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Cannabis Lab Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment * Promote and enforce a strong culture ...

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology. * EAS ...

Microbiology Lab Tech

Turlock, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology. * EAS ...

Preferably one year food processing quality lab experience Skills and Abilities: Must have excellent oral and written communication skills. Possess the ability to convey technical applications to non ...

Preferably one year food processing quality lab experience Skills and Abilities: Must have excellent oral and written communication skills. Possess the ability to convey technical applications to non ...

Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment * Promote and enforce a strong culture of safety Operations & Workflow Management * Lead daily operational huddles to align on priorities ...

Microbiology Lab Tech

Turlock, CA

$21 - $26.25/hr

We are currently looking for a Microbiology Technician to join our growing team! JOB SUMMARY Prepare samples for analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and ...

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Cannabis Lab information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$26

$47

How much do cannabis lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for cannabis lab in Merced, CA is $26.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cannabis lab?

Cannabis labs are specialized facilities that test cannabis products for quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. They analyze samples for potency (levels of THC, CBD, etc.), contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, mold, and residual solvents. These labs play a crucial role in ensuring that cannabis products are safe for consumption and accurately labeled. Their work supports both public health and the legal cannabis industry by providing reliable, science-based results.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a professional working in a cannabis lab?

Professionals in a cannabis lab are responsible for preparing and analyzing cannabis samples using specialized equipment such as gas or liquid chromatography instruments. Their daily tasks include following strict safety protocols, accurately documenting test results, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Collaboration with quality assurance teams and scientists is common to ensure product safety and consistency. The work environment is detail-oriented and often fast-paced, requiring strong organizational and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cannabis lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cannabis Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of chemistry, laboratory procedures, and quality control, typically backed by a degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments like HPLC, GC-MS, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS), as well as relevant certifications in laboratory safety, are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills help technicians ensure accuracy and maintain compliance. These competencies are crucial for delivering reliable test results and meeting regulatory standards in the rapidly growing cannabis industry.

What is the difference between Cannabis Lab vs Cannabis Technician?

AspectCannabis LabCannabis Technician
CredentialsLaboratory certifications, scientific degreesBasic certifications, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, testing facilitiesCultivation sites, processing facilities
Industry UsageQuality testing, compliance, researchPlant care, harvesting, processing

The Cannabis Lab primarily focuses on testing and research within controlled laboratory settings, requiring scientific credentials. In contrast, a Cannabis Technician works directly with plant cultivation and processing, often with on-the-job training. Both roles are essential in the cannabis industry but serve different functions and environments.

Is it hard to get a job in cannabis?

Getting a job in the cannabis industry can be competitive, especially for roles such as cannabis lab technicians or cultivation specialists, which often require relevant knowledge of testing procedures, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications. Entry-level positions may be easier to obtain, but higher-skilled roles typically demand experience and industry-specific training.

What are popular job titles related to Cannabis Lab jobs in Merced, CA?

For Cannabis Lab jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cannabis Lab jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Cannabis Lab jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Cannabis Lab jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Cannabis Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Cannabis Lab job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,459 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Microbiology Lab Supervisor

Certified Group

Turlock, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise – So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.

Our Brands

Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:

  • Certified Laboratories – Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
  • Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) – A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.
  • Labstat – A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
  • EAS Consulting Group – A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
  • FSNS Certification & Audit – Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.
Job Summary:

The Laboratory Services Supervisor provides frontline leadership and oversees the daily execution of laboratory operations. This hands-on role ensures accurate, compliant, and timely testing across assigned disciplines such as Microbiology, Chemistry, Sample Intake, and Media Preparation.

You will lead a team of laboratory technicians while driving workflow efficiency, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring a safe, productive work environment. This role is critical to delivering consistent results aligned with productivity, quality, customer service, and safety expectations.

Our Purpose & Values

Purpose: So the world can trust in what it consumes.
Mission: Partner with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise.

Values:

  • Put the customer first
  • Commit to safety and quality
  • Drive to deliver
  • Act with integrity
  • Support the team
Responsibilities:

Quality, Safety & Technical Excellence

  • Ensure adherence to SOPs, ISO 17025 standards, GLP, and regulatory requirements
  • Maintain data integrity, accurate testing, and proper documentation
  • Coach team members on quality control and laboratory best practices
  • Prepare the laboratory and staff for internal and external audits
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment
  • Promote and enforce a strong culture of safety

Operations & Workflow Management

  • Lead daily operational huddles to align on priorities, staffing, and workflow
  • Manage sample tracking, data entry, and reporting through LIMS
  • Allocate staffing based on testing volume and priorities
  • Identify and drive process improvements to increase efficiency and throughput
  • Maintain performance in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

People Leadership & Development

  • Supervise and develop a team of laboratory technicians
  • Foster a high-performance, accountable, and engaging team culture
  • Conduct performance reviews and regular 1:1 coaching conversations
  • Support employee growth through training and career development
  • Manage staffing plans, scheduling, and workforce planning
  • Drive retention through engagement and development initiatives

Customer Focus

  • Ensure timely and accurate reporting of results
  • Escalate out-of-specification results appropriately
  • Support resolution of client inquiries and concerns
  • Maintain professionalism in all customer interactions
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or the biological sciences required
  • Minimum 3 years of experience leading an hourly workforce in an operations environment
  • Experience in commercial laboratory testing or manufacturing preferred (e.g., food, cosmetics, tobacco)
  • Strong understanding of quality and safety standards
  • Ability to interpret technical and regulatory documents
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Experience working in fast-paced, dynamic environments
Technical & Analytical Skills
  • Working knowledge of statistical concepts and data interpretation
  • Ability to apply mathematical concepts such as percentages, ratios, and proportions
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Exposure to laboratory conditions including chemicals, biological materials, and varying noise levels
  • Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods
  • May occasionally lift up to 50 pounds
  • Schedule may include nights and weekends based on business needs

Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday 3:00pm-11:30pm 

The compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role, based on the selected compensation structure and applicable guidelines. Actual pay within this range may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic location. Additional components of total rewards—such as bonuses, benefits, or incentives—may also apply where applicable.

 
Salary Range for Pay Transparency
$80,000—$90,000 USD

By applying, you acknowledge that Certified Group will process your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Policy. California residents may review additional information about how we collect and use personal information, including retention and rights, in our California Notice at Collection. To view our Privacy Policy, click the link here: Certified Group Privacy Policy

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.