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Lab Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cath Lab Tech - Travel Job

Turlock, CA · On-site

$2.3K - $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 ...

Dental Assistant

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$21 - $22.50/hr

Registered Dental Assistant RESPONSIBLE TO: Dental Clinical Manager DEPARTMENT : Dental Back ... with lab, and follow up with lab cases. 4.10 Utilize computer to access and obtain patients ...

Dental Assistant

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$21 - $22.50/hr

Registered Dental Assistant RESPONSIBLE TO: Dental Clinical Manager DEPARTMENT : Dental Back ... with lab, and follow up with lab cases. 4.10 Utilize computer to access and obtain patients ...

Cath Lab Tech - Travel Job

Turlock, CA · On-site

$2.3K - $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 ...

Cath Lab Imaging Tech III

Merced, CA · On-site

$52.75 - $71/hr

... assist physicians in diagnosing and treating patients with cardiovascular disease in the cath lab ... setting. Every day you'll independently operate all ancillary equipment in the lab including but ...

Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment * Promote and enforce a strong culture ... assistant"> The compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role ...

Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant lab environment * Promote and enforce a strong culture ... assistant"> The compensation details provided below reflect the expected pay range for this role ...

Cath Lab Imaging Tech III

Merced, CA

$2.4K - $3.2K/wk

... assist physicians in diagnosing and treating patients with cardiovascular disease in the cath lab ... setting. Every day you'll independently operate all ancillary equipment in the lab including but ...

Cath Lab Imaging Tech III

Merced, CA · On-site

$52.75 - $71/hr

... assist physicians in diagnosing and treating patients with cardiovascular disease in the cath lab ... setting. Every day you'll independently operate all ancillary equipment in the lab including but ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

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:
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.

Travel Nurse RN - Cardiac Cath Lab

First Connect Health

Merced, CA • On-site

$130/hr

Contractor

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

First Connect Health is seeking a travel nurse RN Cardiac Cath Lab for a travel nursing job in Merced, California.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Cardiac Cath Lab
  • Discipline: RN
  • Start Date: 08/31/2026
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 10 hours, days
  • Employment Type: Travel

🔥 HIGH-GROSS DAY-SHIFT CARDIAC CATH LAB RN CONTRACT – CALIFORNIA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

First Connect Health has an immediate 13-week travel contract opening for an experienced Cardiac Cath Lab Registered Nurse (RN) in Merced, California. Operating within a growing interventional cardiology department, this position offers a structured 4x10 daytime schedule (09:30 AM - 20:00 PM / 9:30am - 8pm; Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri schedule with Wednesdays off). If you are a seasoned Cath Lab nurse with circulating expertise, balloon pump knowledge, and strong clinical skills to assist in mentorship, this contract is tailored for you!

💰 PRE-CALCULATED PAY PACKAGE

  • Weekly Gross: $3,446.00
  • Weekly Tax-Free Stipend: $1,246.00
  • Hourly W2 Rate: $50.00/hr (32 regular hours)
  • Daily Overtime Rate: $75.00/hr (8 daily OT hours included under California labor guidelines)

📅 SHIFT & POSITION DETAILS

  • Schedule: Day shifts, 4x10-Hours (09:30 AM - 20:00 PM / 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM, scheduled Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri). Block scheduling configurations are not available.
  • Guaranteed Hours: 40 regular/OT hours guaranteed weekly.
  • On-Call Requirements: No call is currently required (possible call as needed). Call rate applies at $7.00/hr ($130.00/hr call-back rate).
  • Clinical Scope & Role: RNs circulate cases (scrubbing is handled by Cath Lab Techs). Case volume averages 0–6 cases per day, covering PCIs, peripheral vascular interventions, diagnostic caths, nephrostomy tubes, and IVC filters. Knowledge of intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABP) and STEMI protocols is a plus. Experienced candidates should be ready to assist in training new department nurses.
  • Systems & Equipment: Cerner EMR, Sensis, Merge documentation, and GE equipment.
  • Scrubs: Hospital-provided.

🚨 REQUISITE QUALIFICATIONS FOR SUBMISSION

  • Experience: Minimum 2 years of clinical Cardiac Cath Lab RN experience is strictly required. Proven experience circulating procedures and knowledge of balloon pumps are required.
  • Licensure: Active California State Board of Registered Nursing License.
  • Certifications Required:
    • American Heart Association (AHA) Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
    • AHA Basic Life Support (BLS)

WORK WITH FIRST CONNECT HEALTH

Avoid administrative processing delays on broad public job boards. Apply directly to this posting to lock in your file with our specialized cardiovascular recruitment team. We guarantee 100% upfront financial transparency, immediate document checklist mapping, and fast-track your profile straight to the account manager for prioritized presentation!

👉 Click "Apply Now" to complete your screening and secure your August start date!

📍 Location Details: Assignment is located in Merced, CA 95340. ⏱️ Assignment Timeline: 13-week contract running from August 24, 2026, through November 23, 2026. 📚 Orientation Modules: Required MyJourney learning modules will be assigned and completed during facility orientation.

About First Connect Health

At First Connect Health, we take pride in being a Joint Commission–certified healthcare staffing agency, headquartered in Newark, New Jersey. This prestigious certification is more than just a seal — it's a reflection of our commitment to excellence, safety, and quality in everything we do.

By meeting the rigorous standards set by The Joint Commission, one of the most respected accrediting bodies in healthcare, we've demonstrated that our processes, compliance, and patient care standards are aligned with the highest levels of quality in the industry.

But our dedication goes beyond certifications. Nurses choose First Connect Health because:

  • Trust and Transparency: We foster honest communication, timely updates, and full transparency throughout your placement journey.
  • Best Pay & Benefits: We offer industry-leading compensation packages, along with benefits that support your career goals.
  • Flexibility & Choice: Whether you're seeking short-term assignments, long-term contracts, or local opportunities, we provide the flexibility to suit your preferences.
  • Personalized Support: Our recruiters take the time to understand your needs, guiding you with care, respect, and responsiveness at every step.

When you work with First Connect Health, you're not just another number — you're a valued professional. Join a team that’s focused on your success, your well-being, and your future in healthcare.

Benefits
  • Sick pay
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Weekly pay
  • Referral bonus