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Lab Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

KAGOME, Inc.

RO Lab Sensory Assistant

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$19.27/hr

Preferably one year food processing quality lab experience Skills and Abilities: Must have excellent oral and written communication skills. Possess the ability to convey technical applications to non ...

Kagome Inc.

RO Lab Sensory Assistant

Los Banos, CA

Preferably one year food processing quality lab experience Skills and Abilities: Must have excellent oral and written communication skills. Possess the ability to convey technical applications to non ...

Merced Community College

*Lab Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$5.2K - $6.6K/mo

Additionally, the role involves clerical recordkeeping, maintaining orderly facilities, and overseeing student assistants. By bridging lecture content with applied learning, the Lab Technician ...

New

Jackson HealthPros

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Turlock, CA · On-site

$2.4K - $3.1K/wk

Earn full time pay and benefits while you assist physicians and other Cath lab personnel in conducting vital diagnostic tests and procedures; and operate advanced medical equipment to capture crucial ...

New

Springboard Healthcare

Travel Cath Lab RN

Merced, CA · On-site

Travel As a Cath Lab RN, you'll assist with cardiac catheterization procedures, angioplasties, pacemaker implantation, and other cardiac care. Cardiac Cath Lab nurses must closely monitor the patient ...

Springboard Healthcare

Travel Cath Lab RN

Merced, CA · On-site

Travel As a Cath Lab RN, you'll assist with cardiac catheterization procedures, angioplasties, pacemaker implantation, and other cardiac care. Cardiac Cath Lab nurses must closely monitor the patient ...

Stability Healthcare

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Turlock, CA · On-site

$2.3K - $3.1K/wk

Cath lab technicians are vital team members who assist doctors during invasive cardiovascular procedures such as angioplasty, cardiac catheterization, and electrophysiology. 2 years of experience ...

New

Stability Healthcare

Travel Cath Lab RN

Merced, CA · On-site

Nurses who work in the cardiac catheterization lab (CCL) will assist the doctor in performing interventional procedures like cardiac catheterizations, valvuloplasties, and angioplasties. *$600 travel ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Merced, CA is $21.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $24.38 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 supervision, use tools like microscopes and lab instruments, and may need basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards.

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 Merced, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Merced, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Merced, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Merced, CA are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,473 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

RO Lab Sensory Assistant

KAGOME, Inc.

Los Banos, CA • On-site

$19.27/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Item % of Time Job Function
1 90 Sample Collection & Preparation, Analytical Laboratory and Organoleptic Testing;
60 Proper NTSS dilution of sensory samples
15 Coordinate sensory panel
10 Data collection and distribution
5 Proper sanitation of area before and after
2 5 Calibration, Maintenance & Troubleshooting as necessary.
3 5 Other duties as directed by the Quality Management.
Total 100
POSITION DIMENSIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Internal Contacts:
Direct contact with all Plant Management staff, Procurement and RO.
External Contacts:
Be diplomatic and clear as a Customer and Supplier liaison when required by Management.
Education Level and Focus:
Minimum high school diploma. Some college courses in a science field preferred.
Years and Type of Related Experience Required:
Preferably one year food processing quality lab experience
Skills and Abilities:
Must have excellent oral and written communication skills. Possess the ability to convey technical applications to non-technical personnel.
Technical and Analytical:
Must have excellent organizational and computer skills. Requires great attention to detail.
Administrative and Operations:
Reliable and punctual with reports and presentations. Possess good safety habits.
Physical Demands
Mix of office and laboratory work. Must be able to work extended hours on occasion.
Work Environment:
Some chemical fumes, good lighting, hot/cold and humid temperature, high noise levels, wet floors

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