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Entry Level Scientist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Scientist information

See California salary details

$49.8K

$109.9K

$135.7K

How much do entry level scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level scientist in California is $109,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,300.00 and $135,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level scientist?

An Entry Level Scientist is a professional starting their career in a scientific field, typically working in research, laboratory analysis, or data collection. They assist senior scientists with experiments, documentation, and reporting findings. Responsibilities vary by industry but often involve conducting tests, analyzing results, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in science are essential. This role provides foundational experience for career growth in scientific research or applied sciences.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an entry level scientist?

As an Entry Level Scientist, your daily responsibilities can include conducting laboratory experiments, preparing samples, recording and analyzing data, and maintaining lab equipment. You will often support senior scientists with ongoing research projects and assist in troubleshooting experimental issues. Collaboration is common, as you may work closely with team members to share findings and ensure best practices are followed. This hands-on experience helps you build foundational skills necessary for career progression in scientific research or industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level scientist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Scientist, a bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline, proficiency in laboratory techniques, and a solid understanding of data analysis are generally required. Familiarity with lab equipment, software such as Microsoft Excel or specialized analysis tools, and laboratory safety certifications are often expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong collaboration and communication skills help individuals excel in this position. Mastery of these skills ensures accurate scientific results, safe lab environments, and effective teamwork in research or industry settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Scientist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Scientist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Scientist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,885 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist I/II

Kern Medical

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$47.01 - $69.80/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Kern Medical rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Kern Medical has been a community cornerstone since its founding in 1867. Today, we are an acute care teaching center with 222 beds, offering the only advanced trauma care between Fresno and Los Angeles. Kern Medical offers a range of primary, specialty, and multi-specialty services including high-risk pregnancy care, inpatient psychiatric services integrated with county mental health programs, and a growing network of outpatient clinics providing personalized patient-centered wellness care. Kern Medical cares for 15,500 inpatients and 125,000 clinic patients a year.
Compensation:
The estimated pay for this position is $47.0074 to $69.8007. The rates shown include a 6% premium pay (base= $-$ plus 6%). This reflects only a portion of the total compensation package for this position. Additional compensation may be available for this role through differentials, incentives, and bonuses. In addition, this position may be eligible for participation and company contributions into the Kern County Employees' Retirement Plan.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist I:
This is the entry level classification in the Clinical Laboratory Scientist series. Work is performed in accordance with established procedures and is reviewed by a supervisor. Promotions to Clinical Laboratory Scientist II are considered on a merit basis, subject to recommendation of the department head and approval by the Director of Personnel.
Essential Functions:
  • Performs a variety of laboratory tests and procedures with various types of specimens using specified laboratory techniques and methods.
  • Performs daily quality control functions and applies professional knowledge and judgement to routine and special procedures.
  • Operates various automate laboratory instruments and equipment.
  • Maintains records of examinations and findings; inputs and maintains clinical laboratory data utilizing computer hardware and applicable software.
  • Maintains effective professional work relationships with laboratory staff, other hospital departments and those contacted in the performance of required duties.
Other Functions:
  • Performs other related duties as required.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist II:
This is the experienced or journey worker level in the Clinical Laboratory Scientist series. Incumbents in this class perform a full workload of duties and responsibilities and assist in the training of new employees.
Essential Functions:
  • Performs a variety of laboratory tests and procedures with various types of specimens using specified laboratory techniques and methods.
  • Performs daily quality control functions and applies professional knowledge and judgment to routine and special procedures.
  • Operates various automated laboratory instruments and equipment.
  • Maintains records of examinations and findings; inputs and maintains clinical laboratory data using computer hardware and applicable software.
  • Maintains work performance records, assists in the teaching of Medical Technology students.
  • Maintains effective professional work relationships with laboratory staff, other hospital departments and those contacted in the performance of required duties.
  • Assists in training and orientation of new employees.
  • Attends relevant conferences and educational functions.
Other Functions:
  • Performs other job related duties as required.

Employment Standards
Clinical Laboratory Scientist I:
Possession of a valid license to practice as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist in the State of California.
OR
Possession of a valid license issued by the state of California limited to specialization in Clinical Chemistry, Clinical Microbiology, or Clinical Immunohematology.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist II:
One year of experience as a licensed scientist, or specially licensed scientist, in a hospital or public health laboratory.
Possession of a valid license to practice as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist in the State of California.
OR
Possession of a valid license issued by the State of California limited to specialization in Clinical Chemistry, Clinical Microbiology, or Clinical Immunohematology.
Knowledge of:
The principles, methods and techniques of laboratory work; current computer software applicable to maintaining clinical laboratory data.
Ability to:
Perform a variety of laboratory tests and procedures with accuracy and attention to detail; demonstrate knowledge of current instrumentation and methodology; maintain accurate records; operate computer hardware; utilize applicable software to input and maintain clinical laboratory data; utilize applicable software to input and maintain clinical laboratory data; understand and follow oral and written instructions; maintain effective working relationships with staff and those contacted in the performance of required duties.
Supplemental:
A background check may be required for this classification.
All Kern Medical employees are designated "Disaster Service Workers". In the event of a disaster or civil disorder, all Kern Medical employees are to remain at work or to report to work in a safe and practicable manner.
If position responsibilities require driving a personal vehicle, then possession of a current valid California Driver's License and adherence to the Kern County Hospital Authority Vehicle Use and Driving Standard Policy (ENG-EC-119) is required.
If position responsibilities require driving a vehicle owned, leased or rented by Kern Medical, then possession of a current valid California Driver's license, a signed authorization for Release of Drivers Record Information and adherence to the Kern County Hospital Authority Vehicle Use and Driving Standard Policy (ENG-EC-119) is required.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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