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Lab Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Personalis, Inc

Clinical Lab Associate 1

Fremont, CA

$27.50 - $34.60/hr

At Personalis, we are transforming the active management of cancer through breakthrough personalized testing. We aim to drive a new paradigm for cancer management, guiding care from biopsy through ...

Personalis, Inc

Clinical Lab Associate 1

Fremont, CA · On-site

$27.50 - $34.60/hr

At Personalis, we are transforming the active management of cancer through breakthrough personalized testing. We aim to drive a new paradigm for cancer management, guiding care from biopsy through ...

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Lab Associate information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in California is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lab Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and typically a degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), standard lab equipment, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and efficient support for scientific research or clinical testing.

What are some typical challenges a Lab Associate might face during day-to-day work, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring precise documentation, and maintaining equipment. Staying organized by keeping detailed lab notes and using lab management software can help streamline workflow. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is vital to address any issues promptly and maintain a safe, efficient laboratory environment. Regularly scheduled equipment checks and proactive troubleshooting also contribute to smoother operations.

What are Lab Associates?

Lab Associates are professionals who assist in the daily operations of laboratories by performing tasks such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They typically work under the supervision of scientists or lab managers and help ensure that laboratory procedures are followed safely and accurately. Lab Associates play a crucial role in supporting research and development, quality control, or diagnostic testing in fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the specific lab setting and industry.

What is the difference between Lab Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications varyAssociate degree or relevant certification; similar educational background
Work EnvironmentHospitals, research labs, clinicsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, data entry, basic testingPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, recording results
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, research, biotechMedical, industrial, research sectors

Both Lab Associates and Laboratory Technicians work in similar environments and often share educational requirements. The main difference lies in specific job duties, with Laboratory Technicians typically performing more complex tests and equipment maintenance. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Associate jobs in California? For Lab Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Associate jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Associate jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Lab Associate II - Limited Term

Lab Associate II - Limited Term

Sutter Health

Livermore, CA

$34.55 - $43.18/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Sutter Health rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 310 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 864 rated healthcare providers

Job description

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

Organization:

SSL-Sutter Shared Lab-Bay

Position Overview:

Performs duties related to receiving, handling and processing specimens for Laboratory testing. Receives, sorts and accessions specimens, assigning to appropriate pre-analytic and analytic workflow. 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:

  • High School or General Education Diploma (GED)


TYPICAL EXPERIENCE:

  • 1 year recent relevant experience

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

  • Advanced knowledge and practices of standard principles, processes, procedures, and equipment related to: 1) ordering Laboratory testing and 2) handling and processing biological specimens routinely submitted to the Laboratory for analysis.

  • Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks.

  • Ability to organize and prioritize job duties and assigned tasks for completion within expected timeframes.

  • Workflow Management Ability to appropriately respond to:1) fluctuations in volume. 2) unexpected situations or problems such as equipment or information systems failure; 3) shift-to-shift hand-offs; 4) STAT test orders; 5) specimen integrity issues and 6) regular review of pending logs, priority assignments, etc.

  • Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence.

  • Solid critical thinking in applying knowledge and decision-making.

  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.

  • Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.

  • Ability to work in a collaborative setting where the communication of current, factual, and relevant work information is required.

  • Knowledge of and ability to recognize and appropriately escalate complex and unusual deviations, problems, unusual occurrences and unexpected outcomes.

These Principal Accountabilities, Requirements and Qualifications are not exhaustive, but are merely the most descriptive of the current job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, staff changes, workload, or technical development).

Job Shift:

Days

Schedule:

Full Time

Shift Hours:

8

Days of the Week:

Friday, Thursday, Tuesday, Wednesday

Weekend Requirements:

Saturday

Benefits:

Yes

Unions:

No

Position Status:

Non-Exempt

Weekly Hours:

40

Employee Status:

Limited Term (Fixed Term)

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

Pay Range is $34.55 to $43.18 / 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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