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Dna Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Natera

Research Associate 1

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Remote USA $25-$33 USD OUR OPPORTUNITY Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women's health, and organ health. Our aim is to make personalized genetic ...

Natera

Associate Scientist R&D

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$89K - $112K/yr

Additional wellness and work-life benefits Compensation Range $89,900-$112,350 USD OUR OPPORTUNITY Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women's health ...

Nitor Infotech

Python Developer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$59.25 - $81.50/hr

This DNA is enriched by its 10 years of expertise, best practices and frameworks & Accelerators ... Testing o Enterprise Content Management o Internet of Things (IoT) o DevOps Industry Domains o ...

Nitor Infotech

Python Developer

San Francisco, CA

$59.25 - $81.50/hr

This DNA is enriched by its 10 years of expertise, best practices and frameworks & Accelerators ... Testing o Enterprise Content Management o Internet of Things (IoT) o DevOps Industry Domains o ...

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How much do dna testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for dna testing in California is $25.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a DNA testing specialist?

To thrive as a DNA Testing Specialist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree in biology or forensic science. Familiarity with PCR, DNA sequencing equipment, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is essential, and certifications such as ASCP Molecular Biology can be advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help ensure accurate results and clear reporting. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining scientific integrity, ensuring reliable test outcomes, and supporting legal or medical decision-making.

What is a DNA testing job?

DNA testing jobs include a variety of laboratory positions. Someone in this field may study DNA for a clinical trial, test for a genetic disorder, or determine paternity. These positions are also available in forensics, or to identify criminal suspects. Most DNA testing jobs involve handling up to several dozen samples at any given time, including processing the paperwork and correctly labelling each sample for tracking. Senior roles may involve demonstrating laboratory techniques to entry-level employees, such as a technician or assistant.

What does a typical day look like for a DNA testing specialist in a laboratory setting?

A typical day for a DNA Testing Specialist involves preparing and processing biological samples, conducting DNA extraction and amplification procedures, analyzing genetic data using specialized software, and ensuring quality control throughout each step. The role requires meticulous attention to detail, adherence to strict protocols, and thorough documentation of results. Collaboration with forensic scientists, medical professionals, or law enforcement may also be involved, depending on the purpose of the testing. Staying updated on new technologies and maintaining laboratory equipment are also important aspects of the job.

What is the difference between Dna Testing vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectDna TestingForensic Scientist
Required CredentialsLaboratory certifications, DNA analysis trainingForensic science degree, criminal justice background
Work EnvironmentClinical labs, private labsCrime labs, law enforcement agencies
Industry UsageHealthcare, paternity, ancestryCrime scene investigation, legal cases

While Dna Testing focuses on analyzing DNA samples for health, ancestry, or paternity purposes, Forensic Scientists apply DNA analysis within criminal investigations. Both roles require laboratory skills and certifications, but Forensic Scientists often work in law enforcement settings and handle legal evidence, whereas Dna Testing professionals typically work in healthcare or private labs. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the DNA analysis industry.

What is DNA testing?

DNA testing is a scientific method used to identify genetic information from an individual's DNA. It involves collecting a sample—usually saliva, blood, or a cheek swab—and analyzing specific regions of the DNA for markers that can reveal relationships, ancestry, or genetic health risks. The process is highly accurate and commonly used for purposes such as paternity testing, ancestry research, and medical diagnostics. Results are typically available within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of test and the laboratory. DNA testing is confidential and regulated to ensure privacy and reliability.
More about Dna Testing jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Dna Testing jobs in California? The most popular types of Dna Testing jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Dna Testing jobs in California? For Dna Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dna Testing jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Dna Testing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Dna Testing jobs? Cities in California with the most Dna Testing job openings:
Dna Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dna Testing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,911 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Research Associate 1

Natera

San Carlos, CA • On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Natera rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

