How Much Does a Research Technician I make?

Research Technician I made a median salary around $49,078 in March, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $53,725 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $43,709. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Check out Research Technician jobs in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Feedlot Research Technician - Lead (Mead, NE)

University of Nebraska–Lincoln - Fort Wayne, IN

Research Versa Technician

Purdue University - West Lafayette, IN

Research Technician I

Inotiv - Mount Vernon, IN

RN PER DIEM I

University of New Mexico - Hospitals - ALBUQUERQUE, NM

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Best-Paying Cities for Research Technician I

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Research Technician I profession are Lowell , Hebron , Crown Point , Dyer , East Chicago .
Lowell, IN $52,813
Hebron, IN $52,708
Crown Point, IN $52,550
Dyer, IN $52,550
East Chicago, IN $52,550

Best-Paying States for Research Technician I

The states and districts that pay Research Technician I the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $58,547) , California (around $58,021) , New Jersey (around $57,652) , Alaska (around $57,284) , and Massachusetts (around $57,232) .
District of Columbia $58,547
California $58,021
New Jersey $57,652
Alaska $57,284
Massachusetts $57,232

What is the Career Path of Research Technician I?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Research Technician I, the first career path typically starts with a Research Technician II - Biotech position , and then progresses to Research Technician III - Biotech.

Additionally, the second career path typically starts with a Laboratory Assistant II position , and then progresses to Laboratory Assistant III.

Besides, Research Technician I can also turn to other related jobs, including Research Technician I - Biotech , Lab Research Support Technician I , Safety Technician I and Laboratory Technician I .

Frequently Asked Questions for Research Technician I

Q: What is the salary range of Research Technician I in Fort Wayne, IN?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid Research Technician I in Fort Wayne, IN earned an average annual salary of $43,709 , while the highest-paid made $53,725.
Q: What is the salary for a Research Technician I in California?
A: Research Technician I employed in California earned an average salary of $58,021 in 2025.

Average Research Technician I Pay vs. Other Jobs

Research Technician I earned an average salary of $49,078 in 2025. Other jobs related to Research Technician I earned the following average salary in March, 2025. Research Technician I - Biotech made $48,737 , Lab Research Support Technician I made $42,533 , Safety Technician I and Laboratory Technician I made $46,614 and $56,990 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Research Technician I

Research Technician I - Biotech - Average Salary $48,737
Research Technician I - Biotech performs analytical tests and experiments in support of biotech research projects. Operates laboratory equipment and instruments. Being a Research Technician I - Biotech utilizes scientific software to interpret and record test results. Experienced with standard chemistry and molecular biology lab practices and techniques. Additionally, Research Technician I - Biotech requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Research Technician I - Biotech work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. To be a Research Technician I - Biotech typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
Lab Research Support Technician I - Average Salary $42,533
The Lab Research Support Technician I assembles, configures, and maintains equipment for use in tests and experiments. Provides routine technical support for laboratory operations. Being a Lab Research Support Technician I operates equipment, prepares chemical solutions, and performs analytical tests as assigned. Responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining cleanrooms and equipment. In addition, Lab Research Support Technician I records test results and maintains records as instructed. Complies with all safety and operational procedures and policies. Typically requires an associate degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. Being a Lab Research Support Technician I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Safety Technician I - Average Salary $46,614
Safety Technician I inspects work areas and equipment to ensure compliance with internal and external safety policies, standards, and regulations. Assists engineers to research and implement solutions that mitigate and address hazardous workplace conditions. Being a Safety Technician I takes samples and measurements to identify and monitor hazardous or toxic conditions and ensure adequate safety precautions or equipment. Evaluates safety requirements and specifications to ensure protective equipment meets safety thresholds. Additionally, Safety Technician I prepares and maintains safety documents, inspections, and reports and ensures accurate and compliant record-keeping. May require a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Safety Technician I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Laboratory Technician I - Average Salary $56,990
The Laboratory Technician I collects, prepares, and tests samples and records measurements or observations. Performs research activities in a laboratory environment to aid in the planning, designing, and conducting of experiments. Being a Laboratory Technician I conducts routine maintenance and safety checks on lab equipment to ensure working order. Prepares reports detailing results and conclusions, applications, and methodology. In addition, Laboratory Technician I 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. Being a Laboratory Technician I work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Working as a Laboratory Technician I typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
Laboratory Support Technician I - Average Salary $42,515
Laboratory Support Technician I provides routine technical support for laboratory operations. Assembles, configures, and maintains equipment for use in tests and experiments. Being a Laboratory Support Technician I is responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining cleanrooms and equipment. Operates equipment, prepares chemical solutions, and performs analytical tests as assigned. Additionally, Laboratory Support Technician I records test results and maintains records as instructed. Complies with all safety and operational procedures and policies. Typically requires an associate degree. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Laboratory Support Technician I works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.