Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Washington
Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Washington are in strong demand, concentrated in hospital systems, reference laboratories, public health agencies, and academic medical centers, with openings at every level from entry-level to senior specialist. Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma account for the largest share of hiring, where established employers such as UW Medicine, Providence Health, and LabCorp maintain consistent laboratory staffing needs. Molecular diagnostics, microbiology, and blood banking are among the most sought-after specialties in Washington right now. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 27+ Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs
Job Description
Who we’re looking for:
The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Trainee/1 with the UW Division of Infectious Disease Diagnostics (DIDD) Team at the Renton Central Lab.
The DIDD is one of nine divisions comprising the Department of Laboratory Medicine at the University of Washington. The UW Virology Clinical Laboratories perform diagnostic testing for a full range of human pathogens including Herpes group, HIV, hepatitis, respiratory, and enteric viruses. The Division provides the highest quality patient care and serves as a model of excellence for clinical laboratories across the nation.
MLS professionals generate critical diagnostic results that guide clinical decisions, often influencing treatment in real time - even though the work happens behind the scenes. These roles involve hands-on work with cutting-edge instruments, molecular diagnostics, automation, and evolving methodologies, keeping the work intellectually engaging and technically challenging. Every day brings new challenges - troubleshooting assays, interpreting complex results, and adapting to new tests or technologies—making these roles dynamic and professionally rewarding
Work schedule:
- 100% FTE
- Tuesday through Saturday with rotating holidays
What you’ll contribute:
- Perform clinical virology diagnostic laboratory tests; record, evaluate and interpret test results; contact appropriate personnel for tests with unusual or critical findings.
- Assist in developing, following procedures and/or troubleshooting procedures and problems that may or may not include actual wet lab involvement, but requires a comprehensive understanding of laboratory testing gained from a foundation of medical laboratory science training and experience performing moderate to high complexity testing.
- Calibrate, operate, troubleshoot and perform preventive maintenance to laboratory instruments and related equipment.
- Assure that quality control requirements are met to validate test results; record data and maintain continual quality assurance program; utilize electronic quality control system.
- Proficiency required in computer systems and programs such as Microsoft Word & Excel.
- Proficient in laboratory information systems, discipline-specific middleware, as well as all institution-based computer systems for test result entry and/or data acquisition.
- Assist in instruction and training of new employees, post-doctoral fellows, residents, and students.
- Act as a resource to other lab personnel including Clinical Laboratory Technicians and Specimen Processing Technicians.
- Assist in the design, development and evaluation of new procedures/processes.
- Prepare and verify the quality of reagents, standards, and control samples.
- Continuing education: Keep ASCP or other certification up to date per guidelines of the National Organization.
What you’ll need:
Requirements for an MLS Trainee :
- Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Requirements for an MLS 1 :
- Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
- Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent certifying organization OR certification with specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division AND
Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
What we offer:
- Relocation incentive for eligible new employees.
- Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
- State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
- Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
- Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
- Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:
A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.
Please visit our website to learn more about our department.
About UW Medicine:
UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.
Become part of our team . Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$38.46 hourlyPay Range Maximum:
$56.73 hourlyOther Compensation:
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/Shift:
Evening Shift (United States of America)Temporary or Regular?
This is a regular positionFTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
100.00%Union/Bargaining Unit:
SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab TechABOUT UW MEDICINE – WHERE YOUR IMPACT GOES FURTHER
UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that includes: Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.
Our Commitment
The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 .
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu .
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law .
Job Description
Who we’re looking for:
The UW Medicine - Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology (DLMP) in Seattle, WA has a fantastic opportunity for a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Trainee/1 with the UW Division of Infectious Disease Diagnostics (DIDD) Team at the Renton Central Lab.
The DIDD is one of nine divisions comprising the Department of Laboratory Medicine at the University of Washington. The UW Virology Clinical Laboratories perform diagnostic testing for a full range of human pathogens including Herpes group, HIV, hepatitis, respiratory, and enteric viruses. The Division provides the highest quality patient care and serves as a model of excellence for clinical laboratories across the nation.
MLS professionals generate critical diagnostic results that guide clinical decisions, often influencing treatment in real time - even though the work happens behind the scenes. These roles involve hands-on work with cutting-edge instruments, molecular diagnostics, automation, and evolving methodologies, keeping the work intellectually engaging and technically challenging. Every day brings new challenges - troubleshooting assays, interpreting complex results, and adapting to new tests or technologies—making these roles dynamic and professionally rewarding
Work schedule:
- 100% FTE
- Tuesday through Saturday with rotating holidays
What you’ll contribute:
- Perform clinical virology diagnostic laboratory tests; record, evaluate and interpret test results; contact appropriate personnel for tests with unusual or critical findings.
- Assist in developing, following procedures and/or troubleshooting procedures and problems that may or may not include actual wet lab involvement, but requires a comprehensive understanding of laboratory testing gained from a foundation of medical laboratory science training and experience performing moderate to high complexity testing.
- Calibrate, operate, troubleshoot and perform preventive maintenance to laboratory instruments and related equipment.
- Assure that quality control requirements are met to validate test results; record data and maintain continual quality assurance program; utilize electronic quality control system.
- Proficiency required in computer systems and programs such as Microsoft Word & Excel.
- Proficient in laboratory information systems, discipline-specific middleware, as well as all institution-based computer systems for test result entry and/or data acquisition.
- Assist in instruction and training of new employees, post-doctoral fellows, residents, and students.
- Act as a resource to other lab personnel including Clinical Laboratory Technicians and Specimen Processing Technicians.
