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Covid Testing Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HUCKEYE HEALTH SERVICES LLC

LVN- Hospital

Coalinga, CA · On-site

$43/hr

Collect samples for lab testing. QUALIFICATIONS: -Driver's License -Covid Card -BLS Card -Nurse License Schedule: 8hrs a day, 40hrs per week Job Type: CONTRACT COMPENSATION: $43.00 per hour Please ...

HUCKEYE HEALTH SERVICES LLC

LVN/ LPN

Coalinga, CA · On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Collect samples for lab testing. QUALIFICATIONS: -Driver's License -Covid Card -BLS Card -Nurse License -Resume Schedule: 8hrs per day, 40hrs per week Job Type: CONTRACT COMPENSATION: $43.00 per hour ...

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All JobsCovid Testing Lab JobsCovid Testing Lab Jobs in California

Covid Testing Lab information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do covid testing lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for covid testing lab in California is $22.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Covid Testing Lab vs Covid Test Collector?

AspectCovid Testing LabCovid Test Collector
CredentialsLaboratory technician certification, medical or clinical laboratory licensesPhlebotomy or medical assistant certification, training in specimen collection
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, medical facilities, testing centersClinics, testing sites, community testing events
Employer & IndustryMedical labs, healthcare providers, public health agenciesHealthcare clinics, testing companies, public health organizations
Primary RoleAnalyzing samples, processing tests, reporting resultsCollecting specimens from patients, preparing samples for testing

In summary, Covid Testing Labs focus on analyzing and processing COVID-19 samples in laboratory settings, requiring specialized lab credentials. In contrast, Covid Test Collectors are responsible for collecting specimens from patients at testing sites, often requiring certification in specimen collection. Both roles are essential in the COVID-19 testing process but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

How to get a job in a medical lab?

To work in a medical lab, typically a laboratory technician or technologist, you need relevant education such as a degree in medical laboratory science or a related field. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are essential. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can also improve job prospects.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a Covid testing lab?

Professionals in a Covid testing lab often face challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols, handling high sample volumes during surges, and ensuring accurate, timely results under pressure. Team members must work collaboratively to manage workflow efficiently, adapt to evolving testing guidelines, and troubleshoot equipment or procedural issues as they arise. Staying updated with the latest public health recommendations and maintaining clear communication with healthcare providers are also crucial aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a COVID Testing Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a COVID Testing Lab Technician, you need a background in laboratory science, attention to detail, and familiarity with biological sample handling, usually supported by a degree in a related field and relevant laboratory experience. Proficiency with PCR machines, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and adherence to biosafety protocols is essential. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and the ability to communicate clearly are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate results, safe handling of infectious materials, and efficient workflows critical to public health efforts.

What jobs can you get in a lab?

In a Covid testing lab, common jobs include laboratory technicians, sample processors, quality control specialists, and lab managers. These roles require knowledge of lab procedures, safety protocols, and often certification or training in laboratory techniques and biosafety. Staff typically work with testing equipment, handle biological samples, and ensure accurate test results.

What is the job description of a Covid tester?

A Covid tester is responsible for collecting samples, such as nasal or throat swabs, from individuals to test for COVID-19. They follow safety protocols, use testing kits and personal protective equipment, and record test data accurately. The role often requires attention to detail, good communication skills, and adherence to health guidelines.

What is the highest paying lab job?

In a COVID testing lab, the highest paying roles are often laboratory managers or senior microbiologists, who oversee testing processes and ensure quality control. These positions typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and experience, and they can earn significantly higher salaries compared to entry-level lab technician roles.

What is a Covid Testing Lab?

A Covid Testing Lab is a specialized laboratory facility where samples, such as nasal or throat swabs, are analyzed to detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes Covid-19. These labs use various testing methods, including PCR (polymerase chain reaction), antigen, and antibody tests, to determine if someone is currently infected or has been exposed to the virus. Covid Testing Labs follow strict safety protocols and are often certified or accredited by health authorities to ensure accurate and reliable results. Their work is essential for diagnosing cases, tracking the spread of the virus, and supporting public health efforts.
Covid Testing Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Covid Testing Lab job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,250 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Clinical Lab Scientist I - WD

Clinical Lab Scientist I - WD

Quest Diagnostics

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$39.30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 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
Clinical Lab Scientist I - WD - Sacramento, CA
Department: Clinical Laboratory - Microbio General
Schedule: Tuesday to Saturday, 5:00 PM to 1:30 AM
Pay range: $47.75 - $53.10 / hour; employee may be eligible to receive shift differential of 10% for some or all hours worked on second shift and 15% for some or all hours worked on third shift. Additional details on shift differential will be provided if an offer is extended.
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!

As the world's leading clinical laboratory, Quest Diagnostics played a central role in the national response to COVID-19. Our nearly 50,000 employees banded together to support each other and the thousands of patients we serve every day. We prioritized the health and safety of our frontline workers, enabled timely and effective decision-making and collaborated with each other across functions.
Responsibilities
Job Duties:
  • Prepares and tests new reagents or controls and evaluates their usefulness based on standard criteria.
  • Determines the acceptability of specimens for testing according to established criteria in testing procedures.
  • Accurately enters results of testing. Checks the computer review reports to monitor accurate reporting of laboratory results.
  • Evaluates the acceptability of routine analysis prior to releasing patient reports. Takes appropriate action in response to critical values or unusual or unexpected results, and documents action taken.
  • Responsible for performing preventative maintenance and/or calibration of laboratory equipment and properly documenting actions taken based on approved schedule.

Qualifications
Job Requirements:
  • A Bachelors of Science degree in medical technology or biological sciences from an accredited college or university.
  • A current California state Clinical Laboratory Scientist license to perform laboratory testing.
  • Zero to three year's direct experience in a laboratory setting.

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.
MLS, Medical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Lab Scientist, Med Tech, Medical Technologist, CLS, Clinical Lab Scientist
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.

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