As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Laboratory Assistant I in District of Columbia is $64,140 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $31.
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, 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 | $64,140 |
| Laboratory Assistant II | 2-4 years | $77,539 |
| Laboratory Assistant III | 4-7 years | $97,168 |
| Laboratory Assistant IV | 7+ years | $120,395 |
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:
Laboratory Assistant I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $71,750. While startup companies pay approximate $60,718.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $60,718 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $64,206 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $69,298 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $71,750 |
For Laboratory Assistant I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 110% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Software & Networking and Financial Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 40% above the average. In contrast, Laboratory Assistant positions in Hospitality & Leisure or Transportation typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Laboratory Assistant I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software & Networking | $89,796 | $43.0 | 40% |
| Financial Services | $83,382 | $40.0 | 30% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $83,382 | $40.0 | 30% |
| Biotechnology | $76,968 | $37.0 | 20% |
| Healthcare | $76,968 | $37.0 | 20% |
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 July 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 | $69,158 | 8% |
| Laboratory Assistant II | $77,539 | 21% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Laboratory Assistant I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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