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Entry Level Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Lab information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$49

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in California is $23.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist lab technicians by automating routine tasks such as data analysis and sample processing. However, lab technicians are essential for overseeing experiments, maintaining equipment, and applying critical thinking, making complete replacement unlikely in the near future.

What is an entry level lab job?

An entry level lab job typically refers to a position in a laboratory setting that requires minimal prior experience or specialized education beyond a high school diploma or associate degree. Employees in these roles assist with basic laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, performing routine tests, maintaining equipment, and recording data under the supervision of more experienced staff. These positions are often a starting point for a career in science, healthcare, or research, providing valuable hands-on experience and exposure to laboratory protocols and safety procedures.

What is the lowest salary for a lab tech?

The lowest salary for an entry-level lab technician typically starts around $30,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on location and employer. Salaries can increase with experience, certifications, and specialized skills such as proficiency with laboratory equipment or data analysis tools.

What jobs let you work in a lab?

Entry-level lab jobs include laboratory technician, research assistant, and lab aide. These roles typically require basic knowledge of lab equipment, safety procedures, and sometimes a relevant certification or degree in science or a related field. They involve tasks such as sample preparation, data recording, and assisting with experiments in scientific or medical laboratories.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level lab technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level lab technicians often face challenges such as adjusting to strict safety protocols, managing multiple tasks efficiently, and becoming familiar with laboratory equipment and procedures. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to actively participate in training sessions, ask questions when unsure, and maintain a well-organized workspace. Building strong communication with senior technicians and supervisors can also help in gaining confidence and improving technical skills over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lab Technician, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and typically an associate degree or relevant certification in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data entry systems, and software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills are vital for ensuring accurate results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What qualification do I need to work in a lab?

Entry level lab positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field like biology, chemistry, or health sciences. Basic skills in laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important; certifications like OSHA safety training can be beneficial.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lab vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level LabLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degreeAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentEducational, research, or clinical labsMedical, industrial, or research labs
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research facilitiesHospitals, biotech companies, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Lab vs Laboratory Technician

Entry Level Lab roles typically require basic education and involve assisting in lab tasks within educational or research settings. Laboratory Technicians often have similar credentials but may perform more specialized or technical duties in medical or industrial labs. Both roles serve as foundational positions in laboratory environments, with Laboratory Technicians generally having more hands-on responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab jobs in California? For Entry Level Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,394 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Entry Level Technician

Entry Level Technician

Alliance Technical Group

Wilmington, CA

$20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

New

Job description

Are you tired of technician or maintenance jobs that don’t offer you the career growth you are looking for? Do you want a job that offers more stability than turn around work? Would you want to learn a skilled trade in the oil and gas industry? How about a new career with a company offering training, opportunities to advance, and the potential for multiple pay increases in your first year? Apply for our Entry Level position with Alliance! As a Monitoring Technician, you will work in a rapidly growing industry protecting the environment and have the opportunity to learn and advance within our rapidly growing company. We offer a starting pay rate of $20.50/hr with a clear career path for upward mobility, paid time off, great benefits, and quarterly profit-sharing bonuses. Apply now!

During our comprehensive training process, you will learn the following responsibilities for the Entry Level Monitoring Technician (LDAR) position which are located onsite at our client sites:

  • Daily monitoring of components to detect leaking equipment (valves, pumps, connectors, etc.) which can be a source of emissions and volatile hazardous air pollutants
  • Perform and record calibrations on analyzers before use
  • Perform preventative maintenance and troubleshooting on analyzers
  • Identify and report changes to components while performing monitoring
  • Identify and report new or removed components while performing monitoring
  • Identify and report Audio Visual Olfactory (AVO) leaks, Open-Ended Lines (OEL)
  • Identify and report components with missing identification tags
  • Support leak repair activities at customer work sites as required
  • Complete Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) daily
  • Complete Equipment and Vehicle Inspections as required
  • Complete daily paperwork (job summary, component change forms, missing tags, etc) 
  • Attend and participate in daily toolbox meetings and scheduled safety meetings
  • Complete all safety and knowledge trainings as assigned

Requirements:

  • Ability to be on your feet for 8-10+ hours per day on uneven ground (concrete, rock, grass, mud/dirt, etc.), while wearing the monitoring backpack (weighing up to 25 lbs.) as well as carry other equipment as needed (ladders, water coolers, etc.)
  • Love being outdoors, working safely in all weather conditions
  • Ability and desire to climb stairs and ladders to high heights (up to 300ft)
  • Ability to understand and use hand-held device, and have some mechanical abilities (preferred)
  • Reliable transportation to the worksites is required

Key Benefits Include:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401(K) Plan with Competitive Match
  • Continuing Education and Tuition Assistance
  • Employer-Sponsored Disability Benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, & Bonus Floating Holiday (if hired before July 1st)
  • Profit Sharing or Individual Bonus Programs
  • Referral Program
  • Per Diem & Paid Travel
  • Employee Discount Hub 

Alliance Technical Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.

#ELLDAR

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