1

Lab Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Lab Assistant III is responsible for compliance with the quality control and proficiency testing regulation. The Lab Assistant III performs routine laboratory tasks related to processing whole ...

One California As our Lab Assistant, you will play a crucial role in solving diagnostic mysteries, bringing us one step closer to effectively treating patient illnesses and injuries. Every day, you ...

$27 - $28/hr

OVERVIEW OF POSITION The Lab Assistant is a part-time non-exempt position reporting to the Science Department Chair. The Lab Assistant supports the high school science faculty by preparing and ...

Posting Details Position Information Position Title General Lab Assistant Position Type Temporary Job Number SA73124 Full or Part Time part-time 0-19 hours weekly Fair Labor Standard Act ...

Position Information Position Title General Lab Assistant Position Type Temporary Job Number SA73124 Full or Part Time part-time 0-19 hours weekly Fair Labor Standard Act Classification Non-Exempt ...

Lab Assistant - 21268

Vista, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Lab Assistant - Simply Biotech OVERVIEW Are you looking for a new career opportunity with an exciting biotech company?! Then we have got the right team for you! In this role, you are responsible for ...

New

Lab Assistant

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

GSD is currently seeking a Full-time Lab Assistant to join our Laboratory based in Walnut Creek, CA. ***Shift Times are 3am-11:30am*** * Perform all clerical duties associated with the histology ...

The primary responsibility of the Lab Assistant is to follow and maintain the Art Studio Lab's Policy and Procedure to ensure a safe workspace for all. The Art Department Labs include Sculpture ...

Lab Tech Assistant 1

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

The primary responsibility of the Lab Assistant is to follow and maintain the Art Studio Lab's Policy and Procedure to ensure a safe workspace for all. The Art Department Labs include Sculpture ...

Lab Assistant

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

GSD is currently seeking a Full-time Lab Assistant to join our Laboratory based in Walnut Creek, CA. ***Shift Times are 3am-11:30am*** * Perform all clerical duties associated with the histology ...

One California As our Lab Assistant you will support scientific professionals by preparing samples, and maintaining specliaized equipment. Every day you will perform, routine maintenance and repair ...

Lab Assistant

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$34.24 - $42.78/hr

One California Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Lab Assistant you will support scientific professionals by preparing samples, and maintaining specliaized equipment. Every day you will perform ...

Lab Assistant

Camarillo, CA

$34.24 - $42.78/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Lab Assistant you will support scientific professionals by preparing samples, and maintaining specliaized equipment. Every day you will perform, routine ...

Lab Assistant

Camarillo, CA

$34.24 - $42.78/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Lab Assistant you will support scientific professionals by preparing samples, and maintaining specliaized equipment. Every day you will perform, routine ...

The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for providing day to day administrative and clinical ... Assists in maintaining lab equipment performance by assisting with quality standards, safety and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lab Assistant information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in California is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and ensuring the accuracy of data collection. To manage these effectively, it's important to stay organized, communicate proactively with supervisors and colleagues, and remain attentive to details when handling samples or preparing equipment. Many labs offer training on safety and procedures, so taking advantage of these resources can help new hires adapt quickly and perform confidently in their roles.

What are lab assistants?

Lab assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or instructors by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting routine experiments, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. They may also be responsible for recording data, managing supplies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Lab assistants work in various settings, including educational institutions, research facilities, hospitals, and private laboratories.

What Is a Lab Assistant?

As a laboratory assistant or lab technician, you are responsible for helping scientists conduct experiments in a laboratory environment. You may be asked to prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment and log readings and results. Your responsibilities may also include performing basic analyses of samples and recording results accurately. Your responsibilities will vary based on the type of lab you work in, but compliance with protocols and commitment to safety and accuracy are critical in any lab.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced lab assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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

To thrive as a Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and often an associate degree or relevant coursework in science. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and proper sample handling techniques is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain lab safety standards, and support smooth laboratory operations.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

Lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory procedures or safety. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Some roles may also require familiarity with specific tools or software used in labs.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing experiments, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, or extensive experience generally offer higher pay compared to entry-level lab assistant roles.

