Lab Operator salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Lab Operator in United States is approximately 39,732 USD (39,900 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Lab Operator do?

A lab operator is responsible for performing various tasks in a laboratory setting to support scientific research and experiments. They handle equipment, prepare and clean lab materials, and assist in conducting tests and experiments. Lab operators may also be involved in data collection, analysis, and documentation of results. They ensure that lab procedures are followed accurately and safely, while maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the lab. Lab operators work under the supervision of scientists or researchers, following their instructions and protocols.

Skills: Lab operator, Laboratory technician, Scientific research, Equipment handling, Data collection, Experimentation
Job industry: Science and research

How much does Lab Operator make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Lab Operator a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Lab Operator is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Lab Operator might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Lab Operator?

High salary for Lab Operator would be somewhere between 43,705 USD and 57,611 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Lab Operator in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 39,732 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 3,311 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 764 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 19 USD per hour
By working as Lab Operator a person can save up to 1,045 USD per month or 12,540 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Lab Operator

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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