ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Lab Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cypress HCM

Accessioning Technician

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

Accessioning Technician Responsibilities: * Receives and sorts specimens for testing * Reviews all requisitions for missing information, works closely with Customer Care to obtain missing information ...

Intellectt INC

Chemist/ Jr Lab Technician

Pomona, CA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

This entry-level opportunity is ideal for recent graduates or professionals with up to two years of laboratory experience who are looking to build their careers in a regulated manufacturing ...

Marquee Staffing - OC

Be Seen First

Medical Device Assembly Technician 1 Second Shift

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

We are looking for a Medical Device Assembler Entry Level Welcome to apply. Location Irvine. Pay ... Works in a Lab, Clean Room, and Warehouse environment, within a well-lighted work area with good ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Irvine, CA

Entry Level Lab information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$14

$25

$53

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Irvine, CA is $25.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $27.69 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 Irvine, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lab jobs in Irvine, CA? For Entry Level Lab jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Irvine, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Irvine, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,430 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Accessioning Technician I (Temp), Overnights

NeoGenomics

Aliso Viejo, CA

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

NeoGenomics rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

Are you motivated to participate in a dynamic, multi-tasking environment? Do you want to join a company that invests in its employees? Are you seeking a position where you can use your skills while continuing to be challenged and learn? Then we encourage you to dive deeper into this opportunity.

NeoGenomics is looking for anAccessioning Technician for our lab in Aliso Viejo, CAwho wants to continue to learn in order to allow our company to grow.

This is a Temporary-status opportunity working a full-time schedule of Monday-Friday, 9:00pm-5:30am (subject to change based on business needs). Temp-status workers carry out their duties via a third-party agency and are not official employees of NeoGenomics.

Now that you know what we're looking for in talent, let us tell you why you'd want to work at NeoGenomics:

As an employer, we promise to provide you with a purpose driven mission in which you have the opportunity to save lives by improving patient care through the exceptional work you perform. Together, we will become the world's leading cancer reference laboratory.

Position Summary:

The Accessioning Technician will ensure proper handling of all specimens received and prepare specimens for laboratory testing. This position includes such functions as matching patient information, data entry, aliquoting, and scanning documents. This is entry level in the Accessioning job category, and employees perform the full range of specimen processing procedures.

Responsibilities:

  • Receives and sorts specimens for testing
  • Reviews all requisitions for missing information, works closely with Client Services to obtain missing information in a timely manner and distributes new information to all departments involved
  • Timely and accurately enters data into LIS, label samples and create folders, generate specimen travel documents, and forwards respective sample to personnel/departments
  • Assembles case paperwork and files, including pre-analytic documentation and labels
  • Performs entry of add-on testing and coordinates split specimens
  • Sends out specimens to appropriate reference laboratories by coordinating the shipment process, maintaining client communication, and generating the necessary logs
  • Performs quality assurance checks of samples
  • Utilize chain of custody logs for slides and blocks, ensure appropriate chain of custody for blocks and slides is followed. Oversee Q/C workflow and reconciliation of blocks and the block log
  • Identify and report any quality or compliance concerns and take immediate corrective action as required

Experience, Education and Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ years of experience equivalent to an Accessioning Technician preferred
  • Proficient with MS Office programs
  • Ability to communicate effectively
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently
  • Must be able to work in a fast paced, multi-tasking environment and maintain production and quality standards
  • Must be able to work in a biohazard environment and comply with safety policies and standards outlined in the Safety Manual.

What NeoGenomics employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply