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Lab Assistant Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Maintains awareness of changes in laboratory procedures, policies, and protocols. 7. Accountabilities specific for Chemistry Lab Assistant: Operates accessioning area according to written procedure.

Maintains awareness of changes in laboratory procedures, policies, and protocols. 7. Accountabilities specific for Chemistry Lab Assistant: Operates accessioning area according to written procedure.

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 ...

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 ...

May assist in generating lab reports for winemaking. Physical Demands/Qualifications * Must be able to ascend/descend ladders and stairs. * Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. * Requires the ...

SEASONAL LAB TECHNICIAN

Livermore, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $22.97/hr

May assist in generating lab reports for winemaking. Physical Demands/Qualifications * Must be able to ascend/descend ladders and stairs. * Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs. * Requires the ...

Quality Lab Technician Pay: $27.00 per hour Shift & Working Hours: 1st Shift; 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM ... Knowledgeable of the Feed Quality Management System (FQMS) and assist in maintaining the program.

Communicate test results to production staff and assist in developing and documenting corrective ... lab preferred) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities * Must have basic math skills * Must be able to ...

Lab Technician

Turlock, CA · On-site

$24.42/hr

Communicate test results to production staff and assist in developing and documenting corrective ... lab preferred) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities * Must have basic math skills * Must be able to ...

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Lab Assistant information

See Modesto, CA salary details

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Modesto, CA is $21.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $24.33 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.

What are lab assistants?

Lab assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, or instructors by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting routine experiments, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. They may also be responsible for recording data, managing supplies, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Lab assistants work in various settings, including educational institutions, research facilities, hospitals, and private laboratories.

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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced lab assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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?

Lab assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory procedures or safety. Relevant skills include attention to detail, basic knowledge of laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Some roles may also require familiarity with specific tools or software used in labs.

What exactly does a lab assistant do?

A lab assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing experiments, 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.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers or Principal Investigators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, or extensive experience generally offer higher pay compared to entry-level lab assistant 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA? For Lab Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Modesto, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 82% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,430 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Lab Assistant II

Lab Assistant II

Tenet Health

Modesto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Tenet Healthcare rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 344 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

722nd of 882 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Shift: Nights

Job Type: Full Time

Hours:

Reporting to the Laboratory Director, Operations Coordinator, Technical Supervisors and Clinical Laboratory Scientists, the Laboratory Assistant II Chemistry/Micro/BB/Pathology is responsible for correctly and efficiently performing technical procedures and Quality Control in one or more sections of the Clinical laboratory, operating and maintaining instrumentation as assigned, taking steps necessary to assure accurate reports, performing clerical and phlebotomy tasks as needed.  Note:  The Laboratory Assistant works under the direct supervision of a Clinical Laboratory Scientists, and all reports are reviewed and co-signed by a Clinical Laboratory Scientist. Every employee of the laboratory at Doctors Medical Center is expected to promote the mission and philosophy of the hospital by acting in a caring, courteous and confidential manner towards patients, visitors, colleagues, and staff by performing their duties and responsibilities according to the expected standards.  Every member of the Laboratory Staff is expected to perform their duties and to accept the responsibility of the accuracy of their work as dictated in their Professional Standards as Clinical Laboratory Scientists or Health Care Workers.  Staff members will maintain confidentiality of all reports, maintain the integrity of identification of patient samples and will perform designated tasks which will enable the laboratory to comply with all regulatory standards of Clinical and Anatomic Laboratories.                

Doctors Medical Center of Modesto Hospital is committed to providing exceptional patient care in a supportive and collaborative environment. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work with advanced technology and be part of a healthcare community dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of our patients.

At Doctors Medical Center of Modesto, we understand that our greatest asset is our dedicated team of professionals. That’s why we offer more than a job – we provide a comprehensive benefit package that prioritizes your health, professional development, and work-life balance. The available plans and programs include:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match
  • Generous paid time off
  • Career development and continuing education opportunities
  • Health savings accounts, healthcare & dependent flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance program, Employee discount program
  • Voluntary benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance, long term care, elder & childcare, auto & home insurance

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location and is determined by employment status

Doctors Medical Center (DMC), part of the Central Valley Doctors Health System, is the largest full-care hospital between Stockton and Fresno, and from the Sierras to the San Francisco Bay Area, with a 394-bed general acute care and a 67-bed inpatient psychiatric capacity. DMC is known for providing comprehensive inpatient, outpatient and emergency care. Doctors Medical Center offers a wide range of services including cardiology, neurosurgery, orthopedics, emergency and trauma services, minimally-invasive and robotic surgery, women and childrens services, medical/surgical, behavioral health, oncology and critical/intensive care. Join our team!

