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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 Jun 22, 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.

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 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 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 cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,394 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Clinical Lab Technician - Invitae - Entry level

Clinical Lab Technician - Invitae - Entry level

Labcorp

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$28.39 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Labcorp rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 1,101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Labcorp is seeking aClinical Lab Technicianto join our Invitae Genetics lab inSan Francisco, CA.

Work Schedule: Sunday-Thursday, 3:00pm -11:30pm

Address: 1400 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103

Job Responsibilities:

  • Under supervision of licensed personnel, support diagnostic testing on patient specimens using a variety of molecular assays and platforms for Invitae, part of Labcorp
  • Assist licensed CLS personnel who are performing clinical test protocols using established procedures (in accordance with state regulations)
  • Identify any issues that may adversely affect the quality of test results and escalates these to appropriate representatives to ensure prompt resolution
  • Identify, prioritize, and prepare all clinical samples while ensuring viability and sample integrity throughout the test process
  • Maintain inventory and organization of specimen samples in the freezer
  • Prepare and label tubes and plates according to established protocols
  • Prepare clinical samples for testing and identify sample related issues
  • Assist coordinating documentation
  • Monitor and maintain consumable inventory including reagents and supplies for each of the laboratory workstations
  • Perform general laboratory, equipment, and benchtop clean-up
  • Prepare logs or other documents for routine testing or special assignments
  • Adhere to quality control guidelines to ensure integrity of laboratory specimens
  • Under the direct supervision of a licensed CLS, dispense pre-made and prequalified reagents/controls using a pre-programmed fixed volume measuring devices
  • Provide laboratory support in the maintenance and surface decontamination of general laboratory equipment
  • Maintain a safe work environment and wears appropriate personal protective equipment
  • Participate in continuing education credits

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in a Chemicalor Biological science, Clinical Laboratory Science, or Medical Technology

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 1 year or more of lab experience
  • 1 year or more experience with molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction and next generation sequencing (NGS)
  • 1 year or more experience working in a clinical diagnostics laboratory
  • 1 year or more experience working with liquid handlers or lab automation equipment

Additional Job Standards:

  • Understanding and familiarity with aseptic techniques and good specimen handling
  • Experience with SOPs,QAand QC standards
  • Strong computerskills; familiaritywith Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Excellent organizational skills and strong oral and written communication skills
  • Able to work in collaborative, flexible work environment
  • Able to work flexible hours, during training
  • Able to pass a standardized color blindness test

This is a great entry level opportunity to join an innovative laboratory and receive training that will help the individual grow in a career in the molecular diagnostics field.

**Pay Range: $28.39 - $35.00 per hour

Plus 2nd shift differential

All job offers will bebased on a candidate's skills andpriorrelevant experience, applicabledegrees/certifications,as well as internal equity and market data.

Benefits:Employees regularly scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week are eligible for comprehensive benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD/LTD, 401(k), Paid Time Off (PTO) or Flexible Time Off (FTO), Tuition Reimbursement and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.Employees regularly scheduled to work less than 20hours,Casual, Intern, and Temporary employees are only eligible toparticipatein the 401(k) Plan.Employees who are regularly scheduled toworka 7 on/7 off schedule are eligible to receive all the foregoing benefits except PTO or FTO. For more detailed information, pleaseclick here.

Labcorp is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer:

Labcorp strives for inclusion and belonging in the workforce and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind. We make employment decisions based on the needs of our business and the qualifications and merit of the individual. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), family or parental status, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, personal appearance, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic. Additionally, all qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable law.

We encourage all to apply

If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance using our online tools to search and apply for jobs, or needs an accommodation, please visit ouraccessibility siteor contact us atLabcorp Accessibility. Formore information about how we collect and store your personal data, please see ourPrivacy Statement.


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