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Lab Assistant Jobs in Duarte, CA (NOW HIRING)

CLS

Alhambra, CA · On-site

Provide technical guidance & instruction to Lab Assistant, students and other hospital personnel. Adhere to all applicable TJC, CDPH, and CMS regulations, including HIPAA, safety and infection ...

CLS

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$44 - $66/hr

Provide technical guidance & instruction to Lab Assistant, students and other hospital personnel. Adhere to all applicable TJC, CDPH, and CMS regulations, including HIPAA, safety and infection ...

Photo Lab Student Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE199424 Position Information Department or Unit Name Art Position Headcount 3 Position Title Photo Lab Student Assistant Academic Year ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Assistant information

See Duarte, CA salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Duarte, CA is $21.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Pay can also vary based on full-time or part-time status and the complexity of tasks performed.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under the supervision of scientists or technicians and may need knowledge of lab procedures and basic scientific techniques.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework in science. Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important. Certifications such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Duarte, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Duarte, CA are:

What cities near Duarte, CA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Duarte, CA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Duarte, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,218 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

$21.64 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The full-time Clinical Lab Assistant will support technical laboratory personnel in day-to-day operations of the Cytopathology Laboratory in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.

The incumbent will:

  • Prepare simple and complex reagents or media under direct supervision.
  • Receive, accession and triage patient specimens, blocks and slides.
  • Process GYN ThinPrep PAP specimens.
  • Accession non-GYN cases and process non-GYN specimens.
  • Monitor incoming phone inquiries and requests.
  • Identify and separate specimens to be referred to outside laboratories or analyzed by other USC laboratories.
  • Handle and dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols.
  • Maintain and organize laboratory supplies. Monitor inventory levels.

The Keck School of Medicine Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is one of the largest pathology departments in the United States. The Department aims to shape the future of pathology as it will be practiced in community hospitals, academic medical centers and clinical laboratories throughout the country. The Department is growing very rapidly and there is great opportunity for advancement in the Anatomic Pathology Laboratories.

The University offers a competitive salary package.

Shift: Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Hourly range

The hourly rate range for this position is $21.64 - $26.50. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Related Undergraduate Study
Combined experience/education as a substitute for minimum education

USC 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, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$151352.htmld

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880