1

Lab Assistant Jobs in Davis, CA (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Lab Technician Location: West Sacramento - 95605 Duration: 12 Months Job Type: Temporary Assignment Work Type: Onsite Shift: Monday to Friday from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM Summary * This role ...

This Lab Technician role is dedicated to sample Receiving and Accessioning. Responsibilities Specimen Receipt and Verification: • Receive and log incoming specimens and samples. • Verify specimen ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lab Assistant information

See Davis, CA salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Davis, CA is $21.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $24.95 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 Davis, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Davis, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Davis, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Davis, CA are:
What cities near Davis, CA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Davis, CA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Davis, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,519 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Lab Assistant Certified

Methodist Hospital Sacramento

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$34.08 - $38.45/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities
As our Laboratory Assistant you will accurately and efficiently performs all necessary laboratory services, which may include but are not limited to, patient registration, test ordering, specimen collection, pre-analytical and post analytical specimen processing, communicating results or other relevant report data, and limited reporting functions. Processes all lab specimens with appropriate use of the hospital and laboratory information systems. May have access to needles or syringes from storage locations or patient care areas. Includes other duties as assigned in accordance with job function and hospital policy.
 
Every day you will utilize your expertise and our advanced technology to precisely collect, prepare, and process a diverse range of patient specimens (blood, urine, tissue, etc.) for various diagnostic tests.

To be successful in this role, you will possess a foundational understanding of laboratory procedures, demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, and maintain an eager commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Job Requirements

Required

  • Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory terminology, aseptic technique, laboratory tests and specimen handling and blood collection techniques as demonstrated by CAP required competency assessment and organizational requirements.
  • California CPT-1 or CPT-2 certification or other California state certification permitting phlebotomy.

Preferred

  • Lab Assistant/phlebotomist in an acute care hospital. One (1) year experience preferred.
Where You'll Work

Founded in 1973, Dignity Health - Methodist Hospital is a 158-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Sacramento, California. Serving over 80,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level II NICU, heart care, cancer care, women’s health, and neurology. Additionally, Methodist Hospital of Sacramento has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and is a Joint Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center.

One Community. One Mission. One California 

Qualifications:

Required

  • Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory terminology, aseptic technique, laboratory tests and specimen handling and blood collection techniques as demonstrated by CAP required competency assessment and organizational requirements.
  • California CPT-1 or CPT-2 certification or other California state certification permitting phlebotomy.

Preferred

  • Lab Assistant/phlebotomist in an acute care hospital. One (1) year experience preferred.
Employment Type: Seasonal/Casual/OnCall/Supplemental