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Lab Assistant Jobs in Pinole, CA (NOW HIRING)

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

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Oakland, CA · On-site

$2.6K - $3.5K/wk

Cath Lab Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 08/17/2026 * Duration ... Responsibilities * Assist with diagnostic and interventional cardiac catheterization procedures.

Showing results 41-60

Lab Assistant information

See Pinole, CA salary details

$11

$22

$32

How much do lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab assistant in Pinole, CA is $22.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.43 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 cities near Pinole, CA are hiring for Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Pinole, CA with the most Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Assistant job openings in Pinole, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,436 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Certified Phlebotomy Technician Lab Assistant II

Sutter Health

Petaluma, CA

$32.90 - $46.06/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Sutter Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 326 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!

Organization:

SPMF-Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation - North

Position Overview:

Collects blood specimens, as well as receives, handles and processes specimens for Laboratory testing. Interacts with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behavior. 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 Description:

EDUCATION:

  • HS Diploma: High School or General Education Diploma (GED) provided prior to start date


CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE:

  • CPTI-Certified Phlebotomy Technician I provided prior to start date

  • OR CPT II-Certified Phlebotomy Technician II provided prior to start date

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:


Knowledge and practice of standard principles, processes, procedures, and equipment related to:
1) ordering Laboratory testing,
2) collecting blood specimens,
3) compassionately and effectively interacting with patients,
4) handling and processing biological specimens routinely submitted to the Laboratory for analysis.
Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks.
1) Ability to organize and prioritize job duties and assigned tasks for completion within expected timeframes.
2) Ability to compassionately and effectively interact with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behaviors.
Workflow Management Ability to appropriately respond to:
1) fluctuations in volume,
2) unexpected situations or problems such as equipment or IS failure,
3) shift-to-shift hand-offs,
4) STAT test orders,
5) specimen integrity issues,
6) regular review of pending logs, priority assignments, etc.
Adherence to Practices & Procedures:
1) Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence.
2) Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.
Applied Job Knowledge, Critical Thinking & Problem Solving:
1) Solid critical thinking in applying knowledge and decision-making.
2) Knowledge of and ability to recognize and appropriately escalate complex and unusual deviations, problems, unusual occurrences and unexpected outcomes.
3) Effective verbal and written communication skills.
4) Ability to work in a collaborative setting where the communication of current, factual, and relevant work information is required.

Job Shift:

Varied

Schedule:

Per Diem/Casual

Shift Hours:

8

Days of the Week:

Variable

Weekend Requirements:

Rotating Weekends, Saturday

Benefits:

No

Unions:

No

Position Status:

Non-Exempt

Weekly Hours:

0

Employee Status:

Per Diem/Casual

Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.

Pay Range is $32.90 to $46.06 / hour

The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.


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