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Biotechnology Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lab Support Specialist

Novato, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotech, or a related field is preferred * Experience ... Effective communication and teamwork in a lab environment * Laboratory equipment maintenance and ...

Lab Support Specialist

Novato, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotech, or a related field is preferred * Experience ... Effective communication and teamwork in a lab environment * Laboratory equipment maintenance and ...

Lab Support Specialist

Novato, CA

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotech, or a related field is preferred * Experience ... Effective communication and teamwork in a lab environment * Laboratory equipment maintenance and ...

QC Lab Tech II

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$55K - $72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Maintain "0" OSHA recordable goal in Lab. * Participate and supportin ad-hoc projects or other ... High School Degree with 2+ years of experience in pharmaceutical / biotechnology or similar ...

Lab Support Specialist

Novato, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotech, or a related field is preferred * Experience ... Effective communication and teamwork in a lab environment * Laboratory equipment maintenance and ...

Master's in Chemical Engineering, Life Sciences or Biotechnology, or Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering, Life Sciences or Biotechnology with 2+ years of relevant cell culture lab experience * Ability ...

Facilities and Lab Operations Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... biotech or research setting, with practical experience for safety, compliance, and vendor ... Own day-to-day facility and lab operations-Serve as the primary point of contact for building ...

Facilities and Lab Operations Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... biotech or research setting, with practical experience for safety, compliance, and vendor ... Own day-to-day facility and lab operations--Serve as the primary point of contact for building ...

Facilities and Lab Operations Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... biotech or research setting, with practical experience for safety, compliance, and vendor ... Own day-to-day facility and lab operations-Serve as the primary point of contact for building ...

Compound Pharmacy Technician

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Summary Our client is seeking a Compound Pharmacy Technician to support pharmaceutical compounding operations in a controlled cleanroom environment. This role is ideal for someone with prior sterile ...

Lab Technician 1

Poway, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Lab Technician 1 Where Precision Meets Purpose in Every Batch Why This Role Matters Every product ... S. degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or a ...

Showing results 41-60

Biotechnology Lab information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do biotechnology lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for biotechnology lab in California is $24.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Biotechnology Lab vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiotechnology LabLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBiotech degree or related certificationAssociate degree or certification in lab techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firmsHospitals, research facilities, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech firms, research institutionsHealthcare, manufacturing, research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding biotech research rolesLab work in various industries

Biotechnology Lab roles focus on conducting research and experiments in biotech settings, often requiring specialized degrees. Laboratory Technicians perform routine lab tasks across various industries, including healthcare and manufacturing, with generally less specialized education. Both roles involve lab work but differ in scope, environment, and credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a biotechnology lab, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Biotechnology Lab, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, usually supported by a relevant degree in biotechnology or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as PCR machines, spectrophotometers, and data analysis software, along with safety certifications, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, maintain safety standards, and support innovative research in a collaborative environment.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a biotechnology lab, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in biotechnology labs often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting experimental protocols, maintaining strict contamination control, and adapting to rapidly changing technology. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with teammates. Staying current with new laboratory methods and being proactive in seeking guidance from more experienced colleagues can also help overcome obstacles and ensure the success of projects.

What is a biotechnology lab?

A biotechnology lab is a specialized facility where scientists and technicians conduct experiments and research involving biological systems, organisms, or derivatives to develop new products or technologies. These labs often focus on areas such as genetics, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science. Biotechnology labs are equipped with advanced tools and equipment to analyze DNA, manipulate cells, and produce biologically-based materials. The work done in these labs contributes to innovations in medicine, food production, and sustainable solutions for industry.

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

The most popular types of Biotechnology Lab jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Biotechnology Lab jobs in California?

For Biotechnology Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Biotechnology Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Lab Support Specialist

Avantor Inc.

Novato, CA • On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Avantor rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

The Opportunity:

In this role, you will report to the Site Supervisor and will work closely with the Avantor's Lab and Production Services professionals to serve our customers by performing customized, mission-based lab work and research protocols that help return time back to science.

