What Does a Laboratory Analyst Do?
A laboratory analyst is a scientific professional responsible for performing tests and analyses on biological, chemical, or environmental samples to support product development, quality assurance, or compliance with regulatory standards. These professionals work across industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, environmental science, and manufacturing. Their primary goal is to produce accurate, repeatable results that help companies ensure product safety, research validity, or legal compliance.
Laboratory analysts carry out a variety of routine and specialized tests using equipment like gas chromatographs, spectrophotometers, and centrifuges. They follow strict procedures to prepare samples, monitor reactions, and document results. In addition to executing tests, lab analysts are responsible for maintaining lab instruments, troubleshooting errors, adhering to safety protocols, and upholding Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards. Their findings often contribute directly to decisions made in R&D, production, or regulatory reporting.
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Laboratory Analyst Core Responsibilities
- Conduct chemical, biological, or physical tests according to established protocols
- Prepare, label, and store samples properly for analysis
- Operate and maintain laboratory instruments such as pH meters, spectrometers, and chromatographs
- Record and interpret data with precision, following QA/QC guidelines
- Ensure test results meet regulatory requirements and industry standards
- Clean and calibrate equipment routinely to maintain testing accuracy
- Maintain detailed logs, data sheets, and electronic records for reporting purposes
- Assist in the development or validation of new testing methods or protocols
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures and scientific methods
- Experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, titration, and spectroscopy
- Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and regulatory standards (e.g., FDA, ISO, EPA)
- Proficiency using lab information management systems (LIMS)
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Analytical thinking and data interpretation
- Time management and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
- Written and verbal communication for documenting and reporting results
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, environmental science, or related field
Certifications
- Certification not always required, but may be preferred depending on industry
- Common certifications include:
- American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) – for clinical settings
- Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) or Certified Quality Technician (CQT) – for regulated industries
- GLP/GMP training is often recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience working in a regulated lab environment
- Familiarity with ISO 17025 standards or FDA compliance procedures
- Experience using laboratory automation systems or robotics
- Background in environmental monitoring, pharmaceutical testing, or microbiology
National Average Salary
Laboratory analyst salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Laboratory Analyst is:
$51,414
Sample Job Description Templates for Laboratory Analysts
Entry-Level Laboratory Analyst
Position Overview
We’re seeking an Entry-Level Laboratory Analyst to join our team and support core testing operations. This is an ideal opportunity for recent graduates or early-career scientists looking to gain experience in a regulated laboratory environment. You’ll assist in preparing samples, conducting standard tests, and maintaining equipment while learning industry protocols.
Responsibilities
- Perform routine tests and measurements under supervision
- Prepare reagents and label samples for analysis
- Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and lab safety protocols
- Record and report data with accuracy and attention to detail
- Clean and calibrate laboratory instruments as directed
- Assist with inventory tracking and material handling
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques (pipetting, weighing, solution prep)
- Understanding of safety protocols and good lab practices
- Basic data entry and analysis using Excel or LIMS
Soft skills
- Eagerness to learn and follow instructions
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment
- Time management skills
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, or a related scientific field
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or academic lab experience
- Exposure to FDA, EPA, or GLP environments
Mid-Level Laboratory Analyst
Position Overview
We are hiring a Mid-Level Laboratory Analyst with at least 2 years of industry experience to conduct advanced sample testing, troubleshoot routine lab issues, and contribute to quality control processes. This role offers a balance of technical execution and growing responsibility within our regulated lab setting.
Responsibilities
- Perform moderate to complex laboratory tests and analyze results
- Validate data accuracy and investigate inconsistencies
- Troubleshoot equipment and recommend solutions
- Collaborate with QA teams to ensure compliance with protocols
- Document test procedures, deviations, and corrective actions
- Mentor junior analysts in standard procedures
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in analytical techniques (e.g., UV-Vis, HPLC, titration)
- Ability to follow and revise SOPs and test methods
- Familiarity with industry-specific regulations (GLP, GMP, ISO)
Soft skills
- Analytical thinking and initiative
- Collaboration with cross-functional teams
- Clear written documentation and verbal communication
- Ability to manage multiple priorities
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, chemistry, or equivalent
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–4 years of lab analyst experience
- Familiarity with automated instrumentation or LIMS
Senior Laboratory Analyst
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Laboratory Analyst to serve as a subject matter expert in analytical methods and lead quality initiatives in our laboratory. This role requires an experienced analyst who can perform complex testing, mentor junior staff, and contribute to regulatory audits and method development.
