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Lab Associate I Jobs in El Segundo, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lab Tech - I

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Excellent employment opportunity for a Lab Tech I in the El Segundo, CA area. * Perform QC sample receipt, processing and distribution for testing and storage * Maintain, calibrate and operate ...

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Lab Associate I information

See El Segundo, CA salary details

$13

$23

$36

How much do lab associate i jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate i in El Segundo, CA is $23.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Lab Associate I, and how can they be overcome?

Lab Associate I professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, managing multiple sample tests simultaneously, and maintaining accurate records. To overcome these challenges, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, pay close attention to detail, and regularly communicate with team members and supervisors. Utilizing checklists and digital tracking systems can also help ensure consistency and accuracy in daily tasks, while ongoing training can keep you up-to-date with best practices and lab safety standards.

What is a Lab Associate I?

Lab Associate I jobs are entry-level positions in laboratories where individuals assist scientists and technicians with routine tasks such as preparing samples, operating basic laboratory equipment, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. These roles often include responsibilities like recording data, labeling specimens, and following safety protocols. Lab Associates I typically work under the supervision of more experienced staff and help ensure that experiments and tests are conducted efficiently and accurately. This position is a great starting point for those interested in a career in laboratory science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Associate I, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Associate I, you need a solid background in laboratory procedures, basic scientific knowledge, and at least a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data entry systems such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain laboratory safety, and support efficient team collaboration in a regulated environment.

What is the difference between Lab Associate I vs Lab Technician?

CriteriaLab Associate ILab Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require an associate degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent; often an associate degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, assisting with basic tasksLaboratory settings, performing more technical procedures
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, research labs, biotech companiesMedical labs, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level lab roles and responsibilitiesClarifying technical duties and qualifications

The main difference between a Lab Associate I and a Lab Technician lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Lab Associate I roles typically involve basic lab support tasks and require minimal formal education, while Lab Technicians perform more technical procedures and often have additional certifications or degrees. Both roles are essential in laboratory environments across healthcare, research, and industry sectors.

What cities near El Segundo, CA are hiring for Lab Associate I jobs? Cities near El Segundo, CA with the most Lab Associate I job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate I job openings in El Segundo, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,557 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Research Associate I Susan Cheng Team, Heart Institute

Cedars Sinai

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago


Cedars-Sinai rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 1,055 rated hospitals


Job description

About Cedars-Sinai and Smidt Heart Institute

Cedars-Sinai is a world-class academic medical center known for innovation, excellence in patient care, and groundbreaking research. The Smidt Heart Institute is internationally recognized for its comprehensive cardiovascular programs and commitment to translational science.

Dr. Susan Cheng is an internationally acclaimed clinician-scientist and academic leader specializing in cardiovascular aging. She has secured continuous NIH funding for her innovative research focused on identifying the biological drivers of cardiovascular health and disease. With over 450 peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals such as JAMA, Circulation, and The New England Journal of Medicine, Dr. Cheng's work has significantly advanced understanding in her field.

Her leadership in clinical research is exemplified by founding the largest COVID-19 clinical research program on the West Coast during the early stages of the pandemic. More recently, she has spearheaded critical studies examining the public health impacts of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. Dr. Cheng's research excellence has been recognized with multiple awards and has contributed to establishing Cedars-Sinai as a global leader in biomedical sciences.

Come join Dr. Cheng's Team!

Job Summary:

Working under direct supervision, the Research Associate I performs a variety of routine experimental protocols and procedures to support the objectives of one or more laboratory research projects in a specific area of research. Assists in general laboratory activities, including maintenance of reagents and stocking of supplies. Files and monitors documents. Keeps accurate and detailed records of experiments and results. Assists in the operation of specialized equipment and machinery. Observes safety standards and procedures. The Research Assistant I will be able to perform routine cellular, micro- and molecular biology procedures including, but not limited to Western, Northern blot, DNA/RNA, PCR, protein extraction, cell culture, Immunohistochemistry, and staining. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs a variety of routine laboratory tasks and procedures.
     
  •  Keeps accurate and detailed project records of experiments and results.
     
  • Maintains lab equipment and related records.
     
  • Transports, processes and logs samples.
     
  • Maintains computer database with relevant clinical information.
     
  • Performs lab maintenance duties, including glassware cleaning and sterilization.
     
  • Maintains stocks of general lab materials, and places orders for lab equipment and supplies.
     
  • Assists new students and fellows at the laboratory.
     
  • Assists in the operation of specialized equipment and machinery.
     
  • Observes and complies with safety standards and procedures.
  • Minimum of a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in biological sciences.
  • Research experience highly preferred

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