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

AspectLab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, healthcare facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with sample collection, prepare specimens, maintain lab equipmentPerform complex tests, analyze samples, report results
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and research settingsPrimarily in medical diagnostics and healthcare

While both roles support laboratory operations, Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more advanced testing and require specialized education. Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support lab staff, making them entry-level positions in healthcare labs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Lab jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,562 per year, or $20 per hour.

Lab Assistant III

Opendoorhealth

Willow Creek, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Committed to Our Community in the Heart of the Redwoods. Removing Barriers to Healthcare Access

WCCHC Willow Creek Community Health CenterThe Lab Assistant III at Open Door Community Health Centers (ODCHC) is responsible and accountable for the overall daily coordination of the lab under the direct supervision of the Lab Manager and the Administrative Site Director. The Lab Assistant III is responsible for compliance with the quality control and proficiency testing regulation. The Lab Assistant III performs routine laboratory tasks related to processing whole blood and blood components, capillary blood collection, back office testing, microscopy, results entry, and other related tasks as assigned. This position requires a certified phlebotomy technician (CPT I or CPT II), LVN, or a Certified Medical Assistant.

Our lab assistant hourly wage ranges are listed below. All new hires will start at the base wage for the position. Certification and other requirements may be required to be hired at a higher step on our Lab Assistant ladder.

Lab Assistant II - $27.00 to $31.19

Lab Assistant III - $29.00 to $33.52

Hmong and Spanish speakers who successfully pass a language exam will receive a minimum of .75 cents added to their wage.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Coordinates the daily lab activities.
  • Notifies supervisor if the testing environment is inappropriate for testing performed in the lab.
  • Notifies laboratory supervisor of any variations from standard procedures.
  • Assures the quality control policies and procedures are followed.
  • When necessary, takes and documents necessary remedial action as first responder to problem reports.
  • Venipuncture.
  • Completes necessary referral forms and processes specimens collected in the clinic for submission to reference lab for testing, including appropriate storage of the specimens until pick-up.
  • Processes and examines microscopic urinalyses, wet-mount slide preparations and stains.
  • Keeps accurate, complete, and appropriate records of all specimens handled in the lab.
  • Logs and distributes incoming reports.
  • Performs quality control testing at specified intervals.
  • Performs general housekeeping in lab.
  • Attends lab and clinical staff meetings as requested.
  • Performs in-house tests.
  • Uses the Electronic Medical Records (EMR), EPIC, to enter results, follow up on overdue results, and respond to messages related to patient care.
  • Correctly bills various payers.
  • Maintains inventory and orders supplies for the lab.
  • Instructs patients for collection of stool or urine.
  • Participates in split sample analysis.
  • Completion of quizzes and/or skills checklists to document competency.
  • Saturday lab rotation (when applicable).
  • Other duties and responsibilities as designated by supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPECTATIONS:

  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish constructive professional working relationships among a diverse workforce.
  • Ability to work as a team lead, alongside other Lab Assistants, and independently as needed.
  • Ability to train, mentor, and motivate Lab Assistant I and Lab Assistant II employees to meet job requirements.
  • Ability to handle difficult or confrontational situations in a calm, consistent, and equitable manner.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to accurately enter patient results on the lab worksheet and in the Electronic Medical Records (EMR).
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret moderately complex documents.
  • Ability to effectively represent ODCHC's interests in the community and maintain effective working relationships among co-workers, public, private, and professional groups.
  • Strong computer skills with specific aptitude in Microsoft Office Suite and/or Electronic Medical Records (EMR).
  • Adheres to ODCHC's policies and procedures.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Two years of experience in a similar role; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

  • Current CPR certification.
  • Ability to maintain a current as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT I or CPT II), Licensed Vocational Nurse, or Certified Medical Assistant.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None.

SUPERVISION AND SUPPORT: The Lab Assistant III reports directly to the Lab Manager and is an integral member of the Lab team. The Lab Assistant I is administratively supervised by the Administrative Site Director of their site location.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical requirements described are representative of those needed to successfully perform the essential duties of the position. Reasonable accommodation will be made to allow otherwise qualified candidates to perform these functions.

  • Ability to communicate via telephone, video, and/or in-person.
  • Vision adequate to read documents, computer screens, forms.
  • Ability to remain stationary for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift, carry, or otherwise move up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to use keyboard and view computer screens for extended periods.
  • Ability to travel locally and long-distance as needed.
  • Ability to move around offices and clinics as needed.