POSITION DURATION:
This is a six-month contract role located in San Carlos with the potential to extend or convert to full-time based on performance and business needs.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Join Natera's Oncology Research Use Only (RUO) Histopathology team as a Research Associate. You will independently execute molecular biology experiments, process laboratory specimens, and operate Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows. Every sample represents a real person, and you will work in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment that balances a deep mission for patient care with strict execution.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Process laboratory specimens following standard methods with high attention to detail, maintaining strict protocols to avoid cross-contamination
  • Isolate plasma from whole blood manually, and perform tissue dissections for both Fresh and Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) samples
  • Perform DNA extraction and purification from various sample types, including whole blood, plasma, and tissue
  • Execute library preparation and DNA sequencing using platforms such as iSeq, MiSeq i100, NovaSeq6000, and NovaSeqX
  • Maintain accurate tracking of samples using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and database queries
  • Maintain laboratory instruments in good operating condition, perform routine preventive maintenance, and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions using the ticketing system
  • Perform consumables, reagents, and samples inventory as needed
  • Draft and refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) through an iterative process guided by senior scientists
  • Maintain precise, well-organized laboratory records, worksheets, and notebooks
  • Adhere to environmental, health, and safety (EHS) guidelines, as well as Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
  • Treat quality as foundational by delivering accurate, reproducible, and clean data
  • Take ownership of the work, executing tasks and adapting to evolving project needs without waiting for a finished playbook
  • Handle protected health information (PHI) in paper and electronic formats as required to perform duties

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Minimum of a BS/BA in a biological science or equivalent
  • 1 to 4 years of hands-on Molecular Biology laboratory experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Must have proven, hands-on experience utilizing molecular biology techniques, including pipetting, PCR/qPCR, and nucleic acid extraction
  • Experience with PCR library preparation for Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and running sequencing platforms
  • Practical knowledge of LIMS and proficiency in sample tracking
  • Demonstrated experience handling delicate biological materials and following rigorous research protocols
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills to actively share precise data and help the broader team troubleshoot
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required; advanced Excel skills (e.g., nested formulas, macros, pivot tables) and database querying capabilities are highly desired
  • Experience with sample analysis and QC, including electrophoresis and DNA quantification techniques
  • Ability to investigate and create new methods or technologies to advance project timelines
  • Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to recognize subtle malfunctions and resolve issues

ADDITIONAL JOB DESCRIPTION:
  • This role requires onsite work in San Carlos and flexibility to work shifted schedules (e.g., 7am - 4pm, 11am - 8pm, 7pm - 3am) with a 30-minute break.

The pay range is listed and actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years & depth of experience, certifications and specific office location. This may differ in other locations due to cost of labor considerations.
Remote USA
$25-$33 USD
OUR OPPORTUNITY
Natera™ is a global leader in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing, dedicated to oncology, women's health, and organ health. Our aim is to make personalized genetic testing and diagnostics part of the standard of care to protect health and enable earlier and more targeted interventions that lead to longer, healthier lives.
The Natera team consists of highly dedicated statisticians, geneticists, doctors, laboratory scientists, business professionals, software engineers and many other professionals from world-class institutions, who care deeply for our work and each other. When you join Natera, you'll work hard and grow quickly. Working alongside the elite of the industry, you'll be stretched and challenged, and take pride in being part of a company that is changing the landscape of genetic disease management.
WHAT WE OFFER
Competitive Benefits - Employee benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents. Additionally, Natera employees and their immediate families receive free testing in addition to fertility care benefits. Other benefits include pregnancy and baby bonding leave, 401k benefits, commuter benefits and much more. We also offer a generous employee referral program!
For more information, visit www.natera.com.
Natera is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, and welcome people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities and perspectives. Inclusive collaboration benefits our employees, our community and our patients, and is critical to our mission of changing the management of disease worldwide.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with applicable laws.
If you are based in California, we encourage you to read this important information for California residents.
Link: https://www.natera.com/notice-of-data-collection-california-residents/
Please be advised that Natera will reach out to candidates with a @natera.com email domain ONLY. Email communications from all other domain names are not from Natera or its employees and are fraudulent. Natera does not request interviews via text messages and does not ask for personal information until a candidate has engaged with the company and has spoken to a recruiter and the hiring team. Natera takes cyber crimes seriously, and will collaborate with law enforcement authorities to prosecute any related cyber crimes.
For more information:
- BBB announcement on job scams
- FBI Cyber Crime resource page

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