Position Qualifications

Minimum Education:High School graduate preferred.

Minimum Experience/Skills:One to two years' experience

Physical Demands:

  • Frequent walking, standing
  • Lift/position up to 30 lbs. Push/pull up to 50 lbs of force.
  • Reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching
  • Manual dexterity and mobility
  • Touch, auditory and visual perception and acuity
  • Adequate vocal pitch and volume

Vision Requirements:

  • Ability to read printed material, gauges, etc., clearly and accurately
  • Use of corrective lenses required if such lenses are needed to perform work correctly.


Working Conditions:

  • Regularly exposed to the risk of contagious and blood borne diseases, subject to varying and unpredictable situation, emergency and crisis situations, exposure to biohazard materials, increased stress due to multiple phones calls and inquiries

#LI-KB6

Position Accountabilities
1. If certified by the State of California as a Phlebotomy Technician (CPT 1 or CPT 2) is accountable for collecting blood samples from patients in a timely manner. Identifies the patient correctly before performing venipuncture or capillary collection of samples. Collects samples appropriate for the test requested. Maintains proficiency in the collection of capillary and venous samples. Accessions and processes patient samples while maintaining the integrity of the identification of the sample.
2. Performs moderately complex testing, as approved by the laboratory director. A CLS verifies work and reports. Accountable for producing accurate patient results. Properly identifies, accessions, and processes specimens. Operates laboratory instruments and performs manual procedures according to protocol as assigned. Efficiently and expediently performs procedures.
3. When performing moderately complex testing is accountable for assuring that quality results are generated. Properly performs Quality Control and verifies with CLS. Performs preventative maintenance as assigned. Checks any flagged values. Observes and troubleshoots irregularities in results and/or instrument operation and reports them to the Clinical Laboratory Scientists.
4. Accountable for providing clerical support to the section. Answers telephone in a courteous, professional and efficient manner. Answers questions and routes calls appropriately and takes proper messages. Utilizes the Cerner system to order, acknowledge, charge, cancel, etc. Controls inventory of the section assigned. Maintains Chemistry Accession area.
5. Accountabilities specific for Microbiology Laboratory Assistant: Properly identifies, accessions and processes specimens for routine culture. Anaerobic Culture, Fungal Culture, Acid Fast Bacillus Culture and Direct Smears, Ova and Parasite preparations and send-outs. Properly inoculates MIC's and ID systems. Properly disinfects work area and discards contaminated materials. Completes reports, files computer printouts and slides. Documents daily temperatures of all temperature dependent equipment. Stocks micro set-up area with supplies.
6. Accountable for job knowledge. Learns new procedures in allotted time. Retains knowledge with little or no review. Maintains awareness of changes in laboratory procedures, policies, and protocols.
7. Accountabilities specific for Chemistry Lab Assistant: Operates accessioning area according to written procedure. Documents daily temperatures of all temperature dependent equipment. Properly disinfects work areas and discards contaminated materials. Receives and processes specimens in the accession area of the laboratory to include maintaining the integrity of identification of the patient, labeling the specimen, centrifugation if necessary and distribution to the proper section of the laboratory. Properly identifies and processes specimens for send-out testing. Coordinates courier service for specimen pickup. Operates chemistry instruments according to written procedure, when applicable. Assists in the up-dating of specimen requirements as received from referral laboratories and communication changes to the Phlebotomy Supervisor and staff. Evaluates sample integrity and notifies CLS if problem (e.g., lipemia, hemolysis, icterus, or short sample). Processes supplies to their appropriate location and documents invoices and order sheets. Assists with POC limited support of operations.
8. Accountabilities specific for Transfusion Service Lab Assistant: Enters blood products received using Cerner computer system, makes tags for Inventory Board. Dispenses blood units and components to nursing staff. Defrosts frozen blood components when ordered for transfusion. Releases blood units from cross match. Thaws and pools units of FFP and CRYO when ordered for transfusion. Cleans thawing baths, automatic cell washers and Immucor centrifuge rotors weekly. Disinfects work surfaces and disposes of patient specimens properly. Centrifuges patient specimens and assures integrity of patient identification. Investigates patient transfusion history and records findings on Work Card. Prepares IGLOO for transport of blood to the OR or the ER. Receives returned IGLOO and completes documentation of final disposal of blood units. Changes temperature charts on all monitored equipment weekly.
9. Accountable for performing any other duties and functions necessary for the efficient and economic operation of the laboratory


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