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Cdc Laboratory Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Cdc Laboratory information

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How much do cdc laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cdc laboratory in California is $22.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CDC laboratory?

A CDC Laboratory is a specialized facility operated or overseen by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dedicated to public health research, disease detection, and outbreak response. These labs conduct testing for infectious diseases, analyze biological samples, and develop new diagnostic methods to protect public health. Their work is crucial in monitoring, preventing, and controlling the spread of diseases both in the United States and globally.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CDC laboratory scientist?

To thrive as a CDC Laboratory Scientist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, or a related science, along with a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), PCR, and other diagnostic tools, as well as safety certifications like biosafety training, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurate results and collaboration. These competencies ensure the reliability of public health testing, support outbreak response, and uphold safety standards in high-stakes environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a CDC laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a CDC laboratory often encounter challenges such as handling high-stakes infectious agents, adhering to strict safety protocols, and managing time-sensitive testing during public health emergencies. Addressing these challenges involves maintaining rigorous compliance with biosafety guidelines, participating in ongoing training, and fostering open communication within multidisciplinary teams. Proactively seeking mentorship and collaborating with colleagues can also help navigate complex diagnostic scenarios and contribute to continuous learning and professional growth.

What is the difference between Cdc Laboratory vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectCdc LaboratoryMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training in public health and CDC-specific protocolsRequires an associate degree in medical laboratory technology and certification
Work EnvironmentPublic health labs, research facilities, disease control settingsHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Industry UsagePublic health, disease surveillance, outbreak investigationClinical diagnostics, patient sample analysis

The main difference is that Cdc Laboratory roles focus on public health, disease control, and research, often requiring specialized CDC training, while Medical Laboratory Technicians work primarily in clinical settings performing diagnostic tests on patient samples. Both roles require laboratory skills but serve different purposes within the healthcare and public health sectors.

How to become a CDC Laboratory scientist?

To become a CDC Laboratory scientist, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, microbiology, or chemistry, along with laboratory experience. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree, relevant certifications, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

What job categories do people searching Cdc Laboratory jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cdc Laboratory jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Cdc Laboratory job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,250 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Director, Laboratory Animal Medicine

RPM ReSearch

West Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$200K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee routine and specialized veterinary medical support for all animal species.

  • Develop, review, revise, and implement SOPs, policies, and training manuals related to animal care.

  • Lead in the care and resolution of complex medical cases.


Job description

Director of Veterinary Services, Sacramento


Position: Director of Veterinary Services


Location: Sacramento, CA


Type: Full-time (40 hours/week)


Compensation: $200,000 - $230,000


Remote Type: On-site


Summary

We are seeking a dedicated Director of Veterinary Services to ensure top-tier veterinary care and environmental enrichment for our laboratory animals. This role involves overseeing daily animal care, disease prevention, health surveillance, diagnoses, treatment, surgery, and humane euthanasia, all while complying with current regulatory and veterinary practices. The Director will also provide leadership in complex medical cases and contribute to the development of departmental SOPs, training manuals, and policies.


About the Site

Our Sacramento site, originally a CDC quarantine facility, has evolved into a center of excellence for discovery-phase biopharmaceutical studies. Specializing in non-human primates (NHPs) for non-GLP general therapy, early discovery studies, and model development, we offer a flexible and dynamic work environment. With a close-knit team of 35 employees, you'll enjoy a friendly atmosphere and direct access to senior management. Despite our smaller size, we are part of a network of four large animal research facilities nationwide, providing ample opportunities for collaboration and scientific expertise.


About the Role


As the Director of Veterinary Services, you will:


  • Oversee routine and specialized veterinary medical support for all animal species.
  • Manage daily environmental enrichment programs.
  • Allocate staff and resources to meet study objectives.
  • Direct departmental resources, personnel, and budget proposals.
  • Ensure availability of personnel, resources, facilities, equipment, materials, and methodologies.
  • Develop, review, revise, and implement SOPs, policies, and training manuals related to animal care.
  • Lead in the care and resolution of complex medical cases.
  • Design and implement animal welfare and preventive medicine programs.
  • Provide training and supervision of staff on technical procedures and humane animal use.
  • Offer procedural consultations for clients, study directors, and staff.
  • Participate in the Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee (IACUC).
  • Provide leadership in animal regulatory law.
  • Generate necessary reports for departmental and regulatory requirements.
  • Consult on animal selection for research based on species knowledge and research techniques.
  • Communicate performance expectations to staff and establish performance standards.
  • Manage the DEA Controlled Substances program.
  • Act as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies.
  • Serve as the attending veterinarian as needed.
  • Perform bi-annual SOP reviews and other regulatory compliance reviews.
  • Advise study directors on study design and protocol specifics.
  • Aid in maintaining and developing animal records systems.
  • Provide expertise for health and safety, emergency response, and occupational health programs.
  • Supervise and mentor employees, addressing complaints and conflict resolution.


What You’ll Need to Succeed


  • Education: DVM or equivalent.


Experience:

  • 10+ years of laboratory animal practice with increasing responsibility.
  • 5+ years of supervisory experience.


Licensing: Practicing veterinary license and eligibility for California state licensure.


Certification: Board Certification by the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine or equivalent.


Skills:

  • Strong team-building and employee coaching.
  • Effective communication with all employee levels.
  • Change management skills.


Benefits

  • Continuing education support, including study materials and exam cost reimbursement.
  • Flexible study time.
  • Full medical, dental, and 401k benefits.
  • Travel to industry conferences.
  • Relocation assistance.