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Associate Scientist I Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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% Onsite out of South San Francisco Normal first shift lab hours, Monday - Friday (occasional weekend ...

Xencor

Associate Scientist 1

Pasadena, CA · On-site

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.

AbbVie

Scientist I, Automation

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

... Associate Scientist I position. The primary role of this position will emphasize analytical chemistry, HPLC-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS), laboratory automation, and implement automated and data ...

LanceSoft Inc

Scientist I

San Diego, CA

The Scientist I is responsible for assisting in the development and evaluation of new reagents and enhancements to existing reagents. Executes experiments independently and evaluates and discusses ...

Rani Therapeutics

Scientist I - III

Fremont, CA

$80K - $179K/hr

Scientist I - III (Temp-to-Hire) Department: CMC and Bioanalytic Reports to ... Associate Director, CMC and Bioanalytics PURPOSE OF THE JOBRani Therapeutics has developed a ...

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All JobsAssociate Scientist I JobsAssociate Scientist I Jobs in California

Associate Scientist I information

See California salary details

$18

$35

$56

How much do associate scientist i jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist i 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 does an Associate Scientist I do?

An Associate Scientist I is an entry-level professional in the scientific research field, typically working in laboratories within industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or environmental science. Their main responsibilities include conducting experiments, analyzing data, maintaining laboratory equipment, and assisting senior scientists with research projects. They also help document findings and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. This role is ideal for individuals with a bachelor's or master's degree in a scientific discipline who are looking to gain hands-on experience and advance in their scientific careers.

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

To thrive as an Associate Scientist I, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and standard operating procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate experimental results, compliance with regulations, and productive collaboration within research teams.

What are some common challenges faced by an Associate Scientist I when working in a multidisciplinary research team?

As an Associate Scientist I, you may encounter challenges related to coordinating with colleagues from diverse scientific backgrounds, such as chemists, biologists, and data analysts. Balancing multiple project timelines and adapting to rapidly changing research priorities are also common in this collaborative environment. Strong communication and organization skills are vital to ensure smooth information flow and to contribute effectively to team objectives. Additionally, learning to navigate laboratory protocols and meeting stringent quality or regulatory standards can be demanding but rewarding as you gain experience.

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

AspectAssociate Scientist IResearch Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant fieldBachelor's or Master's in relevant field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesLaboratories, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharma, academiaBiotech, pharma, academia
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between Associate Scientist I and Research Associate lies in job responsibilities and career progression. Associate Scientist I typically involves more independent research tasks and project contributions, while Research Associate roles often focus on supporting experiments and data collection. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are used across biotech, pharmaceutical, and academic settings. Understanding these distinctions can help candidates choose the right position aligned with their experience and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist I jobs in California?

The most popular types of Scientist I jobs in California are:

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

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

Associate Scientist I jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Scientist I job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% 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 I

Orion Group

San Mateo, CA • On-site

$36 - $40/hr

Contractor

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Associate Scientist I
$36 - $40/hr with medical benefits available at a cost
2 year contract
100% Onsite out of South San Francisco
Normal first shift lab hours, Monday - Friday (occasional weekend requirements to maintain active cell lines)
Orion Project Services and our largest US client are seeking entry level scientists to support cell culture processes on an exciting contract opportunity in South San Francisco! Don't pass on the chance to gain industry experience within a market leading pharmaceutical company.
Job Summary:
The Associate Scientist I will be a member of the CMC Biologics Cell Culture Development group, responsible for providing support for the development of novel biologics and bioprocess innovation projects, performing laboratory maintenance, and executing tasks to support departmental and project goals. The candidate should have experience with standard cell culture, biochemistry, and molecular biology techniques and is expected to clearly communicate scientific rationale, methodology and results in written and oral formats.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Follow established experimental protocols and assess results with supervision
  • Maintain a "can-do" attitude to complete innovative projects while being flexible in work priorities based on business needs
  • Perform routine tasks such as media/buffer preparation, thawing of cryopreserved cells, cell culture passaging, aseptic flask sampling, bioreactor sampling, and cell banking to support ongoing projects
  • Take routine analytical measurements for cell growth, culture gas-content, pH, osmolality, nutrient and metabolite measurements and HPLC analysis of antibody titers
  • Prepare bench top bioreactors and supporting equipment for sterile operation
  • Maintain instrumentation, consumables inventory and general cleanliness of a developmental lab to create a safe, effective and efficient scientific working environment
  • Display effective organization, verbal and written communication skills for effective explanation of experimental results, and adherence to good documentation practices
  • Weekend work to support bioreactor and other vessel sampling and feeding, as required
Qualifications:
Basic:
  • BS in Biological Sciences or Chemical/Biochemical Engineering or related field with 0-3 years of experience
  • Experience with aseptic technique, preferably mammalian cell culture
  • Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation (Vi-Cell, BGA, HPLC and Cedex Bio) and cell culture equipment (biosafety cabinet, incubators, and microscopes)
  • Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Preferred:
  • Experience in bioreactor operation and cell culture media preparation
  • Experience in single use cell culture tools employed in bioprocess development, including but not limited to deep well plates, shake flasks, ambr250 bioreactors, or other stirred tank bioreactors
  • Experience with programming (VBA, Python, Javascript, C++)
  • Understand statistical analysis using software (JMP, SIMCA, Minitab, Design Expert, R) and statistical design of experiments (DOE)
Physical Demands:
  • Capable of pushing heavy containers on wheels
  • Must be comfortable with physical activities of constant standing, walking, and sitting with arm stretching into biosafety cabinets for cell culture work and occasionally lifting 25 lbs

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Orion Group was founded in 1987 and is now one of the largest, independent, international recruitment companies. We have a network of 200 employees working from 24 offices, delivering a range of services - Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Outsourcing Services, Retained Search, Global Workforce Solutions, Completions & Commissioning and Materials Management - across 68 countries. As a global leader in workforce solutions, we recruit personnel across the Engineering & Technical, Office & Commercial, Scientific and Skilled Trades disciplines, for sectors including Oil & Gas, Life Science, Power & Utilities, Constructions & Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Renewables.

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