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Clinical Lab Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Lab Associate I

Arcadia, CA · On-site

$20.44/hr

Lab Associate I - Arcadia, CA, Monday to Friday, 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM, with rotational weekends Pay ... clinical laboratory. * Prepares pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

We are seeking a Laboratory Associate- Flow Cytometry to join IQVIA's laboratory business at ... IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and health ...

We are seekinga Laboratory Associate- Flow Cytometry to join IQVIA's laboratory business at ... IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and health ...

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Clinical Lab Associate information

See California salary details

$12

$31

$54

How much do clinical lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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 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 is the movie clinical about?

There is no widely known movie titled 'Clinical.' If referring to a film with a similar name, it may involve themes related to medical or clinical settings. For a Clinical Lab Associate, understanding medical or clinical topics can be relevant, but the question appears unrelated to the job role.

What do we mean by clinical?

In the context of a Clinical Lab Associate role, 'clinical' refers to activities related to patient health and medical testing. It involves handling biological samples, performing laboratory tests, and supporting diagnostic processes in healthcare settings.

What does very clinical mean?

In the context of a Clinical Lab Associate, 'very clinical' typically refers to a work environment that is highly focused on medical testing, laboratory procedures, and adherence to strict safety and quality standards. It emphasizes precision, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and protocols.

What does it mean for someone to be clinical?

Being clinical generally refers to working in a healthcare or laboratory setting involving patient care, diagnostics, or medical testing. For a Clinical Lab Associate, it means handling laboratory tests, analyzing samples, and following strict safety and procedural protocols in a clinical 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 cities in California are hiring for Clinical Lab Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Clinical Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Associate job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,745 per year, or $31.1 per hour.
Lab Associate II - Lab Support

Lab Associate II - Lab Support

Quest Diagnostics

San Juan Capistrano, CA • On-site

$22.48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


ExamOne rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Job Description
Lab Associate II
Location: San Juan Capistrano, CA
Work Schedule: Friday to Tuesday, 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM
Department: Support Testing
Pay range: $22.48 - $28.94 / hour
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits Information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
• Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
• Best-in-class well-being programs
• Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
• healthyMINDS mental health program
• Vacation and Health/Flex Time
• 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
• FinFit financial coaching and services
• 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Annual incentive plans
• Matching gifts program
• Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
• Career advancement opportunities
• and so much more!
This non-licensed position is accountable for assisting with general support for the laboratory, following all applicable policies and procedures.
Responsibilities
  • Prepares and organizes samples for testing, for example, sample racking, aliquoting and tube preparation.
  • Responsible for labeling, handling, processing or preparation, and transportation and storage of specimens.
  • Identifies sample problems and assists in resolving appropriately. Demonstrates problem solving ability on service and production issues.
  • Prepares testing equipment and assists with preventive maintenance. Notifies appropriate technical staff of equipment problems.
  • Assists licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA) in the pre-analytic and post- analytic testing activities, other than trainees, in a licensed clinical laboratory.
  • Prepares pre-analytical reagents and controls using automated or fixed volume measuring devices. Submits documentation to appropriate staff for approval to use.
  • Prepares and maintains complete and accurate records of reagents or media using established procedures, formulas, stock solutions and fixed volume measuring devices.
  • Maintains inventory of consumable items including reagents and supplies. Orders, unpacks, logs, dates and stores reagents/supplies upon receipt and properly rotates stock for use. Performs inventory of laboratory items including restocking the benches and equipment inventory.
  • Sorting and accessioning incoming specimens into appropriate LIS, then delivering to designated testing platform/department.
  • Performs data entry or transcribes data from previously recorded results to computer for data reduction and prepares for licensed personnel's review.
  • Tallies workload data and prepares reports as requested.
  • Assists in the performance of quality control procedures.
  • Prepares protocols/logs or other appropriate documents.
  • Identifies specimen problems and demonstrates ability to appropriately resolve or elevate to licensed personnel (CA only) or delegated supervisor (non-CA).
  • Assists a licensed person (e.g.: CLS) with performance of validation verifications and other Research and Development (R&D) activities, as applicable.
  • Trains other Lab Associates. Supports Training Programs, where applicable.
  • Takes initiative in making suggestions to improve efficiency and productivity and provides consistent feedback. Is a resource for process improvement.
  • Demonstrates leadership through accountability and collaboration in daily activities.
  • Answers phones, transfers, or takes accurate messages. Maintains the confidentiality of client information.
  • Helps to ensure the laboratory areas are neat, clean, and organized.
  • Complies with all health and safety policies, procedures, and practices. Required to use personal protective equipment.
  • Other duties as assigned. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities, but rather a general description of work performed by the position.

Qualifications
Required Work Experience:
For Lab Associates in the Histopathology or Cytology department, the following is required:
  • 1 year of histopathology, cytology or other laboratory experience.
  • 1 year of experience handling Protected Health Information (PHI) and other patient information using a Laboratory Information System (LIS)

Preferred Work Experience:
  • 2 - 3 years of laboratory experience preferred.

Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • The normal performance of duties may require lifting and carrying objects. Objects in the weight range of 1 to 10 pounds are lifted and carried frequently; objects in the weight range of 11 to 25 pounds are lifted and carried occasionally and objects in the weight range of 26 to 50 pounds are seldom lifted and carried. Objects exceeding 50 pounds are not to be lifted or carried without assistance.
  • Performs repetitive tasks with dominant hand.
  • Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods.
  • Have good eye and hand coordination.

Knowledge:
  • A working knowledge of reagent stability and storage.
  • An awareness of the factors that influence test results.

Skills:
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Application (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Strong typing skills desirable.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills necessary to deal courteously and effectively with management, co-workers, and clients.
  • Other automation skills helpful.

Education
  • Bachelor's Degree Biological Science or Chemistry (other life science degree coursework will be evaluated) (Preferred)
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent High School Diploma with a minimum of 2-3 years of laboratory experience Required. (Required)

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for Employment in accordance with the following laws if applicable, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the California Fair Chance Act.
Quest believes that conviction records may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship to the following job duties: accessing company property, information, assets, and products including sensitive information; accessing customer data or confidential information, and partnering and regularly working with or supervising other Quest employees and interacting with Quest customers.
About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.