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Drug Testing Laboratory Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... testing laboratory. Benefits CalPortland is proud to offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits ... Technician subject to random drug and alcohol screens as required by the company * May be required ...

... testing laboratory. Benefits CalPortland is proud to offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits ... Technician subject to random drug and alcohol screens as required by the company * May be required ...

... testing laboratory. Benefits CalPortland is proud to offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits ... Technician subject to random drug and alcohol screens as required by the company * May be required ...

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Drug Testing Laboratory information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do drug testing laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug testing laboratory 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 a drug testing laboratory?

A drug testing laboratory is a specialized facility that analyzes biological samples, such as urine, blood, hair, or saliva, to detect the presence of drugs or their metabolites. These labs use advanced scientific equipment and strict protocols to ensure accurate and reliable results. Drug testing laboratories are commonly used by employers, law enforcement, sports organizations, and healthcare providers to monitor compliance, ensure safety, or diagnose substance use. Qualified technicians and scientists oversee the process to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the testing.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in a drug testing laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a drug testing laboratory often face challenges such as maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures, ensuring accuracy under tight turnaround times, and staying current with evolving testing technologies and regulations. Addressing these challenges requires meticulous attention to detail, ongoing training, and clear communication within the team. Working in a collaborative environment with well-defined protocols helps minimize errors and ensures reliable results, which are critical for compliance and client trust.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drug testing laboratory technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drug Testing Laboratory Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry or biology, attention to detail, and typically a relevant degree or certification in laboratory sciences. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as gas or liquid chromatography systems, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and adherence to regulatory protocols like CLIA or ISO standards is essential. Strong organizational skills, integrity, and clear communication help ensure accuracy and maintain chain-of-custody procedures. These abilities are crucial to guarantee precise, reliable test results and uphold the credibility and legal compliance of the laboratory.

What is the difference between Drug Testing Laboratory vs Drug Testing Technician?

AspectDrug Testing LaboratoryDrug Testing Technician
CredentialsLaboratory certifications, scientific degreesTraining in sample collection and testing procedures
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, controlled settingsCollection sites, clinics, workplaces
Industry UsageConducts complex analyses, quality controlPerforms sample collection, initial testing

The Drug Testing Laboratory focuses on detailed analysis and lab-based testing, requiring scientific credentials. In contrast, the Drug Testing Technician primarily handles sample collection and preliminary testing in field or clinical settings. Both roles are essential in the drug testing industry but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Drug Testing Laboratory jobs in California?

For Drug Testing Laboratory jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Drug Testing Laboratory jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drug Testing Laboratory job openings:

Infographic showing various Drug Testing Laboratory job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,250 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Construction Materials Testing Laboratory Technician (Flex)

San Diego, CA


Kleinfelder Inc
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

267th of 450 rated engineering

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


$20.25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Take Your Construction Career to the Next Level! 

Kleinfelder, a Forbes' Top Employer for Engineers in North America, is committed to a people-first culture, technical excellence, and creating opportunities where employees can thrive!

Are you ready to be challenged, make a difference, and experience professional growth in your career? Kleinfelder's Construction Services team is looking for you! From construction management and observation/inspection services to laboratory testing and materials and forensic engineering, our Construction Services market helps to develop and maintain America's infrastructure and supply chain and is a recognized industry leader with more than 25 accredited laboratories. 

Step into Your New Role

Kleinfelder is seeking a Laboratory Construction Materials Testing Technician to join our San Diego, California team on a flex basis.

This position supports the laboratory testing of construction materials for conformance with applicable project plans, specifications, and engineering requirements. The selected candidate will perform laboratory testing on soils, asphalt, aggregates, and concrete materials, and assist with general laboratory operations as assigned.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual interested in developing a career in construction materials testing, geotechnical engineering support, and laboratory operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Perform routine to moderately complex laboratory testing on construction materials, including:
    • Soils
    • Asphalt
    • Aggregates
    • Concrete
  • Prepare, label, and organize test specimens and samples
  • Accurately document and record test data and results
  • Maintain laboratory equipment, tools, and testing areas in clean and operational condition
  • Assist with receiving, handling, and tracking incoming samples
  • Follow applicable laboratory procedures, standards, and safety requirements
  • Support additional laboratory and project-related tasks assigned by the supervisor or laboratory management

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must possess the following qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
  • Ability to pass a drug screening
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Willingness to learn and develop technical skills
  • Ability to work construction-related schedules, including occasional night shifts and weekends as needed
  • Ability to travel locally to support project assignments when required

Preferred Qualifications

The following certifications are preferred but not required at the time of hire. Candidates must be willing and able to obtain them as part of their professional development:

  • ACI Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician
  • Caltrans Certifications

Technical Skills

Candidates should possess basic computer proficiency and general working knowledge of:

  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Outlook

Work Environment

This position is primarily based in the San Diego Office Laboratory. Work may occasionally require local travel to support project needs. The role may involve standing for extended periods, lifting and handling testing materials, and working in a laboratory and construction-related environment.

Professional Development

Kleinfelder is committed to supporting employee growth and career advancement. The selected candidate will have opportunities to expand technical knowledge and obtain industry certifications through:

  • Company-supported training
  • On-the-job mentoring
  • Professional development opportunities

This position offers a strong foundation for a long-term career within a highly successful and growing team.

Move Forward with Kleinfelder

Kleinfelder has been connecting great people to the best work since 1961. We are engineers, scientists, and construction professionals providing solutions that improve our clients' transportation, water, energy, and other private infrastructure. As a responsive, cross-disciplinary team of bright, curious, and innovative problem-solvers, we are dedicated to doing the right thing, every day, on every project from over 85 offices in the US, Canada, and Australia. Connecting great people to the best work is our purpose - together, we deliver.

Progress with an Employer that Values You

Kleinfelder is an inclusive organization free from discrimination. We are a stronger organization when we are a diverse workforce and believe that through diversity, equity, and inclusion comes creativity, innovation, and unity. We are proud to offer the following:

 

Benefits: Kleinfelder offers an excellent compensation and benefits package, including: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, and paid holidays. The expected hourly pay range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Pay Scale Disclosure Law. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Hourly range: $17.25 - $24.30 per hour.

Career Development: We are committed to investing in the professional development of our staff, offering each employee every opportunity to grow, develop, and take control of their career paths. We support these efforts through reimbursements for continuing education as well as many of the expenses associated with trainings and certifications, and opportunities for career development through our internal Mentoring Program.

Equal Opportunity: Kleinfelder is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Women/Disabled/Veterans. (Compliant with the new VEVRAA and Section 503 rules).

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES 

Please note that Kleinfelder does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Kleinfelder will not consider or agree to payment for any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, Kleinfelder explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resume, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Kleinfelder.



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