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Associate Scientist 1 Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Xencor

Associate Scientist 1

Pasadena, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

We have an exciting opportunity for an Associate Scientist I-Biophysical Characterization & High-Throughput Screening, to join our team. This position is based fully onsite at our Pasadena, CA. site.

System One

Associate Scientist

Fremont, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Associate Scientist - Mammalian Cell Culture Location: Fremont, CA Pay Rate: $22-25/hour Hours : M ... System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees ...

Orion Group

Associate Scientist I

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$36 - $40/hr

Associate Scientist I $36 - $40/hr with medical benefits available at a cost 2 year contract 100 ... one of the largest, independent, international recruitment companies. We have a network of 200 ...

Aequor

Associate Scientist

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

Engages coworkers in scientific discussions ? Communicates data and interpretation to work group ... Skilled and/or knowledgeable in the use of standard laboratory equipment and with one or more major ...

The Steely Group

Associate Scientist

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Engages coworkers in scientific discussions. Communicates data and interpretation to work group ... Bachelors' degree & 2 Years of industry experience (MS acceptable with no more than 1 Year relevant ...

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All JobsAssociate Scientist 1 JobsAssociate Scientist 1 Jobs in California

Associate Scientist 1 information

See California salary details

$18

$35

$56

How much do associate scientist 1 jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist 1 in California is $35.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.50 and $40.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the roles and responsibilities of an Associate Scientist 1?

An Associate Scientist 1 is an entry-level professional in scientific research or laboratory settings, often working under the supervision of senior scientists. Their responsibilities typically include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. They may also be involved in preparing reports, documenting findings, and supporting ongoing research projects. This role is commonly found in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and environmental science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Scientist 1?

To thrive as an Associate Scientist 1, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, laboratory techniques, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments like HPLC or PCR, and good laboratory practice (GLP) certifications are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data generation, compliance with protocols, and productive collaboration in research environments.

What are some common challenges faced by an Associate Scientist 1 when transitioning from academic research to an industry laboratory setting?

One common challenge for Associate Scientist 1s transitioning from academia to industry is adapting to a faster-paced environment where projects are driven by business objectives and timelines. Unlike academic labs, industry teams often require more collaboration across departments and adherence to strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) and regulatory guidelines. You may also find that data documentation and reproducibility are emphasized more heavily, and learning to balance multiple projects simultaneously is essential. Embracing these differences early on can help you succeed and grow within the team.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist 1 vs Research Associate?

CriteriaAssociate Scientist 1Research Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fieldBachelor's degree often sufficient; Master's preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, research settings, industry or academiaLaboratory, research settings, industry or academia
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical, biotech, research institutionsPharmaceutical, biotech, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between Associate Scientist 1 and Research Associate lies in the level of responsibility and experience. Associate Scientist 1 typically requires a higher level of education and may involve more independent research tasks. Both roles are common in research-focused industries and share similar work environments.

What cities in California are hiring for Associate Scientist 1 jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate Scientist 1 job openings:

Associate Scientist 1 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Scientist 1 job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,745 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Associate Scientist 1

