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Lab Assistant Jobs in Goleta, CA (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Assistant II

Goleta, CA · On-site

$24.57 - $36.58/hr

Pacific Diagnostic Laboratories, LLC seeks a Laboratory Assistant II for their PDL Cytology Lab department responsible for the front-end, pre-analytical operations in their area of responsibility.

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 ...

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$2.5K - $3.3K/wk

Specialty: Cath Lab Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: ASAP ... Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing ...

New

This internship blends hands-on lab readiness activities (GLP/GMP, stocking, cleaning, equipment ... Operate, calibrate, and help maintain laboratory equipment; assist with troubleshooting and ...

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 ...

QC Laboratory Technician

Buellton, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

The QC Lab Technician collects, processes, and tests samples from raw materials (RAW), work-in ... inspections. Assist the Quality Leadership Team, as a backup auditee for the Quality Control ...

QC Laboratory Technician

Buellton, CA

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

The QC Lab Technician collects, processes, and tests samples from raw materials (RAW), work-in ... inspections. Assist the Quality Leadership Team, as a backup auditee for the Quality Control ...

QC Laboratory Technician

Buellton, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

The QC Lab Technician collects, processes, and tests samples from raw materials (RAW), work-in ... inspections. Assist the Quality Leadership Team, as a backup auditee for the Quality Control ...

... lab samples (ex: covid testing). Our Medical assistant will need to rely on their technical skills, so they understand how to use the equipment to take guest vital signs. They should also be detail ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Goleta, CA salary details

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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.

Is it hard to become a lab assistant?

Becoming a lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with some knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education or certifications in relevant fields, and strong attention to detail and organizational skills are important for success in the role.

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 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 in safety or specific techniques can enhance job prospects.

What are the duties of a lab assistant?

A lab assistant is responsible for preparing laboratory equipment and samples, maintaining a clean and organized work environment, and assisting scientists or technicians with experiments and data collection. They may also handle inventory management, record keeping, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Proficiency with lab tools and attention to detail are essential for this role.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Goleta, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,439 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Lab Assistant/ Phlebotomist

Actalent

Santa Barbara, CA

$28/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Phlebotomist/ Lab Assistant

Overview

We’re seeking a Lab Assistant / Phlebotomist to join our clinic team. In this role, you’ll work directly with patients, perform blood draws, and support daily lab operations. You’ll collaborate with medical staff to ensure accurate testing and timely results, helping deliver high-quality, patient-centered care.

Key Responsibilities

  • Draw blood and collect patient specimens
  • Prepare and process samples for testing or external labs
  • Record and update patient information in the electronic health record (EHR)
  • Perform finger sticks and TB skin tests
  • Administer injections and immunizations (as permitted by law and verified by a provider)
  • Conduct basic in-house lab tests (CLIA-waived tests)
  • Monitor and document patient reactions to skin tests and report concerns to providers
  • Maintain quality control for all in-house lab testing
  • Support overall clinic workflow and patient care

Qualifications

  • Valid California Phlebotomy License
  • At least 1 year of phlebotomy or lab experience
  • Experience in a healthcare or clinical setting
  • Bilingual in Spanish

Work Environment

Onsite clinic setting with a supportive, team-oriented environment and opportunities for growth

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Santa Barbara, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Santa Barbara,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 12, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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