1

Lab Associate Jobs in Encinitas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Associate degree in Clinical/Medical Lab Technology or related field * MLT certification (ASCP, AMT, or eligible) * Detail-oriented with strong communication and tech skills What We Offer:

The Senior Research Associate thrives in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment and is ... Conduct hands-on lab work and support chemical/biochemical tool development-work at the bench to ...

The Senior Research Associate thrives in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment and is ... Conduct hands-on lab work and support chemical/biochemical tool development--work at the bench to ...

The Senior Research Associate thrives in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment and is ... Conduct hands-on lab work and support chemical/biochemical tool development-work at the bench to ...

Metlab Technician

El Cajon, CA

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Position Summary The Metal Lab Technician is responsible for performing metallurgical testing ... Associate degree or technical certification in metallurgy, materials science, or related field ...

Warehouse Associate

Poway, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Warehouse Associate Every Order Shipped Right Keeps a Lab Running Why This Role Matters When a lab runs out of critical supplies, experiments stop. Patient samples wait. Research timelines slip. As a ...

Working closely with the SCC Director, Associate Director of Research Administration, and Senior ... Lab Website: Paralleling efforts for the Salk Cancer Center website, originates content for the lab ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Associate information

See Encinitas, CA salary details

$13

$24

$36

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Encinitas, CA is $24.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $26.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lab associate?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab associate?

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 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 Encinitas, CA?

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

What cities near Encinitas, CA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near Encinitas, CA with the most Lab Associate job openings:

Microbiology Supervisor

Lighthouse Lab Services

San Diego, CA • On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

Full-time, Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Microbiology Supervisor

Location: San Diego, CA
Shift: 2nd Shift, Monday–Friday, 2:00 PM–11:30 PM
Salary: $100,000–$150,000 annually
Sign-On Bonus: $7,000

Job Summary

Lighthouse Lab Services is partnering with an independent reference laboratory in San Diego, CA, to find an experienced Microbiology Supervisor to join their team on second shift. This is an excellent opportunity for a California-licensed CLS with strong microbiology experience and prior leadership experience to take the next step in their career.

The Microbiology Supervisor will oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, provide technical and operational leadership to laboratory staff, ensure testing is performed accurately and efficiently, and maintain compliance with CLIA, CAP, and California state regulations.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee daily operations of the microbiology laboratory on second shift.

  • Supervise, train, and provide technical guidance to laboratory staff.

  • Ensure accurate, timely, and efficient processing and testing of patient specimens.

  • Monitor laboratory workflow, staffing, productivity, and turnaround times.

  • Maintain compliance with CLIA, CAP, California state regulations, and laboratory policies and procedures.

  • Assist with quality control, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance activities.

  • Troubleshoot technical and operational issues and provide appropriate solutions.

  • Assist with the development, implementation, and maintenance of laboratory policies and procedures.

  • Support laboratory inspections, audits, and accreditation activities.

  • Utilize the laboratory information system (LIS) and Microsoft Office to perform laboratory and administrative functions.

  • Communicate effectively with laboratory staff, leadership, and other departments.

  • Promote a culture of quality, safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Education & Experience

Required:

  • Associate’s degree in a Chemical or Biological Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, or related field.

  • Minimum of 4 years of experience working as a laboratory technologist or technician.

  • Active California CLS license required.

  • Previous supervisory or leadership experience in a clinical laboratory setting.

  • Strong knowledge of CLIA, CAP, and applicable California state regulations.

  • Strong understanding of laboratory operations, policies, and procedures.

  • Proficiency with Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) and Microsoft Office.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

  • Ability to make sound decisions and adapt to a changing laboratory environment.

  • Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position.

  • Ability to successfully pass a standardized color blindness test.

Preferred:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a Chemical or Biological Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, or related field.

  • ASCP or AMT certification.

  • Previous experience with Labcorp or another large reference laboratory.

  • Previous experience supervising a high-volume microbiology laboratory.

Compensation & Benefits

  • $100,000–$165,000 annual salary

  • $7,000 sign-on bonus

  • Monday–Friday, 2nd shift schedule

  • Opportunity to join an established independent reference laboratory

  • Leadership role with opportunities for professional growth

About Us:

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 21 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry-level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, Lighthouse Lab Services will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Lighthouse Lab Services | 844-334-1658 | lighthouselabservices.com

#LLS2