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Lab Assistant Jobs in Goleta, CA (NOW HIRING)

XPRT STAFFING INC

RN Cath Lab

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$600 - $1.0K/day

Cath Lab Nurses perform patient assessments, prepare patients for procedures, and assist physicians during diagnostic and interventional procedures such as angiograms, stent placements, and pacemaker ...

Clove Dental

Assistant Hillview

Ventura, CA

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Full-Time Dental Assistant -- Monday to Friday Full-Time | Ventura, CA Were looking for a reliable ... Monitor supplies and lab cases * Complete daily, weekly, and monthly logs * Call in prescriptions ...

Cottage Health

Clinical Lab Scientist I

Goleta, CA · On-site

$49.87 - $76.05/hr

Organizes time to prioritize, perform, and complete assigned tasks in order to meet lab-wide needs and deadlines. Demonstrates initiative by taking a lead role when appropriate. (5%) Qualifications ...

California Dermatology Group, PC

Be Seen First

Dermatology Medical Assistant

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

The Medical Assistant is considered an essential part of our ability to provide high-quality ... Administrative duties such as fielding phone calls, informing patients of their lab or pathology ...

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Lab Assistant information

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Goleta, CA is $21.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $24.90 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.
More about Lab Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Goleta, CA?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Goleta, CA are:

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

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

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

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

Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Goleta, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,439 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Quality Control Lab Technician II

Goleta, CA

Waters Corporation
Biotechnology Research and Development • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Waters Corporationexternal

$21.25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Waters Corporation is seeking a Laboratory Technician to join our Quality Control Laboratory at Wyatt Technology in Goleta, CA. Join Team Wyatt in developing extraordinary light scattering instrumentation and field flow fractionation systems for our customers’ research and development of novel therapeutics, including vaccines, gene vectors, nano-drug carriers, monoclonal antibodies, and other advanced pharmaceuticals.


  • Perform QC tests on state-of-the-art instruments.
  • Analyze test results.
  • Draft QC documents and procedures.
  • Maintain and service QC lab equipment.
  • Prepare chemical standard samples for testing.
  • Assist R&D and Software Engineering in development of new hardware and software products.

Education:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field

Experience:

  • Working familiarity with basic lab techniques and hand tools

Skills:

  • General computer skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word
  • Excellent organization and communication skills with an attention to detail

Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT)  is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, our innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across chemistry, physics, and biology. We collaborate with customers around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, ensure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combating antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, our passionate team of ~16,000 colleagues turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide.  

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our core values at Waters Corporation. It benefits our employees, our products, our customers and our community. Waters complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, marital status (including civil unions), military service, veteran status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, legally recognized disability, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Waters is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.


Quality Control
Laboratory
Technician
QC
Lab
Chemistry

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