- Assist in the design, development and evaluation of new procedures/processes.
- Prepare and verify the quality of reagents, standards, and control samples.
- Continuing education: Keep ASCP or other certification up to date per guidelines of the National Organization.
What you’ll need:
Requirements for an MLS Trainee :
- Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Requirements for an MLS 1 :
- Accredited bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science OR equivalent education/experience AND
- Current Medical Laboratory Scientist certification with the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent certifying organization OR certification with specialty organization appropriate to the laboratory division AND
Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
What we offer:
- Relocation incentive for eligible new employees.
- Vacation time and sick time off that accrue monthly, including 12 paid holidays.
- State Employee Tuition Exemption Program covering up to 6 credits of qualifying coursework per quarter at the University of Washington or other participating colleges or universities.
- Fully subsidized public transit pass (U-PASS) that covers multiple forms of public transportation in the region.
- Excellent healthcare, dental, disability, retirement, and other plan options.
- Lots of free fantastic fitness, healthy eating, finance, and stress reduction classes offered through the Whole U.
About the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology:
A regional resource for clinical laboratory services required for innovative patient care, research and educational programs, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology at UW Medicine combines the sophisticated testing and informatics capabilities of fully accredited laboratories with the resources of an academic institution in its delivery of clinical and anatomic pathology services. Recognized for excellence in clinical training, world-class research initiatives, and a commitment to community service, we serve labs and medical facilities both nationally and internationally.
Please visit our website to learn more about our department.
About UW Medicine:
UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that include Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.
Become part of our team . Join our mission to make life healthier for everyone in our community.
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$38.46 hourlyPay Range Maximum:
$56.73 hourlyOther Compensation:
Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/Shift:
Evening Shift (United States of America)Temporary or Regular?
This is a regular positionFTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
100.00%Union/Bargaining Unit:
SEIU Local 925 Healthcare Prof/Lab TechABOUT UW MEDICINE – WHERE YOUR IMPACT GOES FURTHER
UW Medicine is Washington’s only health system that includes a top-rated medical school and an internationally recognized research center. UW Medicine’s mission is to improve the health of the public by advancing medical knowledge, providing outstanding primary and specialty care to the people of the region, and preparing tomorrow’s physicians, scientists and other health professionals.
All across UW Medicine, our employees collaborate to perform the highest quality work with integrity and compassion and to create a respectful, welcoming environment where every patient, family, student and colleague is valued and honored. Nearly 29,000 healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators work in the UW Medicine family of organizations that includes: Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center - Montlake, UW Medical Center - Northwest, UW Medicine Primary Care, UW Physicians, UW School of Medicine, and Airlift Northwest.
Our Commitment
The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 .
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu .
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law .
See All 27 Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Washington
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Find JobsMedical Laboratory Scientist Jobs by City in Washington
Where Washington roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Medical Laboratory Scientist Job Market in Washington
A snapshot from current Washington openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
What Washington Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in medical laboratory scientist jobs across Washington.
- Washington State laboratory license or license recognized by the Washington State Department of Health
- ASCP Board of Certification or equivalent national certification as MLS or MT
- Bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science, clinical laboratory science, or a related biological science
- Demonstrated proficiency in hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and blood banking laboratory sections
- Experience with laboratory information systems such as Epic Beaker, Sunquest, or Cerner PathNet
- Ability to work rotating shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays in a clinical setting
Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Washington: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a medical laboratory scientist in Washington?
To work as a medical laboratory scientist in Washington, you must obtain a clinical laboratory scientist license issued by the Washington State Department of Health. Licensure requires a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field, completion of an accredited clinical training program, and passing a national certification exam such as the ASCP MLS examination. Applications are submitted directly to the Washington State Department of Health's laboratory quality program.
Which companies hire medical laboratory scientists in Washington?
Employers hiring medical laboratory scientists in Washington right now include University Of Washington, CommonSpirit Health, and Seattle Children's, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. Washington's mix of large academic medical centers, regional hospital networks, and national reference laboratory operations creates consistent hiring activity throughout the state.
Which Washington cities have the most medical laboratory scientist jobs?
Seattle, Burien, and Tacoma have the most medical laboratory scientist openings in Washington. Seattle drives the largest share of postings due to its concentration of major hospital systems and academic medical centers, while Spokane and Tacoma support sizable regional health networks that maintain their own full-service laboratories, generating steady demand outside the Puget Sound area.
Are there remote medical laboratory scientist jobs in Washington?
Yes, but they're rare. Most medical laboratory scientist work requires hands-on specimen handling, instrumentation, and on-site laboratory operations that cannot be performed remotely. About 0% of medical laboratory scientist openings tied to Washington are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, and those positions typically involve roles in laboratory management, compliance review, or informatics rather than bench work.
How can I get hired as a medical laboratory scientist in Washington with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to new-graduate programs at large Washington health systems such as UW Medicine or Providence Health, which periodically onboard candidates who have completed an accredited clinical training rotation even without post-graduation experience. Lateral moves from roles such as laboratory assistant, phlebotomist, or histology technician within the same system are common pathways. Holding a current Washington State clinical laboratory scientist license and ASCP certification before applying gives candidates a measurable edge over unlicensed applicants.
Where can I find and apply to medical laboratory scientist jobs in Washington?
You can find and apply to medical laboratory scientist jobs in Washington on Migrate Mate, which lists current Washington openings. Search the available roles, find the ones that fit your experience and specialty, and apply directly to the employers posting them.
See All 27 Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Washington
Find roles in Washington that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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