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Entry Level Lab Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Planet Group

Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$38/hr

Lab Pack Chemist Starting Pay: Up to $38/hr depending on experience Location: San Jose CA Contract ... * Entry level - recent graduates accepted * Valid driver's license Ability to work as a member of a ...

CryoNova

Laboratory Technician

Watsonville, CA

$20 - $30/hr

This is an entry-level, part-time role with training provided and the opportunity to grow into a career as production scales. Responsibilities: ● Operate basic chemistry lab equipment and a rotary ...

C2Earth, Inc.

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell, CA · On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

... field/lab work count). * Progress toward California professional certification (GIT, EIT, PG, PE ... Competitive entry-level salary and benefits package. Flexibility: A healthy mix of field and office ...

Stanford Health Care

Patient Services Rep I

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $26/hr

The PSR I is an entry-level position with limited or no prior experience; under general supervision ... May handle and deliver requests for approvals requiring signatures or input, lab reports ...

All JobsLab JobsEntry Level Lab JobsEntry Level Lab Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Entry Level Lab information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$15

$27

$58

How much do entry level lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lab in Santa Cruz, CA is $27.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $30.00 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.

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

Securing an entry level lab position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a high school diploma or an associate degree, along with basic laboratory skills. Candidates with certifications, familiarity with lab equipment, and strong attention to detail tend to have better chances of employment.

What career paths start in an entry level lab?

Starting in an entry-level lab position can lead to careers such as laboratory technician, research associate, quality control analyst, or laboratory supervisor. These roles often serve as stepping stones to specialized fields like biomedical research, clinical laboratory science, or quality assurance, and may require certifications or further education in science or technology.

How do I start working in an entry level lab?

To start working in an entry level lab, obtain relevant education such as a high school diploma or an associate degree in a science-related field. Gaining basic laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training can improve your chances; applying for internships or entry-level positions through job boards is also common.

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 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 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 Santa Cruz, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lab jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lab jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:
What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Entry Level Lab jobs? Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Entry Level Lab job openings:
Entry Level Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lab job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,790 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Dental Lab Technician - Model

Williams Dental Lab

Gilroy, CA • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

MODEL ROOM

Status: Non-Exempt, Full-Time

Location: Gilroy, California

This position is in an entry level position in a busy Dental Laboratory. We are looking for someone who can participate in a team atmosphere, is a quick learner and can meet our attendance standards.

This position is Full time and requires the candidate to work 8:00AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday, with the ability to work overtime (early mornings, evenings and Saturdays).

This position’s primary responsibilities are:

  • Pouring impressions
  • Grinding, pinning, basing models
  • Daily cleaning of work areas
  • Ability to prioritize cases by due dates

Requirements

  • Detail oriented with strong time management and organizational skills
  • Highly motivated
  • Must be able to meet our attendance standards

Williams Dental lab offers excellent compensation and benefits package for full time employees. Benefits include

  • Medical insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Dental Reimbursement Program
  • Profit share retirement plan (an unmatched retirement plan)
  • Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays