analytical chemist

laboratory assistant

chemist

microbiologist

laboratory analyst

Vanguard-Laboratory

I worked as a Laboratory Technician for almost two years before moving out of state. 
It was a good experience and one of the better labs I’ve been part of.
A typical day involved receiving and logging samples then preparing and running both microbiological tests and supporting analytical chemistry work. 

The variety of sample types gave me experience in both micro and chemistry that I wouldn’t have gotten at a bigger, more specialized facility.

Management was supportive and easy to work with. Being a smaller family-owned lab, leadership stayed accessible, gave solid training, and actually listened when we had ideas or concerns.

 Coworkers were knowledgeable and happy to help troubleshoot or answer questions. 
The hardest part was occasionally managing high sample volumes during busy stretches

The most enjoyable part was the variety and the sense of purpose. Every day brought different samples and challenges, and it felt good knowing our testing helped clients keep their products safe.

I only left because I relocated out of state, otherwise I would have stayed. I’d recommend Vanguard to anyone looking for a hands-on lab tech role with good people and real opportunities to learn in the Olympia area.

A typical day involves running around helping with cleaning the lab which is constant, helping with recieving, performing tests, and ensuring everything is in compliance. The owner is gone a lot of the time leaving a disorganized environment, there are favorites because it is such a small family owned company, they definitely feel as if employees are disposable and replaceable, and you definitely will be doing a lot of work that is outside of your job description. I enjoyed the atmosphere in the beginning, but was quickly disappointed with the dynamic after working there for a few months. 

Overall this was one of the better lab experiences I have had. I had lots of opportunities to learn new instrumentation. Some of the work was routine but we always had interesting samples coming in and unique projects that keep the work interesting. The people I worked with were all enthusiastic and enjoyed what they did. At times the work could be a bit challenging and I would have liked a bit more structured training, but overall it was a positive experience.

Top Job Titles	Average Salary
Analytical chemist 3 salaries reported	$74,000 per year
Laboratory assistant 3 salaries reported	$20.33 per hour
Chemist 2 salaries reported	$22.75 per hour
Microbiologist 3 salaries reported	$27.83 per hour
Laboratory analyst 1 salary reported	$20.00 per hour

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