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Clinical Lab Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Personalis, Inc

Clinical Lab Associate 1 (Temp)

Fremont, CA · On-site

$27.50 - $34.60/hr

We are looking for a Temporary Clinical Lab Associate to join for an expected duration of 6 months, with a possibility for extension or conversion, Responsibilities: * Perform nucleic acid extraction ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$20.44/hr

Lab Associate I - San Juan Capistrano, CA, Monday to Friday, 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM Department - Spec Chem - LCMSMS - Clinical Laboratory Pay range: $20.44 - $26.32 / hour Salary offers are based on a ...

IQVIA

Lab Associate Immunology

Valencia, CA

$35K - $74K/yr

We are seeking Lab Associate - Immunology to join IQVIA Laboratories at Valencia, CA. We hire ... IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and health ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$20.44/hr

Lab Associate I - San Juan Capistrano, CA, Tuesday to Saturday, 6:00 PM to 2:30 AM Department - Spec Chem - LCMSMS - Clinical Laboratory Pay range: $20.44 - $26.32 / hour; employee may be eligible to ...

Quest Diagnostics

Lab Associate I

West Hills, CA · On-site

$20.44/hr

Lab Associate I - West Hills, CA, Monday to Friday, 1:00 PM to 9:30 PM, with rotational weekends ... clinical laboratory. * Prepares pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed ...

IQVIA

Lab Associate Immunology

Valencia, CA

$35K - $74K/yr

We are seeking Lab Associate - Immunology to join IQVIA Laboratories at Valencia, CA. We hire ... IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and health ...

IQVIA, Inc.

Lab Associate Immunology

Valencia, CA · On-site

$35K - $74K/yr

We are seeking Lab Associate - Immunology to join IQVIA Laboratories at Valencia, CA. We hire ... IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and health ...

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All JobsClinical Lab Associate JobsClinical Lab Associate Jobs in California

Clinical Lab Associate information

See California salary details

$12

$31

$54

How much do clinical lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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?

A clinical lab associate is a healthcare professional responsible for performing laboratory tests on patient samples to assist in diagnosis and treatment. They typically handle specimen processing, operate laboratory equipment, and follow safety protocols, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of laboratory procedures.

Where do CLS get paid the most?

Clinical Lab Associates tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare industries, such as major metropolitan areas. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the size of the employer, with larger hospitals and private labs often offering higher pay.

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 are Clinical Lab Associates?

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, and why are they important?

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a clinical lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate degree or certification in clinical laboratory science. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and knowledge of safety protocols. Certification or training may be required depending on the specific role and employer.

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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

A clinical lab associate or lab assistant typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often working in hospital or diagnostic laboratory settings.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,745 per year, or $31.1 per hour.
Clinical Lab Associate (Accessioner)

Clinical Lab Associate (Accessioner)

Exagen Inc.

Vista, CA

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Exagen is a patient-focused and discovery-driven life sciences company dedicated to transforming the care continuum for patients suffering from debilitating and chronic autoimmune diseases. Our goal is to enable rheumatologists to improve care for patients through the differential diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of complex autoimmune and autoimmune-related diseases, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. By leveraging our proprietary Cell-Bound Complement Activation Products, or CB-CAPs, technology, we help get to the real cause of a patient’s symptoms and guide their journey to improved health.

The Laboratory Associate (Accessioner I) is responsible for receiving, accessioning, aliquoting and data entry of information for laboratory samples to be tested, per the established guidelines.


Note: Other duties may be assigned.

  • Unpack and verify aspects of incoming samples and paperwork
  • Perform accessioning and accurate data entry of samples, utilizing the Laboratory Information System
  • Manage freezer sample storage
  • Assist with other pre-analytical activities as needed
  • Perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment and maintain temperature logs
  • Follow all procedures (SOPs) required to perform the above-mentioned tasks
  • Follow all safety policies and procedures
  • Communicate effectively with internal personnel

Pre-analytical activities:

  • Washing red blood cells and freezing them (for MTX assays)
  • Centrifuging samples and preparing aliquots of the same operating the Beckman Coulter AutoMate 2550
  • Reagent Preparation

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma required; Bachelor’s/Associate’s degree or college courses in Science
    preferred

Other Qualifications:

  • Ability to work Tuesday to Saturday (full time) and requires the ability to work a flexible schedule and overtime hours as needed.
  • Must be able to use general office equipment including computer, telephone, copier, etc.
  • Good organizational and interpersonal skills.
  • Prior experience in biobanking and sample management, including freezer storage and retrieval.
  • Bachelor’s/associate degree or college courses in Science preferred
  • Date entry experience in a laboratory setting preferred.

Pay Range: $22/hr - $24/hr

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