Lab Assistant Salary
There are quite a number of different responsibilities technicians in a lab must perform. Often, they rely upon lab assistants to provide critical support. For the assistant, such a need aids in gaining access to competitive salaries.
Salary Breakdown
A lab assistant salary will be based on the complexities of the work being performed and how much is required of the assistant. The jobs are broken down into categories of Laboratory Assistant I and II.
A Laboratory Assistant I earns an average of $34,796 in the United States. The lower end of the payscale is around $26,896 and the higher end is in the range of $44,043.
A Laboratory Assistant II earns an average of $39,336 in the United States. The low end of the job would pay about $31,239 and the higher end work could pay up to $79,000.
2026 Salary Overview
The median annual wage for laboratory assistants was $37,066 in May 2025. This represents the middle point where half of workers earned more and half earned less. Actual salaries can vary significantly based on location, experience, education, and the specific type of laboratory setting.
Education and Training Requirements
Typical Entry-Level Education: Associate's degree
Work Experience: None required
On-the-job Training: Moderate-term on-the-job training
Most laboratory assistants complete an associate degree program in laboratory science or a related field. Some positions may require completion of a certificate program in laboratory technology. Many employers also provide specialized training for specific laboratory equipment and procedures.
Job Outlook (2026-2036)
Employment of laboratory assistants is projected to grow 8 percent from 2025 to 2035, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population requiring more medical tests and increased demand for laboratory services.
Job opportunities in laboratory research are never likely to be limited due to the fact very few professionals are capable of filling openings. About 19,200 openings for laboratory assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
As of 2025, there were approximately 175,300 jobs in this occupation across the United States.
Work Environment
Laboratory assistants work in various settings including hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, research facilities, and university laboratories. Most work full time in climate-controlled environments with specialized equipment and safety protocols.
The work environment requires strict adherence to safety procedures when handling chemicals, biological specimens, and laboratory equipment. Laboratory assistants typically work standard business hours, though some positions in hospitals may require evening or weekend shifts.
Salary Trends Over Time
The chart below shows how lab assistant salaries have changed over the years, from 2015 to 2026. You can select a specific state to see localized trends or view the national average.
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Salary by State
The following table shows lab assistant salary data by state, including the lowest 10%, median, highest 10%, and average salaries.
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