ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Caltech Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Caltech

Laboratory Technician

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

The KNI Lab houses more than 30 pieces of advanced instrumentation for lithography, deposition, etching, microscopy, and photolithography, and serves 100+ researchers from Caltech and external ...

Caltech

Senior Applications Developer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

... Caltech. These systems include but are not limited to, Oracle E-business Suite, Oracle Analytics Cloud (OAC), data warehouse tools, Assetworks AiM, Huron Research Suite, SciQuest, Ellucian Advance ...

Caltech

Campus Custodial Lead

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary Under the supervision of a Custodial Supervisor, leads a team of custodians in a research environment. Assist the supervisor in ...

Caltech

Financial Analyst

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... Research and resolve complex payment, tax withholding, system interface, and supplier-related ...

Virtualitics, Inc

Data Scientist

Washington, DC · On-site +1

Founded on a decade of Caltech research in partnership with NASA/JPL, we are led by scientists, strategists, and servicemembers united by a single mission: to solve the world's most complex, mission ...

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Contracts Manager IV

Campus, IL · On-site

$86K - $116K/yr

Ensure adherence to Caltech/JPL policies and federal regulations. Conduct rigorous reviews of ... Excellence in analytical and research skills, working knowledge of financial applications, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCaltech Research Jobs

Caltech Research information

How much do Caltech research assistants make?

Caltech research assistants typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience and the specific department. The position often requires familiarity with laboratory tools and data analysis software, and may be part-time or full-time during academic terms.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Caltech Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Caltech Researcher, you generally need an advanced degree (such as a PhD), strong analytical skills, and a solid background in your scientific or engineering discipline. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python), and research publication systems is essential. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication skills help researchers excel in dynamic, multidisciplinary environments. These competencies are crucial for producing innovative research, publishing impactful findings, and contributing to Caltech's reputation for scientific excellence.

How do Caltech research positions typically foster collaboration across disciplines?

Caltech research roles are known for their highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. Researchers often work closely with faculty, postdocs, and students from different departments—such as physics, engineering, biology, and chemistry—to tackle complex scientific questions. This structure encourages frequent cross-departmental meetings, shared lab resources, and joint projects, providing a unique opportunity to broaden your expertise and contribute to innovative solutions. As a result, team members regularly develop both their technical and communication skills while building a strong professional network.

What is more prestigious, MIT or Caltech?

Both MIT and Caltech are highly prestigious institutions known for their strong emphasis on science and engineering research. MIT is larger with a broader range of programs and extensive industry connections, while Caltech is smaller with a focus on fundamental research and innovation. The perceived prestige depends on the specific field and individual preferences, but both are considered top-tier in academia and research environments.

What is the difference between Caltech Research vs Caltech Research Assistant?

AspectCaltech ResearchCaltech Research Assistant
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in relevant field, specialized research experienceBachelor's degree, some research experience preferred
Work EnvironmentIndependent research, collaboration with faculty and scientistsSupportive role, assisting senior researchers and labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, academia, scientific labsAcademic labs, research centers, university departments
Common Search & ComparisonHigher-level research roles, specialized expertiseEntry-level research support, assisting ongoing projects

Caltech Research positions typically require advanced degrees and involve independent research, while Caltech Research Assistants support research activities under supervision. The former focuses on conducting experiments and publishing findings, whereas the latter provides essential assistance to research teams. Both roles are integral to scientific progress but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How much do Caltech PhDs make?

Caltech PhDs working in research or academia typically earn salaries ranging from $70,000 to over $150,000 annually, depending on the field, experience, and position. Postdoctoral researchers often earn between $50,000 and $70,000, while faculty members and senior researchers can earn higher salaries with additional benefits and research funding.

How much do Caltech researchers make?

Caltech researchers' salaries vary depending on the position, experience, and funding source. Postdoctoral researchers typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, while faculty and senior researchers can earn significantly higher, often exceeding $100,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What is a Caltech research position?