Xencor

Pasadena, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Xencor is a public, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in the Los Angeles area (Pasadena) and in San Diego. Our focus is developing high-potential XmAb® bispecific T-cell engagers and additional engineered drug candidates that leverage our differentiated technology platforms, and we are advancing our pipeline toward clinical proof-of-concept decisions. Our goal is to create high-impact therapeutics for patients with cancer and other serious diseases. More than 20 XmAb drug candidates engineered with our technology are in clinical development, and three XmAb medicines have been marketed by partners. For more information, please visit www.xencor.com. We have an exciting opportunity for an Associate Scientist I-Biophysical Characterization & High-Throughput Screening, to join our team.
This position is based fully onsite at our Pasadena, CA. site.
Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist I to support antibody discovery, engineering, and characterization efforts across Xencor's preclinical pipeline. This role will help advance antibody screening and developability assessments through hands-on execution of cell-based, flow cytometry, and biophysical assays that inform lead selection and project decisions. The ideal candidate will bring strong experimental and troubleshooting skills, with an interest in or experience leveraging automation, data analysis tools, and AI-assisted technologies to enhance assay workflows, data processing, and reporting capabilities.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Support antibody discovery, engineering, and characterization activities by executing cell-based assays, multi-color flow cytometry, and plate-based developability assays.
  • Execute, optimize, and troubleshoot high-throughput experimental workflows, including liquid handling systems.
  • Analyze, interpret, document, and communicate experimental results to project teams in a clear and timely manner.
  • Contribute to the development and streamlining of data analysis and reporting workflows through scripting, workflow automation, and laboratory informatics tools.
  • Maintain accurate experimental records and ensure proper data integrity, traceability, and documentation practices.
  • Support laboratory operations through routine instrument maintenance, inventory management, reagent preparation, and sample tracking.

Minimum Qualifications & Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Cell Biology, Immunology, or related scientific discipline with 6+ years of relevant industry laboratory experience, or Master's degree with 4+ years of relevant industry laboratory experience. The Company reserves the right to consider internal experience in lieu of requirements listed above.
  • Strong hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, transient/stable cell line generation, and cell-based antibody screening assays, including binding and competition assays, reporter assays, and related screening technologies.
  • Demonstrated experience with multi-color flow cytometry and flow cytometry data analysis software (e.g., FlowJo, OMIQ, or equivalent).
  • Experience with high-throughput assay workflows and liquid handling systems.
  • Experience with scientific data analysis and visualization platforms such as Benchling, GraphPad Prism, SpotFire, or similar tools.
  • Experience applying scripting, data automation, or AI-assisted tools to improve experimental data processing, visualization, and reporting is strongly preferred.
  • Experience with plate-based biochemical and developability assays such as polyreactivity ELISA, thermal stability assays, self-association assays, or related methods is preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot assays, optimize experimental workflows, and generate reproducible high-quality data.
  • Strong organizational, record-keeping, and communication skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.

Additional Requirements for Laboratory and Research Related Jobs
This role may involve work with experimental subjects and/or specimens, including infected samples, plus various hazardous materials and infectious agents (Bloodborne Pathogens or other potentially infectious materials (OPIMs)). Therefore, the following are also required:
  • Ability to follow the established Environmental Health & Safety rules, procedures, and/or BioSafety Guidelines
  • Ability to read and understand Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
  • Ability to be available and willing to work some weekends and evenings to conduct and complete experiments
  • Knowledge of biosafety techniques and aseptic/gowning practices
  • Experience with laboratory safety standards and procedures, including biohazard handling and disposal techniques, and the ability to ensure laboratory compliance with required safety regulations
  • Experience working with biological and chemical hazards, infectious agents, bloodborne pathogens and animal allergens
  • Experience working in and maintaining a sterile environment
  • Experience working with chemical and biological hazards
  • Thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment such as microscopes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, and electrophoresis equipment, freezers, and incubators.

Expected Base Salary Range: $95,500 - $121,250
The actual salary will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications, including skills, competencies, education and experience. Xencor offers a competitive total rewards package including 401k match, healthcare coverage, ESPP and a broad range of other benefits. In addition, this position will be eligible for an annual bonus and equity grant. For more information, please see https://xencor.com/careers/.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement
The Company will provide reasonable accommodations (such as a qualified sign language interpreter or other personal assistance) with the application process upon your request as required to comply with applicable laws. If you have a disability and require assistance in this application process, please contact HR@xencor.com.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
The Company is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Xencor does not accept profiles or resumes from recruiting vendors without a binding written agreement. Any unsolicited submission of services and/or resumes in no way creates an obligation or duty by Xencor, implied or otherwise.
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About Xencor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Biotechnology research and development

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US

Year founded

1997

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