How much does a Research Technician make?
A Research Technician works in laboratories, conducting tests and experiments. They help scientists and researchers gather data and analyze results. The salary for a Research Technician can vary based on experience, location, and industry. On average, they make about $45,172 per year. This is a solid wage for a position that requires some specialized knowledge and skills.
Many factors affect a Research Technician’s salary. For example, those with more experience typically earn more. Similarly, technicians in high-demand industries or locations may see higher salaries. To see the distribution of salaries, consider these numbers: 10% of Research Technicians earn less than $30,000, while 10% earn more than $75,000. Most technicians fall in the middle, earning between $38,309 and $63,236.
What are the highest paying cities for a Research Technician?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $59,823
In Seattle, you can find a variety of tech companies offering roles for skilled technicians. Major employers like Amazon and Microsoft often have openings. The vibrant tech scene provides many opportunities for career growth.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $56,544
Buffalo boasts a robust research environment with significant contributions from healthcare and education. Working here, you will support important studies at institutions like the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $53,165
Boulder offers a mix of high-tech startups and established research institutions. Companies like Ball Aerospace and the University of Colorado provide a dynamic setting for lab work and innovative research.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $52,386
In Washington, DC, you can work with leading research organizations in science and policy. Companies like the National Institutes of Health and various think tanks present a unique chance to contribute to national research.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $50,864
Los Angeles is home to many entertainment industry companies with research arms. Working here, you may collaborate with entertainment giants like Disney and Warner Bros. on projects that require technical expertise.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $50,359
San Diego's biotech scene is thriving, with companies like Illumina and biotech startups. The city offers a stimulating environment with a focus on medical and environmental research.
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Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $50,299
Louisville has a growing research community with opportunities at the University of Louisville and local hospitals. The city's supportive environment helps technicians advance their careers in a variety of fields.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $49,708
Denver offers a combination of outdoor lifestyle and research opportunities. The presence of organizations like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory provides exciting roles for those passionate about sustainable energy.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $49,471
San Antonio is a city with a strong focus on health and technology research. The presence of organizations like the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center offers engaging roles for technicians in biomedical research.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $49,456
Chicago is a hub for research in various fields, from healthcare to engineering. Working here, you can find roles at major institutions like the University of Chicago and Northwestern University.
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What are the best companies a Research Technician can work for?

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Los Alamos National Laboratory
Average Salary: $82,619
Los Alamos National Laboratory is a leader in scientific research. They hire Research Technicians to help with experiments in various fields. The lab is in Los Alamos, New Mexico.
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Memorial Sloan Kettering
Average Salary: $65,082
Memorial Sloan Kettering focuses on cancer research. They look for Research Technicians to assist in their labs. The hospital is in New York City.
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Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Average Salary: $64,579
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is a top place for cancer research. They seek Research Technicians to aid in their studies. This center is in Seattle, Washington.
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Children's National Hospital
Average Salary: $60,492
Children's National Hospital is a leading pediatric center. They employ Research Technicians to support their medical research. The hospital is in Washington, D.C.
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Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Average Salary: $56,058
Albert Einstein College of Medicine is well-known for its medical research. They hire Research Technicians to help with their studies. The college is in the Bronx, New York.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $55,176
NYU Langone Health is a major medical center. They look for Research Technicians to assist in their labs. NYU Langone Health is in New York City.
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University of Louisville
Average Salary: $54,421
The University of Louisville is a research university. They hire Research Technicians to help with their studies. The university is in Louisville, Kentucky.
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Seattle Children's
Average Salary: $51,719
Seattle Children's is a renowned pediatric hospital. They need Research Technicians to aid in their research. This hospital is in Seattle, Washington.
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Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Average Salary: $51,291
Howard Hughes Medical Institute funds research in biology. They hire Research Technicians to support their work. They are located in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
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Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Average Salary: $50,512
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is a leading pediatric hospital. They employ Research Technicians to help with their studies. The hospital is in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
How to earn more as a Research Technician?
Research Technicians can find various opportunities to increase their earnings. A well-rounded skill set and a proactive approach can lead to greater compensation. Gaining expertise in specialized areas of research can open up higher-paying positions. Technicians should stay informed about new research techniques and technologies to remain competitive.
Pursuing advanced certifications and additional training can also boost earning potential. Networking with professionals in the field can lead to better job offers and opportunities for advancement. Technicians who take on leadership roles or project management responsibilities may see significant salary increases. Seeking positions in high-demand research areas can also lead to higher pay.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Develop specialized skills
- Get advanced certifications
- Network with industry professionals
- Take on leadership roles
- Focus on high-demand research areas



