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Clinical Lab Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Natera

Clinical Lab Associate I

San Carlos, CA · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY Natera is currently seeking a Clinical Laboratory Associate to analyze laboratory ... Responsible for maintaining updated understanding and knowledge of methods performed in the lab

Natera

Clinical Lab Associate I

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$28.80 - $43.22/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Natera is currently seeking a Clinical Laboratory Associate to analyze laboratory ... Recognizes, documents, and escalates protocol deviations in lab to lead/supervisor * Communicates ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20.44/hr

Lab Associate I - Sacramento, CA, Monday to Friday, 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM, with rotational weekends ... clinical laboratory. * Prepares pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed ...

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Clinical Lab Associate information

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$12

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How much do clinical lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab associate in California is $31.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $41.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical lab associate?

Clinical Lab Associates are healthcare professionals who assist in the preparation, processing, and analysis of laboratory specimens. They work under the supervision of laboratory technologists or scientists to ensure tests are conducted accurately and efficiently. Their responsibilities often include specimen collection, data entry, equipment maintenance, and quality control. Clinical Lab Associates play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring patient health by supporting laboratory operations.

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

A Clinical Lab Associate needs a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, usually supported by a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), automated analyzers, and standard laboratory safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate test results, efficient workflow, and compliance with regulatory standards, which are critical to patient care and laboratory operations.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical lab associates, and how can they be managed?

Clinical Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining accuracy under time constraints, and adhering to strict regulatory standards. Effective time management, meticulous attention to detail, and consistent communication with team members are crucial in overcoming these hurdles. Many labs provide ongoing training and support to help staff stay current with best practices and emerging technologies, ensuring that associates can deliver reliable results in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Clinical Lab Associate vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical Lab AssociateMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certification often preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology; certification usually required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, processing, basic testing, data entryPerforming complex tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment
Industry UsageCommonly employed in healthcare settings for sample handlingMore involved in testing procedures and analysis

While both roles support laboratory operations, Clinical Lab Associates typically focus on sample collection and basic processing, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. The choice depends on your education level and desired responsibilities within the lab environment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Clinical Lab Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Clinical Lab Associate job openings:

Clinical Lab Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,745 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Clinical Lab Associate I

Natera

San Carlos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Natera rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Natera is currently seeking a Clinical Laboratory Associate to analyze laboratory specimens following the standard methods and procedures while maintaining equipment and instruments in good operating condition by troubleshooting malfunctions as needed.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assists in testing of patient samples according to standard operating procedure in an efficient manner with little to no errors
  • Responsible for maintaining updated understanding and knowledge of methods performed in the lab
  • Follows GLP (good laboratory practice): maintain cleans and organized work space
  • Completes training and other deadlines on time.
  • Recognizes and escalates equipment malfunctions; troubleshoots common errors on the lab floor
  • Recognizes, documents, and escalates protocol deviations in lab to lead/supervisor
  • Communicates with team and other departments (including via e-mail)
  • Provides feedback on day-to-day schedule and tasks to lead/supervisor
  • Assists teammates in completing daily tasks
  • Conducts himself/herself in a professional manner
  • Adheres to departmental expectations
  • This role works with PHI on a regular basis both in paper and electronic form and have an access to various technologies to access PHI (paper and electronic) in order to perform the job
  • Employee must complete training relating to HIPAA/PHI privacy, General Policies and Procedure Compliance training and security training as soon as possible but not later than the first 30 days of hire.
  • Must maintain a current status on Natera training requirements.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • BS/BA in a biological science or similar field of study
  • 0-2 years of industry-related experience
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, computer, and pipetting skills
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Word processing and data management
  • Duties may require working various shifts, weekends, and/or overtime

Must be able to discern color visually [or be able to evaluate cellular morphology when applicable] and pass applicable screening assessment

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