Hourly Rate:$28 - $30

Location:Novato, CA

Shift:Monday - Friday, 8 am - 4:30 pm

Benefits:

  • Health and Wellness: Medical, Dental, Vision and Wellness programs (eligible for medical coverage on day 1)
  • Time Off: Paid Time Off (PTO), Company paid holidays, Choice holidays etc.
  • Financial Well Being: Spending Accounts: Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Accounts (HSA), commuter benefits, 401(k), tuition assistance, employee stock purchase plan discount
  • Added Protection Coverage: To include critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident, legal, identity theft protection, pet, auto and home insurance
  • Recognition: Celebrate your peers and earn points to redeem on gifts and products

What we're looking for

  • Education:High School Diploma or GED is required; Associate's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotech, or a related field is preferred
  • Experience: 1+ year of laboratory, manufacturing, research, or laboratory support experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Collaboration Tool:Microsoft Office experience
  • Experience with purification and chromatography systems, especially AKTA, highly preferred.
  • Knowledge of scientific products and services is a plus.
  • Effective communication and teamwork in a lab environment
  • Laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration
  • Buffer and reagent preparation
  • Chromatography techniques (column packing, gradient elution, buffer exchange, endotoxin testing)
  • Operation and troubleshooting of AKTA systems (UNICORN software)
  • Ability to lift, move, push, or pull up to 25 pounds with or without accommodation
  • Regular use of PPE including safety glasses, lab coats, gloves, and other site-required protective equipment
  • Ability to handle laboratory materials, containers, and equipment safely
  • Inventory and supply chain management
  • Laboratory safety and chemical hygiene
  • Data recording and documentation best practices
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills

How you will thrive and create an impact

Avantor's Lab and Production Services team is a crucial part of the Avantor Services group serving over 500 customers in biopharma, pharmaceutical, educational, industrial, and high-tech industries with customizable, flexible solutions and end-to-end laboratory operations support.

In this role you will:

  • Prepare buffers, media, reagents, solvents, and chemical solutions according to approved procedures, scientific protocols, and customer requirements.
  • Perform routine laboratory support activities including weighing materials, pH adjustments, conductivity testing, filtrations, dilutions, and solution preparation.
  • Support scientific operations by preparing materials, equipment, and laboratory workspaces required for research and development activities.
  • Perform routine calibration, verification, cleaning, preventative maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment, including pH meters, conductivity meters, balances, pipettes, sonicators, peristaltic pumps, and other laboratory instrumentation.
  • Execute Clean-in-Place (CIP) procedures, sanitization protocols, preventative maintenance activities, endotoxin testing, and performance verification of AKTA chromatography systems, columns, sample loops, and associated purification equipment.
  • Support AKTA system readiness by preparing maintenance solutions, replacing filters and consumable components, performing equipment cleaning, documenting maintenance activities, and escalating equipment issues when necessary.
  • Monitor, maintain, label, and replenish laboratory inventories including chemicals, reagents, consumables, glassware, maintenance solutions, and compressed gas cylinders.
  • Manage material receipt, storage, distribution, and disposal activities while ensuring compliance with laboratory safety and environmental requirements.
  • Utilize electronic inventory, procurement, and laboratory management systems to support purchasing, material tracking, inventory control, and documentation activities.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records, logbooks, worksheets, inventory databases, and electronic documentation in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Documentation Practices (GDP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and customer requirements.
  • Ensure laboratory readiness through routine housekeeping, glassware processing, equipment organization, stock replenishment, and workspace maintenance.
  • Follow all site safety policies, laboratory procedures, quality standards, and regulatory requirements while promoting a safe and compliant work environment.
  • Provide responsive customer service and operational support to scientists, researchers, and laboratory personnel by addressing service requests and supporting laboratory workflows.
  • Support special projects, continuous improvement initiatives, audits, inspections, and other laboratory operational activities as assigned.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Why Avantor?

Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life-changing science.
The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world. Apply today!

Pay Transparency:

The expected pre-tax pay for this position is

$49,000.00 - $79,350.00

Actual pay may differ depending on relevant factors such as prior experience and geographic location.

EEO Statement:

We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at recruiting@avantorsciences.comand let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please view the Know Your Rights poster.

Privacy Policy:

We will use the personal information that you have submitted to us in order to consider your application for the relevant role.

Your privacy is important to us. Please click here for our Privacy Policy which explains the purposes for which we will use your personal information and the ways in which we will handle and retain your information. It also explains the rights you have in relation to your information, and how to contact us with any queries or requests.

3rd Party Non-Solicitation Policy:

By submitting candidates without having been formally assigned on and contracted for a specific job requisition by Avantor, or by failing to comply with the Avantor recruitment process, you forfeit any fee on the submitted candidates, regardless of your usual terms and conditions. Avantor works with a preferred supplier list and will take the initiative to engage with recruitment agencies based on its needs and will not be accepting any form of solicitation.


What Avantor employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Avantor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Avantor, our ICARE Values are our core set of principles that guide and focus the Company's strategy.: Innovation; customer centric; accountability; respect; excellence! Avantor is committed to creating a fully inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and provides equitable opportunities for all associates to grow and succeed. While setting science in motion our employees can join employee focus groups.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Radnor, PA, US

Year founded

1904

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