How much does a Medical Laboratory Scientist make?
A Medical Laboratory Scientist plays a key role in the healthcare industry. They analyze body fluids and tissue samples to help diagnose and treat diseases. This important work comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for a Medical Laboratory Scientist is around $71,352. This means they earn a good income for their vital contributions.
The salary for Medical Laboratory Scientists can vary based on experience and location. The lowest 10% earn about $43,880, while the top 10% earn over $126,000. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:
- 10% earn less than $43,880
- 20% earn between $43,880 and $51,353
- 30% earn between $51,353 and $58,825
- 40% earn between $58,825 and $66,298
- 50% earn between $66,298 and $73,771
- 60% earn between $73,771 and $81,244
- 70% earn between $81,244 and $88,716
- 80% earn between $88,716 and $96,189
- 90% earn between $96,189 and $103,662
- 100% earn between $103,662 and $126,080
What are the highest paying cities for a Medical Laboratory Scientist?

-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $90,352
In Seattle, professionals thrive in cutting-edge labs. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and Seattle Children's Hospital offer great opportunities. The city's tech-savvy environment enhances career growth.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $87,215
Working in Washington, DC, means being part of a vibrant healthcare sector. Major employers like Johns Hopkins and MedStar Health provide excellent career paths. The city's political influence ensures steady demand for skilled lab scientists.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Washington, DC
-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $86,237
Portland offers a dynamic job market for lab scientists. Providence and Kaiser Permanente are leading employers. The city's focus on health and wellness creates a supportive work environment.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Portland, OR
-
Bend, OR
Average Salary: $84,036
In Bend, professionals enjoy a balanced lifestyle. St. Charles Health System and other local clinics offer rewarding positions. The outdoorsy culture complements a career in healthcare.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Bend, OR
-
Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $83,248
Philadelphia provides a rich job market with employers like Penn Medicine and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The city's historical charm adds to the professional experience.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Philadelphia, PA
-
Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $81,509
Anchorage offers a unique setting for lab scientists. Companies like Alaska Native Medical Center provide excellent opportunities. The city's natural beauty offers a refreshing backdrop to a rewarding career.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Anchorage, AK
-
Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $78,098
Baltimore's job market is strong with employers like Johns Hopkins and University of Maryland Medical Center. The city's vibrant culture enhances the professional experience.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Baltimore, MD
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $77,815
Minneapolis offers a thriving job market. Employers like Mayo Clinic and Allina Health provide excellent opportunities. The city's focus on health and wellness creates a supportive work environment.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
Providence, RI
Average Salary: $77,286
Providence offers a dynamic job market. Lifespan and Rhode Island Hospital are leading employers. The city's rich history adds to the professional experience.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Providence, RI
-
Yuma, AZ
Average Salary: $77,286
Yuma provides a warm and welcoming job market. Yuma Regional Medical Center and other local clinics offer rewarding positions. The city's sunny climate makes for a pleasant work environment.
Find Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Yuma, AZ
What are the best companies a Medical Laboratory Scientist can work for?

-
University Of Washington
Average Salary: $99,932
The University Of Washington offers rewarding Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs. They operate in Seattle, Washington. They focus on research and patient care, providing a dynamic work environment.
-
Seattle Children's
Average Salary: $91,491
Seattle Children's provides excellent opportunities for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They work in Seattle, Washington. They focus on pediatric care, offering a chance to make a difference in young lives.
-
Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $90,937
Kaiser Permanente offers competitive salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in multiple locations across the U.S. They focus on integrated healthcare, providing a stable and supportive work environment.
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Average Salary: $89,537
Oregon Health & Science University offers rewarding Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs. They operate in Portland, Oregon. They focus on research and education, providing a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.
-
Samaritan Health Services
Average Salary: $87,050
Samaritan Health Services offers good opportunities for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in multiple locations in Oregon. They focus on community care, providing a chance to serve local populations.
-
Global Technical Talent
Average Salary: $84,587
Global Technical Talent offers competitive salaries for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in multiple locations across the U.S. They focus on providing staffing solutions, offering flexibility and diverse work opportunities.
-
St. Charles Health System
Average Salary: $84,517
St. Charles Health System offers rewarding Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs. They operate in multiple locations in Oregon. They focus on community care, providing a supportive and collaborative work environment.
-
Emergency Physicians Professional Association
Average Salary: $83,770
Emergency Physicians Professional Association offers good opportunities for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in multiple locations across the U.S. They focus on emergency care, providing a fast-paced and challenging work environment.
-
MD Anderson Cancer Center
Average Salary: $83,548
MD Anderson Cancer Center offers rewarding Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs. They operate in Houston, Texas. They focus on cancer research and treatment, providing a chance to work in a leading medical institution.
-
Allina Health
Average Salary: $83,529
Allina Health offers good opportunities for Medical Laboratory Scientists. They operate in multiple locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They focus on integrated healthcare, providing a stable and supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Medical Laboratory Scientist?
A Medical Laboratory Scientist can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific areas, professionals can enhance their skills and market value. This leads to better job opportunities and higher salaries. One key factor is gaining specialized certifications. These credentials can open doors to higher-paying positions and more responsibilities.
Another important factor is gaining experience in high-demand areas. Working in specialties such as microbiology, hematology, or molecular diagnostics can lead to better pay. Employers often seek out candidates with expertise in these fields. Continuing education and staying updated with the latest technology also play a role. This ensures that a Medical Laboratory Scientist remains competitive in the job market. Networking with peers and attending professional conferences can lead to new opportunities. These events often provide insights into the latest trends and potential salary increases.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Medical Laboratory Scientist:
- Specialized Certifications: Obtain certifications in areas like clinical chemistry or blood banking.
- Experience in High-Demand Areas: Gain expertise in microbiology, hematology, or molecular diagnostics.
- Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest technology and techniques in the field.
- Networking: Connect with peers and attend professional conferences to learn about new opportunities.
- Advanced Degrees: Consider pursuing a master’s or doctorate to qualify for higher-level positions.