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Entry Level Lab Jobs in El Cajon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Palomar Health

CPT I

Escondido, CA

$23 - $34.52/hr

Basic college coursework with specialized vocational training Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months or successful completion of Palomar Health Lab Extern program Preferred Experience: * 2 - 3 years * 12 ...

Palomar Health

CPT I

Escondido, CA · On-site

$23 - $34.52/hr

Basic college coursework with specialized vocational training Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months or successful completion of Palomar Health Lab Extern program Preferred Experience: * 2 - 3 years * 12 ...

Labcorp

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Labcorp is seeking an entry level Medical Lab Technician to join our team in San Diego, CA Work Schedule: 2nd shift: This is a casual/per diem position; hours will be "as needed" the start and end ...

Labcorp

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Labcorp is seeking an entry level Medical Lab Technician to join our team in San Diego, CA Work Schedule: 2nd shift: This is a casual/per diem position; hours will be "as needed" the start and end ...

Labcorp

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Labcorp is seeking an entry level Medical Lab Technician to join our team in San Diego, CA Work Schedule: 2nd shift: This is a casual/per diem position; hours will be "as needed" the start and end ...

Martin Marietta

Quality Control Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY The Quality Tech. supports the California Market by performing entry-level ... Participate in occasional lab work for training, mix design support, and special projects.

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Entry Level Lab information

See El Cajon, CA salary details

$13

$25

$52

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in El Cajon, CA is $25.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level lab?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level lab technician?

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 are 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 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.

How to get started working in an entry level lab?

To start working in an entry level lab, obtain relevant education such as a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Gaining basic laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and certifications like OSHA safety training can improve your chances; some positions may also require background checks and on-the-job training.

Is it hard to get a job in an entry level lab?

Securing an entry level lab position can be competitive, but having relevant education such as a high school diploma or associate degree, along with basic laboratory skills and certifications like OSHA training, can improve chances. Entry level lab jobs often require attention to detail, familiarity with lab equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols, making some positions more accessible to new applicants than others.

What career paths start in an entry level lab?

Entry level lab positions often serve as stepping stones to careers in scientific research, quality control, laboratory management, or specialized fields such as microbiology, chemistry, or biomedical sciences. Gaining experience in lab techniques, data analysis, and certifications like OSHA or CLIA can help advance to technician, research associate, or laboratory supervisor roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in El Cajon, CA?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in El Cajon, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in El Cajon, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in El Cajon, CA are:

What cities near El Cajon, CA are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs?

Cities near El Cajon, CA with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:

Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in El Cajon, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,252 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

CPT I

Palomar Health

Escondido, CA

$23 - $34.52/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Palomar Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Department:

Laboratory-Clinical

Union:

CHEU

Shift:

8-hour Shift - Variable (United States of America)

Hours Per Pay Period:

64

Job Description:

Range: $23.00-$34.52

Posting Date: 8/21/2026

Internal Closing Date: 8/27/2026

* Internal candidates must apply by midnight on the Closing Date in order to have bidding rights.

Performs and demonstrates proficiency and understanding of the procedures to obtain blood specimens by venipuncture and capillary draws for all patient age group. Labels and processes specimens. Maintains, re-stocks and manages laboratory supplies. Demonstrates knowledge and skill in all phases of the 12-lead ECG machines. Must be able to perform 12-lead and 15-lead ECG's on patient population from neonatal babies to geriatric patients. Must take and complete the ECG class offered by the Cardiology department, covering the proper technique, storage and transmission of ECGs. Adheres to policies and procedures as directed by direct Supervisor, Manager and/or Director. Assists in training and orienting new employees. Interacts with internal/external customers in a professional and courteous manner.
Speak and read English at a level that is sufficient to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the position. Knowledge of standard office equipment (i.e., calculator, fax, photocopier) and personal computer and computer software skills (i.e., MS Windows, Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint, internet, e-mail). Windows computer skills including proficient use of keyboarding, use of mouse or keys for functions such as selecting items, use of drop-down menus, scroll bars, opening folders, copying and similar operations required upon employment or within the 1st two weeks of employment to perform the essential functions of the job. Performs other duties as assigned. Follows Palomar Health rules, policies, procedures, applicable laws and standards. Carries out the mission, vision, and quality commitment of Palomar Health.
Job Requirements
Minimum Education:As required by certification and/or licensure
Preferred Education:Basic college coursework with specialized vocational training
Minimum Experience:6 - 12 months or successful completion of Palomar Health Lab Extern program
Preferred Experience:

  • 2 - 3 years
  • 12-lead and 15-lead ECG experience

Required License:Valid CA State Phlebotomy License (CPT)
Preferred License:Not Applicable
Required Certification:Not Applicable
Preferred Certification:Not Applicable

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate against applicants or employees based on race, color, gender, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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