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Lab Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sutter Health

Lab Assistant II

Burlingame, CA

$35.21 - $44.01/hr

Operates and/or uses basic pre-analytic lab equipment. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure privacy and safety while delivering optimal patient ...

Sutter Health

Lab Assistant Lead

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$36.97 - $46.21/hr

Organizes and coordinates the overall operation of the clinical laboratory phlebotomy and processing area, including staffing and work assignments of the phlebotomists, laboratory assistants, and ...

Sutter Health

Lab Assistant Lead

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$36.97 - $46.21/hr

Organizes and coordinates the overall operation of the clinical laboratory phlebotomy and processing area, including staffing and work assignments of the phlebotomists, laboratory assistants, and ...

Sutter Health

Lab Assistant Lead

Daly City, CA · On-site

$36.97 - $46.21/hr

Organizes and coordinates the overall operation of the clinical laboratory phlebotomy and processing area, including staffing and work assignments of the phlebotomists, laboratory assistants, and ...

Sutter Health

Lead Lab Assistant

Burlingame, CA

$38.82 - $48.52/hr

Organizes and coordinates the overall operation of the clinical laboratory phlebotomy and processing area, including staffing and work assignments of the phlebotomists, laboratory assistants, and ...

Sutter Health

Clinical Lab Assistant

Oakland, CA · On-site

$28.66 - $35.63/hr

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health! Organization: ABSMC-Summit Campus Position Overview: Receives and processes specimens in one or more sections of the laboratory. : These ...

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All JobsLab Assistant JobsLab Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Lab Assistant information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$12

$24

$36

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Berkeley, CA is $24.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $28.27 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.

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 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.

More about Lab Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Berkeley, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA? For Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Berkeley, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,565 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Lab Assistant II

Lab Assistant II

Sutter Health

Burlingame, CA

$35.21 - $44.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Sutter Health rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 314 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!

Organization:

MPHS-Mills-Peninsula Medical Center

Position Overview:

Collects blood specimens, as well as receives, handles and processes specimens for Laboratory testing. Interacts with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behavior. Receives, sorts and accessions specimens, assigning to appropriate pre-analytic and analytic workflow. Completes computerized tasks related to patient registration and/or test order entry, specimen collection, receiving and processing. Performs basic post-analytic tasks, including distributing reports, storing and/or retrieving specimens. Completes quality-related tasks such as documentation of work, maintaining a clean, stocked and safe work area, and monitoring pending work, as well as escalating priority work. Operates and/or uses basic pre-analytic lab equipment. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure privacy and safety while delivering optimal patient care.

Job Description:

EDUCATION:

  • HS Diploma: High School or General Education Diploma (GED) provided prior to start date


CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE:

  • CPTI-Certified Phlebotomy Technician I provided prior to start date

  • OR CPT II-Certified Phlebotomy Technician II provided prior to start date


SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
Knowledge and practice of standard principles, processes, procedures, and equipment related to:
1) ordering Laboratory testing,
2) collecting blood specimens,
3) compassionately and effectively interacting with patients,
4) handling and processing biological specimens routinely submitted to the Laboratory for analysis.
Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks.
1) Ability to organize and prioritize job duties and assigned tasks for completion within expected timeframes.
2) Ability to compassionately and effectively interact with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behaviors.
Workflow Management Ability to appropriately respond to:
1) fluctuations in volume,
2) unexpected situations or problems such as equipment or IS failure,
3) shift-to-shift hand-offs,
4) STAT test orders,
5) specimen integrity issues,
6) regular review of pending logs, priority assignments, etc.
Adherence to Practices & Procedures:
1) Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence.
2) Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.
Applied Job Knowledge, Critical Thinking & Problem Solving:
1) Solid critical thinking in applying knowledge and decision-making.
2) Knowledge of and ability to recognize and appropriately escalate complex and unusual deviations, problems, unusual occurrences and unexpected outcomes.
3) Effective verbal and written communication skills.
4) Ability to work in a collaborative setting where the communication of current, factual, and relevant work information is required.

Job Shift:

Days

Schedule:

Full Time

Shift Hours:

8

Days of the Week:

Variable

Weekend Requirements:

Every other Weekend

Benefits:

Yes

Unions:

No

Position Status:

Non-Exempt

Weekly Hours:

40

Employee Status:

Regular

Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.

Pay Range is $35.21 to $44.01 / hour

The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.

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