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Contract Laboratory Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Certified Group

Laboratory Manager

Tustin, CA · On-site

... laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly ... Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ...

Certified Group

Laboratory Manager

Tustin, CA

... laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly ... Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ...

BioPhase Solutions

QA Specialist

Anaheim, CA

$25 - $35/hr

Proficient experience and knowledge of cGMP regulations, and FDA and ICH guidelines as they pertain to contract laboratory and/or aseptic manufacturing operations. * Proficient experience and ...

Astrix Inc

QC Laboratory Technician

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

M-F 8:00AM-4:30PM (OT when needed) Type : 6-month contract-to-hire Key Responsibilities * Conduct testing on raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods following established laboratory ...

Astrix Inc

QC Lab Technician

Chino, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Contract - hire Job Summary The QC Lab Technician is responsible for performing routine laboratory testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure compliance with ...

Astrix Inc

QC Lab Technician

Chino, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Contract - hire Job Summary The QC Lab Technician is responsible for performing routine laboratory testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure compliance with ...

Orion Group

Formulation Chemist - III

Orange, CA · On-site

$46 - $50/hr

Formulation Chemist - III $46 - $50/hr with medical benefits available at a cost 2 year contract ... Maintaining laboratory notebooks and databases. * Managing raw material inventories and vendor ...

Astrix Inc

QC Lab Technician

Chino, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Contract - hire Job Summary The QC Lab Technician is responsible for performing routine laboratory testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure compliance with ...

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All JobsContract Laboratory JobsContract Laboratory Jobs in Riverside, CA

Contract Laboratory information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$26

$47

How much do contract laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract laboratory in Riverside, CA is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest-paying career in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, senior roles such as Laboratory Director or Principal Scientist tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they oversee laboratory operations, research, or development projects.

What is the difference between Contract Laboratory vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectContract LaboratoryQuality Control Technician
CredentialsRelevant scientific degrees, certifications in lab testingTechnical certifications, industry-specific training
Work EnvironmentIndependent labs, contract-based projectsManufacturing or production facilities
Employer & Industry UsageContract labs serve multiple clients across industriesManufacturers, quality departments in various industries

Contract laboratories focus on providing independent testing services for clients, often working on multiple projects across industries. Quality Control Technicians work within companies to monitor and ensure product quality during manufacturing. While both roles require technical skills and lab experience, contract labs emphasize external testing services, whereas QC Technicians focus on internal quality assurance.

Are lab jobs in demand?

Lab jobs, including positions like contract laboratory roles, are generally in demand due to ongoing needs in research, quality control, and environmental testing across various industries. These roles often require technical skills, certifications, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols. Employment opportunities can fluctuate based on industry growth and funding availability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Contract Laboratory role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Contract Laboratory role, a strong background in laboratory science, analytical techniques, and quality control principles—typically supported by a relevant science degree—is essential. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), regulatory standards (such as GLP or ISO/IEC 17025), and specialized analytical instruments is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing projects and ensuring precise results. These competencies ensure accurate testing, regulatory compliance, and reliable service delivery for clients.

Who gets paid more, MLS or MLT?

In the context of a contract laboratory, MLS (Medical Laboratory Scientist) typically earns higher salaries than MLT (Medical Laboratory Technician) due to advanced education and certification requirements. MLS professionals usually have a bachelor's degree and perform more complex testing, which is reflected in higher pay compared to MLTs, who often have an associate degree and perform routine testing.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a contract laboratory setting?

Professionals in contract laboratories often work on projects for multiple clients, which can lead to shifting priorities and tight deadlines. Balancing quality standards for various industries (such as pharmaceuticals, food, or environmental testing) requires strong attention to detail and adaptability. Effective communication and collaboration with both internal team members and external clients are essential to ensure requirements are met and results are delivered on time. Additionally, staying current with changing regulations and laboratory best practices is key to maintaining compliance and client trust.

What is the highest-paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong management skills, and they oversee research projects, staff, and compliance.

What is a contract laboratory?

