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Entry Level Chemistry Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific field. * Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a laboratory setting (experience in an industrial or ...

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific field. * Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a laboratory setting (experience in an industrial or ...

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Entry Level Chemistry information

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$16

$24

$34

How much do entry level chemistry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level chemistry in California is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level chemist?

Entry level chemistry jobs are positions designed for individuals who have recently graduated with a degree in chemistry or a related field and have little to no professional experience. These roles typically involve assisting with laboratory work, conducting experiments, analyzing samples, and supporting senior chemists or scientists. Common job titles include laboratory technician, quality control analyst, and research assistant. Entry level positions provide valuable hands-on experience and foundational skills needed for career advancement in chemistry and related industries.

What does an entry level chemist do?

As an entry-level chemist, you'll commonly be involved in tasks such as preparing and analyzing samples, conducting routine laboratory tests, maintaining lab equipment, and accurately recording experimental results. You may also assist senior chemists with research projects, method development, and quality control processes. Collaboration with other team members, including lab technicians and researchers, is frequent to ensure experiments run smoothly and data is reliable. Over time, you'll gain exposure to more complex projects and have opportunities to take on increased responsibility within the laboratory.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level chemist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Chemist, you need a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related field, a solid grasp of laboratory techniques, and foundational knowledge of chemical principles. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, safety protocols, and data analysis software such as ChemDraw or LIMS is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These capabilities are essential for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining safety, and contributing to successful research and development projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Chemistry vs Entry Level Chemical Technician?

AspectEntry Level ChemistryEntry Level Chemical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemistry or related fieldAssociate's degree or Bachelor's in Chemistry or Chemical Technology
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic settingsManufacturing plants, laboratories, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, pharmaceutical companiesChemical manufacturing, quality control, process support

Entry Level Chemistry roles typically require a bachelor's degree and focus on research, analysis, and development in labs or academic settings. Entry Level Chemical Technicians often have similar educational backgrounds but work more directly in industrial environments, supporting manufacturing and quality processes. Both roles serve different industry needs but share foundational chemistry knowledge.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemistry jobs in California?

The most popular types of Chemistry jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Chemistry jobs in California?

For Entry Level Chemistry jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Chemistry jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Chemistry jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Chemistry jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Chemistry job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Chemistry job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,397 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Entry Level Chemistry Patent Agent or Scientific Analyst

Palo Alto, CA โ€ข On-site

Morrison Foerster
Law Firmsย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

$105 - $135/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Overview

MoFo is a destination law firm for talented, ambitious practitioners who value collaboration, teamwork, and commitment to excellence. We are known around the world not only for delivering innovative yet practical client service but also for serving as an incubator for our topโ€‘notch talent.

MoFo consistently receives topโ€‘tier rankings from leading directories and publications, speaking to our legal capabilities, dedication to creating an inclusive workplace, and commitment to our communities.

Our Patent Prosecution Group

With 60+ Ph.D.s, 100+ advanced degrees, and multiโ€‘lingual capabilities, including Chinese and German, we offer clients around the world a patent prosecution and counseling practice that is unrivaled in its depth of industry and technical experience. From the earliest stage of technical development to product clearance and licensing, our team develops a deep understanding of our clientsโ€™ business strategy so that we can customize an IP strategy for them. Learn more about the team and the work you can do at: https://www.mofo.com/capabilities/patent-strategy-prosecution.

Who You Are

The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in:

  • Preparing and prosecuting patent applications
  • Contributing to prosecution strategy
  • Providing technical and legal research and analysis with respect to matters pending before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
  • Providing technical support for PTAB and litigation proceedings
Requirements
  • Ph.D. in chemistry
  • Outstanding writing and analytical skills, and top academic credentials are essential
  • USPTO registration is not required
About MoFo

At MoFo, we collaborate as one firm, across borders, practice areas, and business functions and value fresh ideas and innovation over conformity and competition.

  • About Us: https://www.mofo.com/about
  • Diversity + Inclusion: https://careers.mofo.com/careers-diversity
  • Commitment to Pro Bono: https://careers.mofo.com/careers-pro-bono
  • The MoFo Foundation: https://www.mofo.com/culture/mofo-foundation
About Our Benefits
  • A variety of options for medical, dental, vision, life and disability coverage to meet the needs of you and your family.
  • Industryโ€‘leading parental leave and family benefits including adoption and fertility treatment options and backup child and elder care.
  • Global wellness program, including free access to Talkspace and Calm apps.
  • Annual community service day to make an impact on your community and a birthday holiday just for fun.
  • Dedicated Talent Development team.
  • Competitive annual profitโ€‘sharing contribution.
Search Firms

Search firm submissions are not requested nor considered at this time. All applicants must directly apply for consideration.

Inquiries

For questions regarding this position, please contact Michael Bastaki, Patent Recruiting Manager.

Morrison Foerster accepts applications for this position on an ongoing basis, until filled.

Palo Alto, CA annual salary range: $105,000 to $135,000.

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