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Entry Level Science Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Associate Scientist I

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$36 - $40/hr

... entry level scientists to support cell culture processes on an exciting contract opportunity in South San Francisco! Don't pass on the chance to gain industry experience within a market leading ...

New

Masters/Bachelors preferably in Computer Science, Engineering, MBA and also for the people who have ... JOB Title - Beta Soft Systems is looking to hire Entry level QA Engineers. ( ) Beta Soft Systems is ...

... buyer! Entry Level Software Engineer Why we need you We're at a pivotal moment with a roadmap ... Recent graduate (within 3 years) with a degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field ...

Entry Level Environmental Technician - Oakland, California Intertek, a leading provider of quality ... AS or BS Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Geology, Biology, Chemistry, or some ...

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Entry Level Science information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$12

$24

$35

How much do entry level science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level science in Berkeley, CA is $24.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.87 and $27.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can I do if I like science?

Entry level science jobs include laboratory technician, research assistant, quality control analyst, and environmental technician. These roles often require basic scientific knowledge, attention to detail, and sometimes certifications or training in specific tools or procedures. They provide hands-on experience in scientific environments and can lead to more advanced positions with further education.

What is the difference between Entry Level Science vs Entry Level Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level ScienceEntry Level Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, educational institutions, environmental agenciesMedical, clinical, or research laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, government agenciesHospitals, diagnostic labs, biotech companies

Entry Level Science roles typically require a bachelor's degree and involve research, data analysis, or educational tasks in various scientific fields. Entry Level Laboratory Technicians often have similar educational backgrounds but focus more on performing tests and maintaining lab equipment in clinical or medical settings. Both roles serve as foundational positions in the scientific industry, with overlapping skills but different primary responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level science professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Science professional, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field, strong analytical abilities, and foundational research skills. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as Excel or SPSS), and standard operating procedures is often required. Effective communication, attention to detail, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for collaborating on experiments and presenting findings. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable results, and seamless integration within scientific teams.

What types of projects or tasks can an entry level science professional expect to work on during their first year?

As an entry level science professional, you can expect to support more experienced team members by assisting with data collection, performing routine laboratory experiments, preparing samples, and maintaining accurate records. You may also help with literature reviews, equipment calibration, and basic data analysis. Collaboration is common, so you'll likely work closely with researchers, lab managers, and possibly cross-functional teams, gaining valuable exposure to the workflow of scientific research and development.

What careers can I do with entry level science?

Entry level science positions include roles such as laboratory technician, research assistant, quality control analyst, and environmental technician. These jobs often require basic knowledge of scientific methods, data analysis, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or fieldwork, and may lead to advanced roles with additional experience or certifications.

What is an entry level science job?

Entry level science jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the scientific workforce, typically requiring a bachelor’s degree or less experience. These roles can be found in various fields such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, and laboratory technology. Common duties include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining lab equipment, and supporting senior scientists. Entry level science jobs provide valuable hands-on experience and are a stepping stone for further career advancement in science.
What are the most commonly searched types of Science jobs in Berkeley, CA? The most popular types of Science jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Science jobs in Berkeley, CA? For Entry Level Science jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Science jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Science jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Entry Level Science jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Entry Level Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Science job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,932 per year, or $25 per hour.

Associate Scientist I

Orion Group

San Mateo, CA • On-site

$36 - $40/hr

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Associate Scientist I
$36 - $40/hr with medical benefits available at a cost
2 year contract
100% Onsite out of South San Francisco
Normal first shift lab hours, Monday - Friday (occasional weekend requirements to maintain active cell lines)
Orion Project Services and our largest US client are seeking entry level scientists to support cell culture processes on an exciting contract opportunity in South San Francisco! Don't pass on the chance to gain industry experience within a market leading pharmaceutical company.
Job Summary:
The Associate Scientist I will be a member of the CMC Biologics Cell Culture Development group, responsible for providing support for the development of novel biologics and bioprocess innovation projects, performing laboratory maintenance, and executing tasks to support departmental and project goals. The candidate should have experience with standard cell culture, biochemistry, and molecular biology techniques and is expected to clearly communicate scientific rationale, methodology and results in written and oral formats.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Follow established experimental protocols and assess results with supervision
  • Maintain a "can-do" attitude to complete innovative projects while being flexible in work priorities based on business needs
  • Perform routine tasks such as media/buffer preparation, thawing of cryopreserved cells, cell culture passaging, aseptic flask sampling, bioreactor sampling, and cell banking to support ongoing projects
  • Take routine analytical measurements for cell growth, culture gas-content, pH, osmolality, nutrient and metabolite measurements and HPLC analysis of antibody titers
  • Prepare bench top bioreactors and supporting equipment for sterile operation
  • Maintain instrumentation, consumables inventory and general cleanliness of a developmental lab to create a safe, effective and efficient scientific working environment
  • Display effective organization, verbal and written communication skills for effective explanation of experimental results, and adherence to good documentation practices
  • Weekend work to support bioreactor and other vessel sampling and feeding, as required
Qualifications:
Basic:
  • BS in Biological Sciences or Chemical/Biochemical Engineering or related field with 0-3 years of experience
  • Experience with aseptic technique, preferably mammalian cell culture
  • Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation (Vi-Cell, BGA, HPLC and Cedex Bio) and cell culture equipment (biosafety cabinet, incubators, and microscopes)
  • Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Preferred:
  • Experience in bioreactor operation and cell culture media preparation
  • Experience in single use cell culture tools employed in bioprocess development, including but not limited to deep well plates, shake flasks, ambr250 bioreactors, or other stirred tank bioreactors
  • Experience with programming (VBA, Python, Javascript, C++)
  • Understand statistical analysis using software (JMP, SIMCA, Minitab, Design Expert, R) and statistical design of experiments (DOE)
Physical Demands:
  • Capable of pushing heavy containers on wheels
  • Must be comfortable with physical activities of constant standing, walking, and sitting with arm stretching into biosafety cabinets for cell culture work and occasionally lifting 25 lbs

People are our business worldwide
Orion Group was founded in 1987 and is now one of the largest, independent, international recruitment companies. We have a network of 200 employees working from 24 offices, delivering a range of services - Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Outsourcing Services, Retained Search, Global Workforce Solutions, Completions & Commissioning and Materials Management - across 68 countries. As a global leader in workforce solutions, we recruit personnel across the Engineering & Technical, Office & Commercial, Scientific and Skilled Trades disciplines, for sectors including Oil & Gas, Life Science, Power & Utilities, Constructions & Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Renewables.