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Lab Assistant Jobs in Novato, CA (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Assistant II

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$30.93 - $38.46/hr

Operates and/or uses basic pre-analytic lab equipment. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure privacy and safety while delivering optimal patient ...

Travel Pathologists' Assistant

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$42.70 - $56.08/hr

CompHealth Lab is seeking a travel Pathologists' Assistant for a travel job in Vallejo, California. & Requirements * Specialty: Pathologists' Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional

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Lab Assistant information

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How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Novato, CA is $23.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.12 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.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Lab Assistant jobs in Novato, CA?

For Lab Assistant jobs in Novato, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Novato, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,444 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant | Part Time Regular | Evening Shift | Clinical Laboratory 1

Adventist Health

Saint Helena, CA • On-site

Part-time

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


Adventist Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 243 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

159th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Located in one of the most beautiful regions in the United States, St. Helena Hospital was founded in 1878 and has a rich history of innovative medical care. We are comprised of a 151-bed hospital, emergency department and medical offices with centers of excellence in specialty care, including Adventist Heart and Vascular Institute, Coon Joint Replacement Institute, Martin-O'Neil Cancer Center and Behavioral Health units. In the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena is a charming place, and the quality of life is unsurpassed with outdoor adventure, rejuvenation at luxurious spas, popular restaurants, as well as perfect weekend getaways to San Francisco or the coast.

Job Summary:

Collects blood specimens, as well as receives, handles and processes specimens for Laboratory testing. Receives, sorts and accessions specimens, assigning to appropriate pre-analytic and analytic workflow. Completes computerized tasks related to patient registration and/or test order entry, specimen collection, receiving and processing. Performs basic post-analytic tasks, including distributing reports, storing and/or retrieving specimens. Completes quality-related tasks such as documentation of work, maintaining a clean, stocked and safe work area, and monitoring pending work, as well as escalating priority work. Operates and/or uses basic pre-analytic lab equipment. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure privacy and safety while delivering optimal patient care.

Job Requirements:

Education and Work Experience:

  • High School Education/GED or equivalent: Required in CA; Preferred in OR and HI
  • Associate's/Technical Degree or equivalent combination of education/related experience: Preferred
  • Experience in Phlebotomy in acute care environment: Preferred

Licenses/Certifications:

  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPTI) license: Required in CA; Preferred in OR and HI

Facility Specific License/Certifications:

  • Phlebotomy Tech (CPT) or Certified Phlebotomy Technician II (CPTII): Required

Essential Functions:

  • Collects blood specimens for a variety of Laboratory tests using age-appropriate techniques; handles/transports Lab specimens and provides post-phlebotomy care to patients. Receives specimens for testing; assesses specimens upon receipt according to established criteria to determine acceptability and takes action according to protocol including escalating to licensed or certified personnel for direction. Handles and processes a variety of specimen types to prepare them for analysis; adheres to protocols to maintain specimen integrity at all times.
  • Completes computerized tasks as appropriate for affiliate to ensure complete patient registration and/or test order entry into the lab information system, as well as generation of collection lists and/or labels. Prepares and/or packages specimens for transport to another Adventist Health or outside reference laboratory and may complete computer steps necessary for processing referred specimens.
  • Maintains an adequate inventory of supplies in work area and/or on phlebotomy cart. Maintains required records by completing basic documentation of pre-analytic and post-analytic work, as well as quality-related tasks. Participates in managing the laboratory workflow by performing duties such as monitoring pending work, escalating priority work, locating specimens, and coordinating specimen recollections.
  • Verbally communicates released/reported results. Routes, distributes and retransmits released/reported results. Stores and retrieves specimens.
  • Receives incoming calls for the laboratory and assists the caller as appropriate or transfers these calls to the appropriate laboratory section or person. Communicates with customer to clarify ambiguous, unclear or duplicate test orders.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Organizational Requirements:

Adventist Health is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our associates and patients. Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations as a condition of employment and annually thereafter, where applicable. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.
Adventist Health participates in E-Verify. Visit https://adventisthealth.org/careers/everify/ for more information about E-Verify. By choosing to apply, you acknowledge that you have accessed and read the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work notices and understand the contents therein.

Adventist Health is a faith-based, nonprofit, integrated health system serving more than 100 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii with over 440 sites of care, including 27 acute care facilities. Founded on Adventist heritage and values, Adventist Health provides care in hospitals, clinics, home care, and hospice agencies in both rural and urban communities. Our compassionate and talented team of more than 38,000 includes employees, physicians, Medical Staff, and volunteers driven in pursuit of one mission: living God's love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.

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