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Lab Associate Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Synthego

Laboratory Associate II, GMP

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

As a Lab Associate at Synthego, you will join our Clinical operations team and have direct responsibility for the synthesis and purification of our sgRNA products in the INDe and GMP factories. This ...

Synthego

Laboratory Associate II, GMP

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

As a Lab Associate at Synthego, you will join our Clinical operations team and have direct responsibility for the synthesis and purification of our sgRNA products in the INDe and GMP factories. This ...

K2 Pure Solutions LP

Lab Technician

Pittsburg, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Associate's degree in Chemistry or Science related field and a minimum of 2 years lab work experience. EXPERIENCE Lab experience in the chemical industry is preferred. Proficiency in MS Excel, Word ...

K2 Pure Solutions LP

Lab Technician

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Associate's degree in Chemistry or Science related field and a minimum of 2 years lab work experience. EXPERIENCE · Lab experience in the chemical industry is preferred. · Proficiency in MS Excel ...

K2 Pure Solutions

Lab Technician

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Associate's degree in Chemistry or Science related field and a minimum of 2 years lab work experience. EXPERIENCE • Lab experience in the chemical industry is preferred. • Proficiency in MS Excel ...

ZymoChem

Lab Assistant

San Leandro, CA · On-site

Associates Degree in Biology, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Process Engineering, Material Science, or a related discipline preferred. * Minimum 1 years of experience in the biotech industry or lab ...

ZymoChem

Lab Assistant

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Associates Degree in Biology, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Process Engineering, Material Science, or a related discipline preferred. * Minimum 1 years of experience in the biotech industry or lab ...

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All JobsLab Associate JobsLab Associate Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Lab Associate information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$15

$27

$41

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Berkeley, CA is $27.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.62 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 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.

How much does a lab assistant 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 the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the industry and work environment.

Which lab job pays the most?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers, Principal Investigators, or specialized research scientists tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, resulting in higher compensation compared to entry-level lab associate roles.

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 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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's degree or higher in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or laboratory technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols; certifications like OSHA training can also be beneficial.

What do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They work under supervision in laboratory environments, often using tools like microscopes and pipettes, and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the industry. Their role supports research, quality control, or diagnostic processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Berkeley, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
Laboratory Associate II, GMP

Laboratory Associate II, GMP

Synthego

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$29 - $31/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Synthego is enabling genome engineering at scale with a blend of scientific instrumentation, industrial automation, and data science. Our team of scientists and engineers are putting multidisciplinary fields together to solve problems that no one field can tackle alone.
 
We are searching for motivated, enthusiastic, and hands-on individuals interested in advancing science through the manufacturing of our CRISPR regulated products. As a Lab Associate at Synthego, you will join our Clinical operations team and have direct responsibility for the synthesis and purification of our sgRNA products in the INDe and GMP factories. This role requires a strong attention to detail, a desire to learn and adapt to new processes, and familiarity with safe laboratory practices. This role will combine hands-on laboratory protocols with advanced automation to ensure the timely delivery of high quality products to our customers.
 
Available Shift and Training Schedule:
  • Shift: Day Shift
  • Hours: 6:30am to 3:00pm 
  • Days: Monday - Friday
  • Training: Training will take up to 3 months. During the training period you may be asked to temporarily move to a different shift time due to staffing and training needs. After training is complete, you will work the hours/days of the week you were hired for.
What You'll Do:
  • Operate and verify in the synthesis, purification, and fill/finish operations for clinical grade oligonucleotides by following established SOP’s
  • Operate complex lab equipment systems to manage product formulation through an automated workflow
  • Execute batch production records or protocols independently, efficiently, and in compliance with site and quality management system requirements.
  • Handle chemical solutions
  • Ensure laboratory products and supplies are maintained and stocked
  • Capture production data in compliance with site and quality management system requirements
  • Collaborate with Supply chain, Quality Assurance, Warehouse, and other cross-functional teams to meet deadlines.
  • Troubleshoot routine process and equipment issues under supervision
  • Assist in authoring revisions of SOPs, work instructions, and batch records 
  • Train other Laboratory Associate team members on manufacturing processes 
  • Utilize ERP system to submit material requests, track inventory, and support production planning
  • Perform batch record review for accuracy, completeness, and compliance prior to submission to Quality
About You:
  • Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field
  • 1–2 years of experience in a GMP or GLP-regulated manufacturing environment
  • Understanding of quality concepts and familiarity with Quality Management Systems (QMS)
  • Great communication skills and able to work with various personalities
  • Strong desire to work in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment
  • Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills, as well as a strong commitment to quality
  • Demonstrates ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Must be able to lift/move up to 25 pounds
  • Must be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods up to four (4) hours at a time
Nice to Have:
  • Experience working with oligonucleotides
  • Experience working with aseptic fill/finish operations  
  • Experience working with chromatography systems 
Our Mission
Synthego® is a pioneering force in the biotechnology industry, dedicated to advancing the frontiers of CRISPR cell and gene therapies through cutting-edge CRISPR technology and expertise. Our mission is to provide unparalleled access to CRISPR solutions at scale, empowering applications from Discovery to Clinic. Driven by a visionary approach, we strive to accelerate the therapeutic development process with best-in-class CRISPR solutions, simplified licensing & expert guidance, driving the adoption and success of CRISPR-based therapies to benefit all patients.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.