As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a Laboratory Assistant I in the United States is $57,915 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.
However, a Laboratory Assistant I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Laboratory Assistant I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Laboratory Assistant I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Laboratory Assistant I | 0-2 years | $57,915 |
| Laboratory Assistant II | 2-4 years | $70,002 |
| Laboratory Assistant III | 4-7 years | $87,713 |
| Laboratory Assistant IV | 7+ years | $108,676 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Laboratory Assistant Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 7.44% |
| Laboratory Equipment | 2.92% |
| Quality Assurance | 1.92% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Clinical Research
|
$66,602 |
15%
|
|
Presentation
|
$64,286 |
11%
|
|
Accountability
|
$61,969 |
7%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$61,969 |
7%
|
|
Organizing
|
$61,969 |
7%
|
|
Data Collection
|
$61,390 |
6%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Laboratory Assistant Is enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Laboratory Assistant I with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $53,027 and $58,571).
Laboratory Assistant I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.3% |
| High School | 15.9% |
| Associates | 7.6% |
| Bachelors | 68.8% |
| Masters | 6.8% |
| Doctorate | 0.6% |
Understanding how a Laboratory Assistant I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on April 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Laboratory Assistant I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Research Technician II - Biotech | $62,455 | 8% |
| Laboratory Assistant II | $70,002 | 21% |
Salaries for a Laboratory Assistant I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $54,738 in 2023 to around $54,504 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Laboratory Assistant I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $54,738 |
| 2024 | $54,710 |
| 2025 | $54,504 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Laboratory Assistant I and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A Laboratory Assistant I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Laboratory Assistant I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Laboratory Assistant I is $73,048.
The highest pay for Laboratory Assistant I is $68,478.
The lowest pay for Laboratory Assistant I is $45,723.
Performs research activities in a laboratory environment to aid in the planning, designing, and conducting of experiments. Collects, prepares, and tests samples and records measurements or observations. Prepares reports detailing results and conclusions, applications, and methodology. Conducts routine maintenance and safety checks on lab equipment to ensure working order. Assists with receipt and inspection of raw materials and the ordering and stocking of materials and equipment. May be responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining cleanrooms and equipment. Typically requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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