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College Lab Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chapman University

Lab Tech Assistant 1

Orange, CA · On-site

$17.90/hr

... College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Art Department Labs. The primary responsibility of the Lab Assistant is to follow and maintain the Art Studio Lab's Policy and Procedure to ensure a ...

Chapman University

Lab Tech Assistant 1

Orange, CA

$17.90/hr

... College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Art Department Labs. The primary responsibility of the Lab Assistant is to follow and maintain the Art Studio Lab's Policy and Procedure to ensure a ...

IntelliPro Group Inc.

Lab Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Lab Assistant Location: San Diego, CA Position Type: Contracted - 6 Months Job Type: 100% On-site ... College grad/open to students as long as they can commit to the scheduled preferred (looking for ...

IntelliPro Group Inc.

Lab Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Lab Assistant Location: San Diego, CA Position Type: Contracted - 6 Months Job Type: 100% On-site ... College grad/open to students as long as they can commit to the scheduled preferred (looking for ...

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College Lab Assistant information

What is a college lab assistant?

College Lab Assistants are support staff who help maintain laboratories in educational institutions, such as colleges and universities. Their duties typically include preparing equipment and materials for lab classes, assisting instructors and students during experiments, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and maintaining cleanliness and organization of the lab. They may also help with inventory management, equipment troubleshooting, and sometimes provide demonstrations or guidance to students. College Lab Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring that lab sessions run smoothly and safely.

What are the typical responsibilities of a college lab assistant?

During a busy semester, College Lab Assistants are responsible for preparing lab materials, setting up equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed before each class session. They often assist students with experiments, answer technical questions, and troubleshoot equipment issues. Additionally, they help instructors with grading lab reports, maintaining inventory, and ensuring the laboratory remains organized and stocked. Collaboration with faculty, students, and other staff is essential for smooth lab operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a college lab assistant?

To thrive as a College Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and relevant scientific concepts, often supported by an associate's degree or coursework in science. Familiarity with lab equipment, data recording systems, and software for inventory or experiment tracking is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you support students and faculty while maintaining a safe, efficient laboratory environment. These skills ensure smooth lab operations, accurate results, and a positive learning experience for students.

What is the difference between College Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectCollege Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; some technical trainingPost-secondary education, often an associate or bachelor's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, college labsResearch labs, medical labs, industrial settings
Employer & IndustryColleges, universities, educational institutionsHospitals, research facilities, biotech companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level lab roles in educationMore technical, with greater responsibilities in lab procedures

While both roles involve working in laboratory environments, College Lab Assistants primarily support educational activities in college labs with basic technical skills. Laboratory Technicians typically have more advanced training and handle complex experiments or testing in research or medical settings. The roles differ mainly in education requirements and job responsibilities, but both are essential in laboratory operations.

How much does a College Lab Assistant get paid?

College Lab Assistants typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on the institution, location, and experience. Some positions may offer additional benefits or stipends for working in specialized labs or during certain hours.

What qualifications do I need to be a college lab assistant?

To be a college lab assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled in or have recently completed relevant coursework in science or related fields. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety procedures are also important qualifications.

What cities in California are hiring for College Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most College Lab Assistant job openings:

College Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various College Lab Assistant job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

MESA Temporary Undergraduate Research and Lab Assistant (26/27)

Taft, CA • On-site

Taft College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Taft Collegeexternal

$16.90/hr

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with the operation, organization, and upkeep of the laboratory spaces used for MESA undergraduate research projects.

  • Operate and perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, monitor equipment for maintenance needs, and assist with troubleshooting under staff supervision.

  • Coordinate with faculty and students involved in MESA undergraduate research projects to support research activities, laboratory preparation, and equipment needs.

Job description

Description
Taft College
Taft Community College was established on August 30, 1922, as part of the Taft Union High School District. The institution officially became Taft College on July 1, 1954, and in September 1956 opened its current campus at 29 Cougar Court, adjacent to Taft Union High School. The West Kern Community College District was later established as a single-college district governed by a five-member Board of Trustees. Through strong leadership and a commitment to student success, Taft College provides a high-quality academic experience and is recognized as one of California's premier small colleges.
Position Title
MESA Temporary Undergraduate Research and Lab Assistant (26/27)
Assignment duration: August 24, 2026 - June 30, 2027
Work Study Responsibilities
MESA Temporary Research and Lab Assistant (26/27)
Primary Function:
The MESA Temporary Undergraduate Research and Lab Assistant (26/27) is responsible for supporting the operations of the biology lab area and assisting with laboratory activities associated with MESA undergraduate research projects. The student worker will help maintain and organize laboratory equipment, supplies, and workspaces; assist with the development and testing of research-related lab protocols; and coordinate with faculty and students involved in MESA undergraduate research projects. The student worker will also serve as an ambassador for the MESA Program by promoting program services and participating in outreach and recruitment activities.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Assist with the operation, organization, and upkeep of the laboratory spaces used for MESA undergraduate research projects.
  • Operate and perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment used to support MESA undergraduate research projects, following established procedures and safety protocols.
  • Help maintain STEM laboratory equipment and other technology and research equipment used by students.
  • Monitor equipment for routine maintenance needs, report issues to staff, and assist with basic troubleshooting under staff supervision.
  • Organize, inventory, and maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and reagents used for MESA undergraduate research projects.
  • Track inventory levels, restock supplies and materials as needed, and notify staff when equipment, supplies, or reagents need to be replenished.
  • Assist with the development, preparation, and testing of laboratory protocols related to MESA undergraduate research projects under the direction of faculty or staff.
  • Assist students with locating and properly using laboratory equipment, supplies, and available research resources while following established safety procedures.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe laboratory preparation areas, workstations, makerspace areas, and collaborative spaces.
  • Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of laboratory preparation areas used for MESA undergraduate research projects.
  • Help prepare laboratory and STEM spaces for research activities, workshops, labs, demonstrations, and special events.
  • Coordinate and communicate with faculty and students involved with MESA undergraduate research projects to support research activities, laboratory preparation, equipment needs, and project-related tasks.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Represent the MESA Program at campus events, outreach activities, and recruitment opportunities.
  • Promote MESA services and encourage student participation in program activities.
  • Assist staff with planning and setting up events, workshops, and student engagement activities.
  • Provide general office and administrative support, including data entry, answering inquiries, and organizing materials.
  • Complete assigned projects and meet established deadlines.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)
  • Interest in STEM, technology, or laboratory research
  • Interest in or experience with undergraduate research, laboratory procedures, or scientific equipment.
  • Familiarity with or willingness to learn the operation and maintenance of laboratory and other STEM equipment.
  • Ability to follow laboratory protocols, safety procedures, and established equipment-use guidelines.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly when managing equipment, supplies, reagents, and inventory.
  • Basic troubleshooting skills for laboratory equipment, computers, and technology.
  • Ability to maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming laboratory and STEM environment.
  • Excellent customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with faculty, students, MESA staff, and fellow student workers.
  • Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with faculty, staff, and students.
  • Dependable, punctual, and able to manage multiple responsibilities

Requirements
Requirements:
  • Must be currently enrolled and in good standing at Taft College.
  • Must be registered for 6 units or more during work study program.

Apply