A contract laboratory is an independent facility that provides specialized testing, analysis, and research services to clients on a contractual basis. These labs serve industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, environmental, and chemicals, offering services like quality control testing, product validation, and regulatory compliance. By outsourcing to contract laboratories, companies can access advanced technology and expertise without investing in their own in-house labs. This helps businesses save time, reduce costs, and meet regulatory requirements efficiently.
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Laboratory jobs in Riverside, CA? For Contract Laboratory jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Laboratory jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Laboratory jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Contract Laboratory jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Contract Laboratory job openings:
Contract Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Laboratory job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,789 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Laboratory Manager

Certified Group

Tustin, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Certified Group is committed to partnering with customers to deliver innovative scientific solutions and expertise - So The World Can Trust In What It Consumes™. Our network of 30+ North American and European laboratories serves the food & beverage, dietary supplements, cosmetics, OTC, tobacco/nicotine, cannabis, and hemp industries.
Our Brands
Certified Group is comprised of a set of specialized brands that collectively deliver laboratory testing, regulatory consulting, and certification & audit services across highly regulated industries:
  • Certified Laboratories - Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily supporting food, beverage, cosmetics, OTC, and dietary supplement industries.
  • Food Safety Net Services (FSNS) - A leading network of ISO-accredited laboratories across North America, focused on food safety testing, operational support, and technical services for the food industry.
  • Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and next-generation products, with deep expertise in analytical chemistry and toxicology.
  • EAS Consulting Group - A regulatory consulting firm offering expert guidance, training, and auditing support across FDA, USDA, and other regulated sectors, powered by a large network of independent advisors.
  • FSNS Certification & Audit - Provides accredited third-party auditing and certification services, including food safety, animal welfare, and GMP programs.

Position Overview:
The Laboratory Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of the laboratory to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and timeliness of analytical results. This role oversees laboratory staff, instrumentation, and workflows supporting chemical testing for personal care and cosmetic products.
The Laboratory Manager partners closely with the Lab Director to support operational strategy while ensuring laboratory activities meet quality, regulatory, and client expectations. The successful candidate is a proactive and resourceful leader who drives operational excellence, fosters innovation, and maintains a strong focus on client satisfaction and team development.
This role requires a hands-on leader who can balance technical oversight, staff management, and operational performance in a fast-paced testing environment.
Responsibilities:
Laboratory Operations
  • Direct the day-to-day activities of laboratory staff, ensuring testing is performed accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with quality standards and laboratory procedures.
  • Manage laboratory workflows, scheduling, and resource allocation to meet turnaround time and productivity targets.
  • Oversee the proper operation, maintenance, and utilization of laboratory instrumentation used in chemical testing.
  • Monitor performance metrics and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and throughput.

Technical & Analytical Oversight
  • Provide technical guidance and oversight for analytical testing performed within the laboratory.
  • Serve as an escalation point for complex technical challenges, supporting root cause investigations and corrective actions.
  • Ensure analytical results consistently meet internal quality standards and external audit requirements.
  • Maintain awareness of new technologies, instrumentation, and methodologies relevant to personal care testing.

Quality & Regulatory Compliance
  • Ensure laboratory operations comply with ISO, GMP, and internal quality system requirements.
  • Oversee execution of QA/QC programs, documentation practices, and laboratory procedures.
  • Support the development and implementation of laboratory methods, SOPs, and policies.
  • Participate in internal and external audits and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Client Support & Collaboration
  • Serve as a technical resource for clients, providing scientific insight and guidance related to testing processes and results.
  • Collaborate with internal teams to ensure testing programs meet client expectations for accuracy, reporting format, and turnaround time.
  • Support strong client relationships by delivering reliable results and responsive communication.

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence
  • Analyze laboratory operations and implement improvements that enhance productivity, turnaround time, and data quality.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment, facilities, and workspaces to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
  • Prepare operational reports and provide recommendations for strategic and operational improvements.

Team Leadership & Development
  • Lead, mentor, and develop laboratory staff to ensure strong technical capability and professional growth.
  • Participate in recruitment, onboarding, training, and performance evaluations.
  • Foster a collaborative, safety-focused, and innovative laboratory culture.
  • Address performance issues and partner with HR on employee development and disciplinary processes when needed.

Qualifications:
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field (or equivalent experience).
  • 5+ years of laboratory experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
  • Experience working in a high-throughput analytical laboratory environment, preferably supporting personal care, cosmetics, or consumer product testing.
  • Familiarity with GMP, ISO quality systems, and laboratory operational processes.

Technical Skills
  • Strong understanding of laboratory instrumentation and analytical testing workflows.
  • Experience working with LIMS systems and laboratory data management.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).

Leadership & Soft Skills
  • Demonstrated leadership, coaching, and team development abilities.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking capabilities.
  • Ability to build collaborative, trust-based relationships across teams.

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The compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role, based on the selected compensation structure and applicable guidelines. Actual pay within this range may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic location. Additional components of total rewards-such as bonuses, benefits, or incentives-may also apply where applicable.
Salary Range for Pay Transparency
$125,000-$150,000 USD
By applying, you acknowledge that Certified Group will process your personal information for recruitment and hiring purposes in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Policy. California residents may review additional information about how we collect and use personal information, including retention and rights, in our California Notice at Collection. To view our Privacy Policy, click the link here: Certified Group Privacy Policy
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.

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