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Associate Life Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Percy Towers

Life Sciences Associate

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$260K - $420K/yr

Senior Associate/Counsel § Practice Area: Life Sciences & Capital Markets, Bio-Pharmaceutical Transactions, Public Securities, and Venture Finance § Location: San Francisco, CA (Onsite/Hybrid) § ...

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$10

$19

$32

How much do associate life science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate life science in California is $19.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An Associate Life Science role typically does not pay $10,000 a month without a degree, as most positions in this field require at least a bachelor's degree. However, some high-paying roles in sales, biotech sales, or specialized laboratory consulting may reach or exceed this income level through commissions, bonuses, or experience, often requiring strong industry knowledge and certifications rather than formal degrees.

What does an Associate Life Science do?

An Associate Life Science professional typically supports research and development activities within the life sciences field, such as biology, biotechnology, or pharmaceuticals. Their responsibilities often include conducting experiments, analyzing data, maintaining laboratory equipment, and documenting results. They may also assist in the preparation of reports and presentations, comply with safety regulations, and collaborate with scientists and research teams. The role provides foundational experience for advancing in scientific and technical careers.

What is the difference between Associate Life Science vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAssociate Life ScienceLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree in life sciences or related fieldAssociate degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, healthcare settingsResearch labs, clinical labs, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, research institutionsHospitals, research centers, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles typically require an associate degree and involve working in laboratory environments within biotech, healthcare, or research industries. While the Associate Life Science often focuses on supporting research and development activities, Laboratory Technicians may perform more routine testing and sample analysis. The roles are similar in credentials and work settings, but the Associate Life Science may involve more scientific support tasks, whereas Laboratory Technicians focus on technical procedures.

What can I do with a life science associate degree?

A life science associate degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as laboratory technician, research assistant, or quality control analyst. These positions often involve working in labs, conducting experiments, and using tools like microscopes and lab equipment, sometimes requiring certifications or knowledge of safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Life Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Life Scientist, a solid grounding in biology, chemistry, or related life sciences—usually with at least a bachelor’s degree—is essential. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and scientific instrumentation such as PCR machines and spectrophotometers is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate research outcomes, maintaining safety standards, and contributing meaningfully to scientific projects.

What careers can I do with life science?

A career in life science can lead to roles such as research scientist, laboratory technician, biotechnologist, or quality control analyst. These positions often require knowledge of laboratory techniques, scientific analysis, and sometimes specialized certifications or advanced degrees in biology, chemistry, or related fields.

What jobs can you get with just an associate of science?

An Associate of Science degree can qualify you for entry-level positions in fields such as laboratory technician, research assistant, pharmacy technician, or quality control analyst. These roles often require basic laboratory skills, familiarity with scientific tools, and sometimes certification or on-the-job training.

What are typical collaboration opportunities for an Associate Life Science professional within a research organization?

As an Associate Life Science professional, you will frequently collaborate with scientists, lab technicians, and cross-functional teams such as data analysts and regulatory specialists. You'll often participate in team meetings to discuss experimental design, share findings, and troubleshoot challenges together. Interdisciplinary collaboration is key, as projects may require integrating expertise from biology, chemistry, and data science. This team-oriented environment not only enhances the quality of research but also provides valuable learning and networking opportunities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Life Science jobs in California? The most popular types of Life Science jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Life Science jobs in California? For Associate Life Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Life Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Life Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Life Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Life Science job openings:
Associate Life Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Life Science job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,786 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Intellectual Property Litigation Associate (Life Sciences)

Direct Counsel

Irvine, CA • On-site

$260K - $390K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Direct Counsel is seeking an IP Litigation Associate to join a nationally recognized Life Sciences Intellectual Property practice in Orange County. This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney with pharmaceutical patent litigation experience who is looking to work on complex, high-stakes disputes involving some of the most innovative companies in the life sciences industry.

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience representing innovator pharmaceutical companies in Hatch-Waxman and biologics litigation and a strong interest in developing litigation strategy, managing sophisticated matters, and advising clients on critical intellectual property issues.

Responsibilities
  • Represent innovator pharmaceutical and life sciences companies in patent litigation matters
  • Handle all phases of complex intellectual property disputes, including:
    • Hatch-Waxman (ANDA) litigation
    • Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act (BPCIA) litigation
    • District court patent litigation
    • PTAB proceedings
  • Draft and argue:
    • Motions
    • Briefs
    • Legal memoranda
    • Case strategy documents
  • Collaborate with scientific experts and technical consultants
  • Conduct discovery, deposition preparation, and witness examinations
  • Assist with trial preparation and case management
  • Advise clients on patent enforcement, litigation risk, and intellectual property strategy
  • Work closely with clients on high-profile and business-critical disputes
Qualifications
  • J.D. from an accredited law school
  • Junior to mid-level associate experience
  • Significant patent litigation experience in the life sciences sector
  • Experience with:
    • Hatch-Waxman (ANDA) litigation
    • BPCIA litigation
    • Pharmaceutical patent disputes
    • PTAB proceedings
    • District court patent litigation
  • Experience representing innovator pharmaceutical companies
  • Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
  • Excellent oral advocacy and communication abilities
  • Ability to manage sophisticated litigation matters in a fast-paced environment
  • Outstanding academic credentials
Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary range: $260,000 – $390,000
  • Compensation based on experience, qualifications, and other operational considerations
  • Discretionary performance-based bonus opportunities
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
  • Retirement benefits
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • Parental leave
  • Basic life insurance
Why This Opportunity
  • Join a nationally recognized Life Sciences IP Litigation practice
  • Work on cutting-edge pharmaceutical and biologics patent disputes
  • Represent leading innovator life sciences and pharmaceutical companies
  • Gain meaningful responsibility and direct client exposure
  • Collaborate with top litigators, scientists, and industry experts
  • Strong mentorship, professional development, and long-term career growth opportunities

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.