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Junior Lab Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... talented and certified Assistant Concrete Lab Manager to join our Austin team. We offer ... In this role, you will primarily be responsible for the quality control and supervision of junior ...

... and certified Assistant Lab Manager to join our Austin team. We offer opportunities for ... In this role, you will primarily be responsible for the quality control and supervision of junior ...

... talented and certified Assistant Concrete Lab Manager to join our Austinteam. We offer ... In this role, you will primarily be responsible for the quality control and supervision of junior ...

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Junior Lab Assistant information

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$19K

$52.5K

$88K

How much do junior lab assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior lab assistant in the United States is $52,462.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data entry systems, and basic software like Microsoft Excel is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure the accuracy and safety of lab procedures, supporting reliable research and daily operations.

What typical challenges might a Junior Lab Assistant face when learning to maintain laboratory equipment?

As a Junior Lab Assistant, you may encounter challenges in understanding the proper handling and calibration of complex laboratory equipment, especially when you are new to the environment. Each instrument may have specific maintenance protocols, and mistakes can impact research outcomes. However, most labs provide hands-on training and mentorship from senior staff, so being proactive in asking questions and carefully following standard operating procedures can help you quickly build confidence and competency.

What does a Junior Lab Assistant do?

A Junior Lab Assistant supports scientists and senior lab staff by performing routine laboratory tasks such as preparing samples, organizing equipment, cleaning workspaces, and recording data. They help ensure that experiments run smoothly by maintaining an organized and safe laboratory environment. Junior Lab Assistants may also assist with basic experiments and handle administrative tasks, making them an essential part of the lab team. This role is often entry-level and provides valuable hands-on experience for those interested in scientific research or laboratory work.

What is the difference between Junior Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectJunior Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or relevant certification in laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentEducational, research, or clinical labs; supervised settingClinical, research, or industrial labs; more independent tasks
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research centers, hospitalsHospitals, biotech firms, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry-level, support roles in labsTechnical, more specialized lab work

The main difference between a Junior Lab Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Junior Lab Assistants typically have a high school diploma and perform basic support tasks under supervision, while Laboratory Technicians usually hold an associate degree and handle more technical, independent duties. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings, but Laboratory Technicians often require more specialized training and experience.

More about Junior Lab Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Junior Lab Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Junior Lab Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Junior Lab Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Junior Lab Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Junior Lab Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,462 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Sil Lab - Junior/Assistant

Sil Lab - Junior/Assistant

University of California, San Francisco

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Application Window
Open date: June 4, 2025
Most recent review date: Friday, Jul 25, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.
Final date: Friday, Dec 4, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
Sil Lab - Junior/Assistant
SCHOOL OF MEDICINE - Microbiology and Immunology
Description
The Sil lab is seeking a highly-motivated and detail-oriented Junior/Assistant Specialist to join our group and support research in the basic biology of fungal pathogens. The candidate will work closely with postdoctoral fellows and other lab members to investigate novel biology in fungal development. We take a number of molecular approaches, including genetics and genomics, with a focus on RNA biology. The candidate will be expected to generate genetic tools and conduct microbiology and molecular biology techniques, including fungal culturing, cloning, protein purification, and biochemical assays. An exceptional candidate will lead their own independent project, develop new ideas, be familiar with the literature, and participate in procurement of funds, where appropriate. Additionally, the specialist will be expected to assist with managing day-to-day lab operations, and perform general lab duties and be a positive lab citizen.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Conducting molecular and cell biology experiments, such as PCR, qPCR, in vitro transcription, cloning, gel electrophoresis, immunoprecipitations, Northern and Western blotting
  • Aseptically culturing fungal cell lines and performing genetic manipulations using CRISPR-Cas9
  • Preparing RNA and DNA libraries for next-generation sequencing
  • Microscopic analysis of fungal cells
  • Collecting, analyzing, and presenting experimental data

Required Qualifications:
  • Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities.
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines.
  • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a bachelor's degree (or equivalent degree) or four years of research experience to be appointed at the Junior rank.
  • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a master's degree (or equivalent degree) or a bachelor's degree with three or more years of research experience to be appointed at the Assistant rank.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience with handling pathogenic microbes, aseptic techniques
  • Prior experience with BSL2/BSL3 biocontainment
  • Prior experience in the design and assembly of DNA constructs
  • Prior experience in molecular genetics and biology (i.e. gene knockouts, epitope tagging, immunoprecipitation, protein-protein interactions)
  • Prior experience with RNAseq and library prepration
  • Familiarity with RNA biology, gene expression assays, Western blotting
  • Prior experience working in a research lab with fungi

We are seeking at least a 2-year commitment. Depending on performance and workload, opportunities for independent research, mentorship of other trainees, and scientific writing will be available.
Applicants must meet requirements by the time of appointment.
Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF05611
Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
  • Cover Letter (Optional)
  • Statement of Research (Optional)
  • Statement of Teaching (Optional)

Reference requirements
  • 2 required (contact information only)

About UC San Francisco
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
UCSF is committed to welcoming and serving all people, honoring the dignity of every individual without preference or prejudice, in support of its public mission and in alignment with our PRIDE values and Principles of Community.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
โ€ข "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
โ€ข UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
โ€ข UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
โ€ข APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment
Job location
San Francisco, CA