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Biotech Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Debut Biotech

Research Associate, Fermentation

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21 - $26.44/hr

Our hybrid biotechnology approaches unlock latent markets, providing access to sustainably produced ... Research Associate, Fermentation Summary Debut Biotechnology is seeking a Research Associate to aid ...

Debut Biotech

Research Associate, Fermentation

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21 - $26.44/hr

Our hybrid biotechnology approaches unlock latent markets, providing access to sustainably produced ... Research Associate, Fermentation Summary Debut Biotechnology is seeking a Research Associate to aid ...

Stealth-stage biotech

Research Associate

San Diego, CA · On-site

Research Associate - Vivarium Operations Company Institutionally backed, stealth-stage biotech company focused on neuroscience and the development of novel therapeutics. Position Summary We are ...

System One

Manufacturing Associate

Novato, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Onsite Hours: 6pm- 7am, Alternating Sat and Sun-Tues Overview Leading biotechnology company looking for an experienced Manufacturing Associate. Ideal candidates should have Bachelor's degree in ...

System One

Manufacturing Associate

Novato, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Thursday - Saturday with Alternating Wednesdays (6am to 7pm) / Rotating 12hour shift Overview Leading biotechnology company looking for an experienced Manufacturing Associate. Ideal candidates should ...

System One

Manufacturing Associate

Novato, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Onsite Hours: 6pm- 7am, Alternating Sat and Sun-Tues Overview Leading biotechnology company looking for an experienced Manufacturing Associate. Ideal candidates should have Bachelor's degree in ...

System One

Manufacturing Associate

Novato, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Onsite Hours: 6pm- 7am, Alternating Sat and Sun-Tues Overview Leading biotechnology company looking for an experienced Manufacturing Associate. Ideal candidates should have Bachelor's degree in ...

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All JobsBiotech Associate JobsBiotech Associate Jobs in California

Biotech Associate information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do biotech associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for biotech associate 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 is a biotech associate?

Biotech Associates are professionals who support scientific research, development, and production in biotechnology companies or laboratories. They typically assist in conducting experiments, analyzing data, preparing samples, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Their work helps develop new products or processes in areas like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science. Biotech Associates often have a background in biology, chemistry, or related fields and work under the supervision of scientists or senior researchers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biotech associate?

To thrive as a Biotech Associate, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or a related field, usually supported by a bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and compliance with regulatory standards like GLP or GMP is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These skills ensure accurate experimental results, regulatory compliance, and efficient collaboration in fast-paced research environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by biotech associates when working in a laboratory setting?

Biotech Associates often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex experiments, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Working with sensitive biological materials requires attention to detail and the ability to quickly adapt to unexpected results or equipment malfunctions. Collaboration with scientists and cross-functional teams is frequent, so strong communication skills are essential to ensure experiments are aligned with broader research goals.

What is the difference between Biotech Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiotech AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, biotech, or related field; some roles may require experienceAssociate's degree or relevant certification; less emphasis on advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firmsAcademic labs, industrial labs, healthcare facilities
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, research institutionsHospitals, research labs, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Biotech Associate and a Laboratory Technician lies in their educational requirements and work scope. Biotech Associates typically hold a bachelor's degree and engage in research and development activities within biotech companies or research institutions. Laboratory Technicians often have an associate's degree and focus on routine lab tasks, testing, and sample processing. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

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

The most popular types of Biotech jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Biotech Associate jobs in California?

For Biotech Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Biotech Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Biotech Associate jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Biotech Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Biotech Associate job openings:

Biotech Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biotech Associate 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 $40,786 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Research Associate, Fermentation

Debut Biotech

San Diego, CA • On-site

$21 - $26.44/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

About Debut
Debut is the unconventional innovation lab spearheading the next generation of big business. Only Debut has a scalable, integrated, climate-positive creation model powered by biotechnology that puts human wellbeing at the center of everything we do-setting the new standard for profitable business and a new pace for an ever-changing world. Our hybrid biotechnology approaches unlock latent markets, providing access to sustainably produced, natural ingredients with health benefits that cannot be obtained through other methods. We are committed to traversing the entire process, from ingredient discovery to the scaling of these products, for consumer markets. If you are passionate, enjoy fast-paced innovation and collaborative teams, then Debut is for you.
Research Associate, Fermentation
Summary
Debut Biotechnology is seeking a Research Associate to aid in microbial fermentation processes for small molecule production. This individual should be versed in fermentation science and have a basic understanding of microbial physiology, secondary metabolism, and biosynthetic pathways. The ideal candidate would be an energetic, adaptive, creative, and highly self-motivated individual who enjoys undertaking complex challenges both individually and as part of a team. The successful candidate will interact closely with molecular biologists, chemists, and engineers and will be directly responsible for bench-scale bioreactor operation and small molecule product analysis. Excellent interpersonal and communications skills are essential due to the highly collaborative nature of the position.
Essential Functions
  • Design and execution of fermentation experiments across multiple volumes
  • Optimization of fermentation operations by controlling numerous parameters
  • Maintenance of bench-scale bioreactors
  • Preparation of media, buffers, and chemical solutions
  • Product sampling and chemical/microbiological analysis
  • Bioreactor and laboratory material cleaning and sterilization
  • Data processing and statistical analysis to maximize understanding of strain performance
  • High throughput experiment optimization across multiple reaction volumes
  • Evening/nights and weekend work may be required on occasions

Education and Experience
Required:
  • Bachelor's Degree; OR Associate's Degree + 2 years of experience; OR HS Diploma/GED + 4 years of experience
  • Attention to detail and meticulous record keeping
  • Intermediate/advanced Excel skills
  • Ability to work well in a fast-paced environment and balance multiple projects

Preferred:
  • Experience with small molecule fermentation via genetically engineered organisms is a plus
  • Experience applying molecular biology techniques is a plus
  • Experience using statistical software to analyze large datasets is a plus
  • Experience understanding and running advanced experimental designs is a plus
  • Experience interpreting fermentation's product and byproduct results is a plus

Essential Physical Characteristics
The physical characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.
  • Continuous upward and downward flexion of the neck.
  • Frequent: sitting, repetitive use of hands to operate computers, printers and copiers.
  • Frequently uses hands to feel objects or control tools (e.g. pipetting). Laboratory operations require dexterity and care to perform studies as required.
  • Occasional: walking, standing, climbing stairs, bending and twisting of neck, bending and twisting of waist, squatting, simple grasping, reaching above and below shoulder level, and occasional lifting and carrying of files or material weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be willing to work with biohazardous agents (up to BSL2).
  • The R&D laboratory will result in exposure to hot and cold temperatures, noise, fumes, limited dust, and oily coolants.
  • The performance of this position will present exposure to an industrial environment and requires support and compliance with the published Company PPE policy including but not limited to the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses with side shields, appropriate attire, safety shoes, hard hat, hearing protection, etc.

Condition of Employment
As part of Debut's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check prior to beginning employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position.
Debut is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
Pay Range: $21.00 - $26.44 / hourly

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