A Caltech research position typically refers to a role at the California Institute of Technology that involves conducting scientific or engineering investigations, experiments, or studies. These positions can range from undergraduate research assistants to postdoctoral scholars and faculty researchers. They often involve working closely with faculty members in a specific field, such as physics, biology, engineering, or chemistry. Caltech research positions are renowned for their focus on innovation, rigorous methodology, and contributions to groundbreaking discoveries. Individuals in these roles are expected to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their discipline.
More about Caltech Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Caltech Research jobs? Cities with the most Caltech Research job openings:
What states have the most Caltech Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Caltech Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Caltech Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Caltech Research jobs are:
Caltech Research jobs near you
Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician

Caltech

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.
Job Summary
The Kavli Nanoscience Institute (KNI) at Caltech is seeking a part-time Laboratory Technician to support the day-to-day technical maintenance and operations of its 7,500 sq. ft. cleanroom facility and affiliated lab spaces. The KNI Lab houses more than 30 pieces of advanced instrumentation for lithography, deposition, etching, microscopy, and photolithography, and serves 100+ researchers from Caltech and external academic, government, and industrial institutions.
Working under the direct supervision of KNI's senior technical staff, the part-time Laboratory Technician will provide hands-on support for tool maintenance, preventative maintenance routines, and general laboratory upkeep. The ideal candidate has a tinkerer's mindset - someone who enjoys diagnosing problems, getting into the details of how equipment works, and taking initiative to keep things running smoothly.
This role is well-suited to someone who thrives in a hands-on, technically demanding environment and wants to grow their skills alongside experienced engineers in a world-class nanofabrication cleanroom facility. This is a part-time position (20 hours per week).
Essential Job Duties
  • Assist KNI technical staff with preventative maintenance and routine upkeep of nanofabrication equipment, including material etching and deposition systems, lithographic tools, and electron microscopes.
  • Service and inspect vacuum systems, mechanical components, chillers, and other equipment subsystems to ensure proper working conditions.
  • Support maintenance of laboratory infrastructure, including electrical, gas, and water/coolant lines that connect to equipment.
  • Perform scheduled maintenance tasks and checklists as directed by senior technical staff, and document all maintenance activities accurately and promptly.
  • Assist in diagnosing and troubleshooting equipment problems; help implement repairs and document solutions for future reference.
  • Contribute to creating and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and troubleshooting guides for equipment in the KNI.
  • Maintain stock levels and inventory of laboratory supplies (e.g., solvents, wet etchants, PPE, cleanroom garments, general consumables) and assist with restocking as needed.
  • Support cleanliness and organization of general lab and support tools, including manual cleaning, routine lab walkthroughs, and quality control checks.
  • Assist with the installation and commissioning of new equipment and help establish associated maintenance protocols.
  • Communicate progress, issues, and completed tasks to supervisors in a timely manner via email, written reports, or in-person updates.
  • Adhere to all KNI safety protocols and cleanroom gowning requirements at all times; promote a culture of lab safety.
  • Support other operational projects and tasks as needed.
Basic Qualifications
  • Associate's degree (A.A. or A.S.) or higher in engineering or a related field; OR at least 6 months of hands-on experience working in a cleanroom, fabrication facility, or related technical environment.
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and a "tinkerer's" mindset - curiosity about how equipment works, comfort with hands-on tasks, and enjoyment of troubleshooting.
  • Strong attention to detail and good organizational skills, including the ability to maintain accurate records and logs.
  • Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently with minimal supervision while also functioning effectively as part of a team.
  • Strong communication skills - able to clearly convey status updates, flag problems promptly, and collaborate with colleagues of diverse backgrounds and skill levels.
  • Must be able to work in a cleanroom setting following all established protocols for gowning and safety.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift 30 lbs.
  • Must be reliable and punctual; able to maintain a consistent 20-hour-per-week schedule.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with vacuum systems, roughing or turbo pumps, or vacuum troubleshooting.
  • Experience with chillers, cooling systems, or fluid handling in a lab or industrial setting.
  • Familiarity with mechanical components such as O-rings, fittings, flanges, or basic plumbing.
  • 6 months of cleanroom experience.
  • Experience maintaining logs or records in a laboratory or industrial environment.
  • Proficiency with basic software tools: Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Basic computer maintenance and troubleshooting skills (e.g., hardware installs, networking, data backup).
Required Documents
  • Resume
  • A brief cover letter or statement of interest is optional, but preferred

Hiring Range
$19.00 to $25.75 per hour
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.
Disability Accommodations
Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.
If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.
Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.

Apply