Responsibilities
- Lead execution of advanced laboratory testing and data validation
- Provide technical support and troubleshooting for complex analyses
- Train and mentor entry- and mid-level analysts
- Ensure regulatory documentation is complete and audit-ready
- Participate in continuous improvement of lab processes and test methods
- Collaborate with R&D or QA teams on investigations and studies
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in high-precision analytical techniques (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC, FTIR)
- Thorough understanding of GLP/GMP and regulatory expectations
- Ability to write technical reports and contribute to SOP development
Soft skills
- Leadership presence without direct authority
- Problem-solving and innovation in daily lab operations
- Excellent time and project management
- Strong communication with internal and external stakeholders
Education
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in chemistry, biology, or related field
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in analytical laboratory settings
- Experience participating in FDA or ISO audits
Lead Laboratory Analyst
Position Overview
We are hiring a Lead Laboratory Analyst to oversee daily operations and ensure the accuracy and efficiency of lab testing workflows. This position combines advanced technical responsibilities with informal team leadership, providing guidance to analysts and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate scheduling and workflow among lab analysts
- Review testing data and approve reports for submission
- Troubleshoot high-level technical and procedural issues
- Ensure lab equipment is properly maintained and calibrated
- Lead training sessions on new procedures and equipment
- Support internal audits and method validations
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced proficiency in lab instrumentation and validation
- Understanding of regulatory standards (e.g., FDA, ISO 17025, GLP)
- Quality documentation and error tracking experience
Soft skills
- Leadership and decision-making in technical settings
- Team mentorship and knowledge sharing
- Prioritization and operational planning skills
- Clear communicator with QA and lab personnel
Education
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in life sciences or related discipline
Preferred Qualifications
- 6+ years of lab experience with demonstrated leadership
- Experience with LIMS administration or quality control roles
Laboratory Supervisor
Position Overview
We are looking for a Laboratory Supervisor to manage a team of lab analysts, oversee daily operations, and maintain compliance with safety and quality protocols. This role is key to ensuring efficient testing, timely reporting, and adherence to industry regulations.
Responsibilities
- Supervise day-to-day lab operations and team performance
- Ensure quality standards and timelines are consistently met
- Lead hiring, training, and performance reviews of lab personnel
- Maintain inventory, order supplies, and manage equipment maintenance
- Enforce regulatory and safety compliance
- Liaise with cross-departmental leadership to coordinate priorities
Requirements
Hard skills
- Team management in a regulated lab environment
- Quality control oversight and documentation practices
- Familiarity with safety standards and incident reporting
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and team development skills
- Operational efficiency and process optimization
- Excellent organizational and planning skills
- Conflict resolution and accountability management
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of lab experience with 2+ in a supervisory role
- Experience with audits and CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action) processes
Laboratory Manager
Position Overview
We are seeking a Laboratory Manager to lead laboratory strategy, oversee budgets and compliance, and ensure alignment between lab output and business goals. This senior-level role requires a blend of technical insight, operational leadership, and regulatory expertise.
Responsibilities
- Direct overall laboratory operations, staffing, and budgets
- Define and monitor performance KPIs and regulatory benchmarks
- Develop and implement lab strategy aligned with business needs
- Collaborate with executives on lab capacity, growth, and resource planning
- Ensure full compliance with internal and external quality standards
- Oversee CAPA implementation, audits, and vendor relationships
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced understanding of lab operations, budgeting, and compliance
- Regulatory and accreditation management (FDA, ISO, CLIA, etc.)
- Facility and staff planning experience
Soft skills
- Strategic thinking and cross-functional collaboration
- Executive communication and leadership
- Team-building and organizational development
- Crisis management and problem resolution
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred in science or business
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of laboratory experience with 3+ in management
- Experience with multi-site lab operations or large teams