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Entry Level Research And Development Jobs in California

R&D Technician

Sausalito, CA · On-site

$72K - $85K/yr

The R&D Technician supports the Research & Development team in the formulation, testing, and ... This is an entry-level role ideal for a candidate early in their food/beverage science career who ...

R&D operations employee

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$72K - $78K/yr

Hazera Job Title: R&D operations employee Job Location: Gilroy, Salinas Contract type: Permanent ... experience for entry-level candidates. * Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the ...

Internship

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

... entry-level careers within the company. * Real assignments with real software products * Hands on experience with development, test automation, research & development, supporting existing and new ...

Internship

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

... entry-level careers within the company. * Real assignments with real software products * Hands on experience with development, test automation, research & development, supporting existing and new ...

Internship

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

... entry-level careers within the company. * Real assignments with real software products * Hands on experience with development, test automation, research & development, supporting existing and new ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Research And Development information

See California salary details

$47.9K

$100.5K

$162.8K

How much do entry level research and development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level research and development in California is $100,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level research and development?

An Entry Level Research and Development (R&D) job involves assisting in the creation and improvement of products, processes, or technologies. Employees in this role often conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and collaborate with senior researchers or engineers. They may work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, technology, manufacturing, or consumer goods. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are essential for success in this position.

What does an entry level research and development do?

A typical day in an Entry Level Research and Development position often involves conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and assisting senior team members with ongoing projects. You may spend time in both laboratory and office settings, preparing reports and presenting findings during team meetings. Collaboration is frequent, with opportunities to work alongside scientists, engineers, and cross-functional staff to support product or process improvements. While each day may vary depending on project phases, you can expect a balance between hands-on experimental work and documentation or analysis duties. This role is ideal for those who enjoy solving problems, learning new techniques, and contributing to innovative solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in entry level research and development?

To thrive as an Entry Level Research and Development professional, you generally need a bachelor's degree in a science or engineering field with strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software, and technical documentation systems is often highly valued. Attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to communicate results clearly are important soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing experiments, troubleshooting issues, and effectively contributing to innovation within a team-oriented environment.

How to become an entry level research and development with no experience?

To become an entry-level research and development professional with no experience, focus on gaining relevant skills through online courses or certifications in areas like science, engineering, or technology. Internships, volunteering, or project work can also provide practical experience and demonstrate your interest in R&D roles.

Is it hard to get into research and development?

Entry level research and development positions typically require a relevant degree in a science or engineering field and strong problem-solving skills. Competition can be high, but gaining experience through internships, developing technical skills, and obtaining certifications can improve chances of entry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research And Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Research And Development jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Research And Development jobs in California?

For Entry Level Research And Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Research And Development jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Research And Development jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Research And Development jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Research And Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Research And Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,461 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Research Associate I (Protein Science & Analytics)

San Francisco, CA

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Role: 

This unique entry-level Research Associate I position offers the rare chance to work across two core teams, Analytics and Protein Science. You'll gain hands-on experience supporting protein development, purification, and analysis, while learning how these disciplines work together to drive innovation in precision fermentation. 

This is a great opportunity for someone early in their career who thrives in the lab, loves variety, and wants to learn fast in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

What you'll accomplish

  • Generate data through basic biochemistry/molecular biology techniques (including but not limited to BCA, SDS-PAGE)
  • Operate and maintain analytical equipment (e.g., HPLC-UV/RI and Combustion Analyzer, dynamic light scatterer, FPLC-UV, fluorescence/UV plate reader) 
  • Support protein characterization workflows through lab-scale protein powder generation involving bench-scale downstream processing unit operations (microfiltration, ultrafiltration, diafiltration)
  • Prepare samples, reagents, and buffers to support cross-functional experiments
  • Collaborate with scientists and engineers across teams to troubleshoot and iterate quickly as part of our Design, Build, Test, and Learn pipeline
  • Present results to the technology organization in regular meetings of scientific teams
  • Maintain lab organization, cleanliness, and proper documentation

 What you bring (required)

    • Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field
    • Some hands-on lab experience (academic, internship, or industry), with an emphasis on analytical instrumentation familiarity
    • A detail-oriented mindset exemplified in experiment note-taking, report writing, and communication of experimental results to team members
    • Comfortable with basic wet lab techniques (especially pipetting with single and multichannel pipettes) and eager to learn new ones
    • Collaborative, organized, and enthusiastic about working across teams

Why you'll love it here:

  • Comprehensive benefits: 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k matching, and stock options
  • Tasty perks: Weekly catered lunches
  • Customizable options: FSA, LSA, Commuter, Pet Care, and additional life insurance
  • Work-life harmony: Flexible PTO and 10+ paid company holidays per year
  • Onsite conveniences: Free parking and unlimited gym access
  • Energizing refreshments: Unlimited sparkling water, granola bars, snacks, local coffee, and tea
  • Exciting socials: happy hours and quarterly company outings
  • Open communication: Monthly all-hands meetings and direct access to CEO and leadership
  • Ideal location: Close to Daly City BART 

Pay Range: $75,000 - $85,000

At EVERY pay ranges are subject to change and assigned to a job based on the location specific market median of similar jobs according to 3rd party salary benchmark surveys. Individual pay within that range can vary for several reasons including skills/capabilities, experience, and available budget.