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Fluorescence Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate

San Diego, CA · On-site

$43.50 - $48.50/hr

Perform routine analytical testing using HPLC/UHPLC platforms (sample and reagent preparation, instrument operation, maintenance, basic troubleshooting, and UV/Vis and fluorescence detection)

Monday-Friday 2pm-10:30pm This role is primarily focused on Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) testing and analysis, including wet laboratory processing, probe hybridization, fluorescence ...

Senior Research Associate

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$29.75 - $37.25/hr

Prepare tissue samples and perform fluorescence immunohistochemistry (IHC) and imaging using confocal microscopy. * Additional responsibilities as assigned. Basic Qualifications * Master's degree in ...

Showing results 41-60

Fluorescence information

See California salary details

$8

$25

$60

How much do fluorescence jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for fluorescence in California is $25.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $30.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are fluorescence jobs?

Fluorescence jobs typically involve using fluorescence techniques in scientific research or industry settings, such as in biology, chemistry, or medical diagnostics. Professionals in these roles may operate fluorescence microscopes, perform assays, analyze data, and develop new methods for detecting and studying fluorescent signals. These jobs are often found in laboratories, universities, hospitals, and biotech companies, and may require specialized training or education in the relevant scientific field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fluorescence microscopist?

To thrive as a Fluorescence Microscopist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, or physics, typically with a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree and experience in microscopy techniques. Familiarity with fluorescence microscopes, image analysis software (such as ImageJ or Fiji), and possibly certifications in laboratory safety are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with research teams. These skills ensure accurate imaging, reliable data collection, and meaningful scientific discoveries in biological and medical research.

What are some common challenges faced by fluorescence microscopy specialists in a research laboratory setting?

Fluorescence microscopy specialists often navigate challenges such as minimizing photobleaching and phototoxicity during imaging, optimizing sample preparation for clear signal detection, and troubleshooting issues related to instrument calibration and spectral overlap. Collaboration with researchers is key, as specialists may need to tailor protocols for specific experimental needs. Staying updated on evolving imaging technologies and software also helps specialists provide high-quality data and support to their teams.

What is the difference between Fluorescence vs Spectroscopy?

AspectFluorescenceSpectroscopy
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or physics; often involves specialized training in fluorescence techniquesRequires similar degrees; often involves training in various spectroscopic methods
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, biotech companiesLaboratories, research institutions, industrial settings
Industry UsageUsed for imaging, biomolecular analysis, and chemical detectionUsed for material analysis, chemical composition, and molecular interactions

Fluorescence focuses on measuring emitted light from excited molecules, often for imaging and detection purposes. Spectroscopy encompasses a broader range of techniques analyzing how matter interacts with electromagnetic radiation, including absorption, emission, and scattering. While both require similar educational backgrounds and are used in laboratory settings, fluorescence is more specialized for specific applications like biological imaging, whereas spectroscopy covers a wider array of analytical methods.

What job categories do people searching Fluorescence jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fluorescence jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Fluorescence job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,653 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Computational Chemistry / Theory Consultant

Astera

Emeryville, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Model electrostatic actuation and predict voltage-displacement and force behavior using methods such as Poisson-Boltzmann, molecular dynamics, or continuum modeling.

  • Model the nanomechanics of the device components, including stiffness, mechanical modes, and electro-mechanical response.

  • Predict experimental observables such as fluorescence distances, structural geometry, force-distance-voltage surfaces, and surface-attachment energetics, and generate comparison reports.


Job description

About Astera
Astera is a private foundation on a mission to steer science and technology toward an abundant future. We believe the coming years will bring an era of unprecedented scientific and technological advancement as exponential progress in AI converges with central advances in other fields to dramatically accelerate innovation. This inflection point provides an unparalleled opportunity to fundamentally rethink the institutions, systems, and tools that drive scientific progress.
Unlike traditional non-profit research organizations, projects supported by Astera operate like high-velocity startups, allowing us to focus on ambitious goals, match structure to problem, and attract strong technical talent and leadership. You can read more about our mission, vision, and programming here.
Position Summary
The Astera Institute is seeking a Computational Chemistry / Theory Consultant to provide the specialist molecular-simulation and theory for a nanoscale electrostatic actuator - the electrostatics that drive it and the mechanics of its moving parts (charged plate, force transmitter, and amplifying linkage) - and predict the experimental quantities the team measures on the bench. This position reports to Dr. Jeremy Barton (Astera Institute Resident, Project Lead). This is a contract position.
Responsibilities
  • Model electrostatic actuation - how an applied field drives the charged DNA-origami plate through an ionic solution and into a polymer cushion - using appropriate methods (e.g., Poisson-Boltzmann, explicit-ion molecular dynamics, or continuum modeling) to predict the device's voltage-displacement and force behavior.
  • Model the actuator's nanomechanics: the stiffness and mechanical modes of the plate, force transmitter, and amplifying linkage, and the coupled electro-mechanical response.
  • Predict single-molecule fluorescence (FRET) distances, expected structural geometry (for cryo-EM comparison), operational force-distance-voltage surfaces, and surface-attachment energetics, giving the experimental team a quantitative theoretical baseline.
  • Deliver prediction-versus-measurement comparison reports that flag where the device diverges from theory and guide the next design iteration.

Qualifications and Experience
  • PhD-level expertise in molecular simulation and interfacial electrostatics (e.g., Poisson-Boltzmann, explicit-ion molecular dynamics, or continuum methods) and in nanomechanics, ideally at bio-inorganic interfaces.
  • Judgment about which method fits which question - in particular, when coarse-grained structural models are and are not adequate for electrostatics.
  • Demonstrated experience predicting experimental observables (fluorescence, force spectroscopy, electrostatics) and validating them against measurement.
  • Availability for a project-based contract engagement from the program's start, working closely with the design and device-physics leads.

Location
This position is hybrid at our office in Emeryville, CA. Some travel may be required from time-to-time for in-person collaboration and work.
Compensation
This is a contract engagement. Compensation is a competitive contract rate, commensurate with experience and the agreed scope and duration of work.
Cultural Alignment
  • Surprising problem-solver - you love finding unexpected solutions to problems we don't even know we have, and see options where others only see constraints.
  • Bias to action - you launch and iterate on thoughtful experiments rather than waiting for perfect plans, and you're energized by novel problems.
  • High standards, internally driven - you hold yourself to the bar of building world-class public goods without benchmarking against others.
  • Operate with the highest levels of integrity, judgment, and stewardship - you treat residents, peers, and vendors with genuine respect for their time and contributions.
  • Embrace the tools that define great work today - Astera is building for an AI-driven future and equips the team accordingly; we see these as genuine force multipliers, not optional extras.