaries for laboratory scientists, making it a prime choice for those seeking high pay. The State of Maryland and the State of Michigan also provide competitive wages, with both states offering well above average salaries. For those interested in research and academic settings, the University of Kentucky and TriCore Reference Laboratories present attractive opportunities with solid compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting Clinical Management Consultants with the highest at $98,326 and State of Mississippi with the lowest at $52,532.
  1. Clinical Management Consultants
    Average Salary: $98,326
    Clinical Management Consultants offers Laboratory Scientist jobs with a focus on providing management and consulting services to healthcare organizations. They operate nationwide, with a strong presence in major cities.


  2. State of Maryland
    Average Salary: $89,014
    The State of Maryland provides Laboratory Scientist jobs in various state-run facilities. They offer a range of opportunities in cities like Baltimore and Frederick, focusing on public health and research.


  3. State of Michigan
    Average Salary: $74,350
    The State of Michigan offers Laboratory Scientist jobs in state-operated labs. They have positions across the state, including in Detroit and Lansing, emphasizing environmental and public health testing.


  4. University of Kentucky
    Average Salary: $66,713
    The University of Kentucky provides Laboratory Scientist jobs in academic research settings. They are located in Lexington, offering roles that focus on cutting-edge research and teaching.


  5. TriCore Reference Laboratories
    Average Salary: $63,473
    TriCore Reference Laboratories offers Laboratory Scientist jobs in a variety of locations, including Albuquerque. They focus on providing comprehensive laboratory services to healthcare providers.


  6. Alverno Clinical Laboratories
    Average Salary: $57,515
    Alverno Clinical Laboratories provides Laboratory Scientist jobs in Chicago. They offer roles that focus on clinical testing and support for healthcare facilities.


  7. West Virginia
    Average Salary: $56,714
    The State of West Virginia offers Laboratory Scientist jobs in state-run facilities. They have positions across the state, including in Charleston, focusing on public health and environmental testing.


  8. UnityPoint Health
    Average Salary: $55,891
    UnityPoint Health provides Laboratory Scientist jobs in multiple locations, including Des Moines. They focus on delivering high-quality healthcare services to patients.


  9. State of Tennessee
    Average Salary: $53,775
    The State of Tennessee offers Laboratory Scientist jobs in state-operated labs. They have positions across the state, including in Nashville, emphasizing public health and environmental testing.


  10. State of Mississippi
    Average Salary: $52,532
    The State of Mississippi provides Laboratory Scientist jobs in state-run facilities. They offer roles in cities like Jackson, focusing on public health and research.

How to earn more as a Laboratory Scientist?

Laboratory scientists have the chance to earn more by taking certain steps. They can increase their earnings by gaining more education and certifications. This can lead to higher-paying positions. Working in a specialized area can also boost income. For example, scientists who work in pharmaceuticals or biotechnology often earn more than those in other fields.

Networking and gaining experience can also lead to higher pay. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can open doors to better job opportunities. Gaining experience in different areas of the lab can make a scientist more valuable. This can lead to promotions and higher salaries. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Education and Certifications: Advanced degrees and specialized certifications can lead to higher-paying jobs.
  • Specialization: Focusing on a niche area can make a scientist more attractive to employers.
  • Networking: Building connections in the industry can lead to job opportunities and salary increases.
  • Experience: Gaining experience in various lab roles can increase job prospects and earning potential.
  • Location: Working in areas with a high demand for lab scientists can lead to higher salaries.

Currently 81 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
81 Job Openings