Entrylevel Lab Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a dedicated Microbiology Analyst to join our team in supporting lab testing and quality initiatives within a regulated environment. This is a hands-on, lab-based role that involves working with microbiological testing to ensure product quality and safety across various life sciences industries.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine microbiology testing following SOPs and regulatory guidelines, including cGMP, GLP, and ISO standards.
• Execute tests such as sterility, bioburden, endotoxin (LAL), environmental monitoring, growth promotion, microbial identification/counts, and water and utility testing.
• Prepare media, reagents, and samples for testing.
• Maintain accurate documentation and laboratory records.
• Support quality control activities, audits, and investigations.
• Ensure lab cleanliness, equipment maintenance, and safety compliance.
• Assist with data reporting, inventory management, and continuous improvement efforts.

• Proficiency in microbiology and environmental monitoring.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation skills.
• Ability to follow SOPs and adhere to regulatory guidelines.

• Degree in Biology, Microbiology, or a related field with at least 2 years of laboratory experience; entry-level candidates are welcome.
• Exposure to GMP/GLP or regulated lab environments is preferred.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced laboratory setting.

This is an on-site laboratory role that requires standing for extended periods and working with lab equipment. The position may involve occasional off-hours or weekend work.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hercules, CA.

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $38.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Hercules,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 16, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.