Laboratory Scientist Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Laboratory Scientist make?

The average salary for a Laboratory Scientist is $67,187 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Laboratory Scientist positions, showing an average salary of $67,187 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Laboratory Scientist positions, showing an average salary of $67,187 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Laboratory Scientist positions, showing an average salary of $67,187 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Laboratory Scientist positions, showing an average salary of $67,187 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Laboratory scientists play a vital role in many industries, from healthcare to environmental science. On average, laboratory scientists earn about $67,187 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, education, and specific job duties. Many new professionals enter the field with salaries closer to $35,864, while seasoned scientists can earn up to $140,716 annually.

Several factors influence a laboratory scientist's salary. These include the level of education, such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. Higher degrees often lead to higher pay. Additionally, the industry in which the scientist works can make a difference. For instance, those in pharmaceuticals or biotechnology may earn more compared to those in academic research. Experience also plays a role. Entry-level positions start at lower pay, but salaries increase with years of experience and additional skills.

What are the highest paying cities for a Laboratory Scientist?

Job seekers looking for high salaries in laboratory science can find great opportunities in various cities. Lansing, MI, leads with an average salary of about $74,303. This competitive pay offers a promising chance for those in the field. Other notable cities include Lexington, KY, and Albuquerque, NM, both offering above-average wages that make them attractive locations for laboratory scientists.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting Lansing, MI with the highest at $74,303 and Fargo, ND with the lowest at $47,518.

Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $74,303
In Lansing, a Laboratory Scientist can find work with companies like McLaren Health Care. The job involves testing samples and reporting findings. This city offers a mix of urban and natural settings.
Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Lansing, MI
Lexington, KY
Average Salary: $66,050
Lexington is home to many research facilities where a scientist can make important discoveries. Prominent employers include UK HealthCare. The role often involves analyzing data and improving health outcomes.
Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Lexington, KY
Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $62,918
Albuquerque offers a dynamic environment for scientists, with companies like Lovelace Health System. The work includes handling lab equipment and ensuring accurate test results. The city’s diverse culture enhances the experience.
Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Albuquerque, NM
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $53,662
Denver provides many opportunities for scientific research with employers like Denver Health Medical Center. A scientist’s role here often involves developing new testing methods. The city’s outdoor lifestyle complements a busy work schedule.
Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Denver, CO
Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $53,054
Nashville offers a blend of urban life and a growing tech scene for scientists. Vanderbilt University Medical Center is a notable employer. The job requires detailed analysis and collaboration with other professionals.
Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Nashville, TN
Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $47,518
In Fargo, scientists can find rewarding roles at Sanford Health. The job focuses on accurate testing and reporting. The city’s community feel provides a supportive work environment.
Find Laboratory Scientist jobs in Fargo, ND

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

Laboratory scientists can find great opportunities with top-paying employers. The State of Michigan offers an average salary of $72,601, making it a leading choice. Other notable companies include the University of Kentucky and the University of Colorado, with average salaries of $65,467 and $55,343, respectively. Quest Diagnostics also provides a competitive salary of $50,450 for laboratory scientists.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Laboratory Scientist jobs, highlighting State of Michigan with the highest at $72,601 and Quest Diagnostics with the lowest at $50,450.

State of Michigan
Average Salary: $72,601
The State of Michigan offers rewarding Laboratory Scientist jobs with a strong focus on public health. Opportunities span across various locations in Michigan, including Lansing, Detroit, and Ann Arbor, providing a diverse range of experiences.
University of Kentucky
Average Salary: $65,467
The University of Kentucky provides Laboratory Scientist positions that focus on research and academic excellence. This institution offers positions in Lexington, Kentucky, where scientists can contribute to groundbreaking research and teaching.
University of Colorado
Average Salary: $55,343
At the University of Colorado, Laboratory Scientists engage in cutting-edge research and academic projects. Positions are available in Boulder and Denver, offering a mix of research and teaching responsibilities.
Quest Diagnostics
Average Salary: $50,450
Quest Diagnostics offers Laboratory Scientist roles focused on clinical analysis and diagnostics. They operate across multiple locations nationwide, providing valuable experience in a high-impact medical environment.

How to earn more as a Laboratory Scientist?

Becoming a Laboratory Scientist offers many opportunities to enhance earning potential. Focusing on certain areas can make a significant difference in your salary. One way is by gaining specialized certifications that prove expertise in a specific area. Certifications often open doors to higher-paying positions. Another way is to seek out roles in high-demand industries, such as pharmaceuticals or biotech. These fields typically offer competitive salaries to attract top talent.

Continuing education also plays a crucial role. Many employers value candidates who invest in furthering their education. This could mean pursuing a master's degree or attending workshops and seminars. Additionally, gaining experience in multiple areas of the lab can make a scientist more versatile. This versatility often leads to higher pay. Finally, networking within the industry can uncover higher-paying job opportunities. Connecting with others in the field can lead to job leads and salary negotiations.

Considering these factors can lead to greater financial rewards as a Laboratory Scientist. Below are five key factors to consider:

Gain specialized certifications
Seek positions in high-demand industries
Pursue further education
Gain experience in multiple lab areas
Network within the industry

Laboratory Scientist Salaries

How much does a Laboratory Scientist make?

What are the highest paying cities for a Laboratory Scientist?

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

How to earn more as a Laboratory Scientist?

Currently 67 Laboratory Scientist job openings, nationwide.

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

Win at hiring.