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Lab Associate Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

RIZO-LOPEZ FOODS, Inc.

QA/QC Technician

Modesto, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

You'll learn industry-standard lab testing, perform quality audits on the production floor, and ... High school or equivalent years of experience (Associates or College degree in Food Science ...

Jeld-Wen Inc.

Production Specialist

Stockton, CA · On-site

$27.03 - $29.03/hr

Custom stain matching and stain formula control in the stain lab * Respirator certification ... Our associates are dedicated to bringing beauty and security to the spaces that touch our lives ...

Dameron Hospital

Registered Nurse 2

Stockton, CA · On-site

$57.52 - $73.54/hr

Cardiac Cath Lab: experience preferred, but not required; will train. Minimum 1 year critical care ... Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations, including, but not ...

Vetcor

Veterinarian - Ceres, CA

Ceres, CA

$140K - $170K/yr

Associate Veterinarian - Ceres Veterinary Clinic Ceres, California Ceres Veterinary Clinic is ... Full diagnostic lab capabilities * Digital radiology * Ultrasound * Complete surgical suite

VetCor

Veterinarian - Ceres, CA

Ceres, CA

$140K - $170K/yr

Associate Veterinarian - Ceres Veterinary Clinic Ceres, California Ceres Veterinary Clinic is ... Full diagnostic lab capabilities * Digital radiology * Ultrasound * Complete surgical suite

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All JobsLab Associate JobsLab Associate Jobs in Modesto, CA

Lab Associate information

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How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Modesto, CA is $23.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $26.39 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.

How much does a lab assistant earn?

Lab assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry or laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries.

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.

Do you need qualifications to be a lab assistant?

Lab associates typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant certifications. Strong attention to detail, basic laboratory skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are also important for the role.

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 is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those with specialized skills, advanced certifications, or experience in high-demand fields such as pharmaceutical or clinical research laboratories. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of expertise. Senior or supervisory roles typically offer higher compensation.

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 do lab associates do?

Lab associates perform tasks such as preparing samples, conducting experiments, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work under supervision in research or clinical labs and may need knowledge of safety protocols and laboratory techniques.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Associate jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Associate jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Lab Associate jobs near you
QA/QC Technician

QA/QC Technician

RIZO-LOPEZ FOODS, Inc.

Modesto, CA • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description
Join Francisco Foods, a company with deep roots in tradition and innovation. We're a leading manufacturer of high-quality dairy products, and we're looking for motivated, detail-oriented individuals to join our team as Quality Assurance Technicians. If you're passionate about food science, microbiology, or quality control-and ready to make a real impact-this is your opportunity to grow your career from the ground up!
About the Role
As a QA Technician, you'll play a critical role in ensuring the safety, quality, and consistency of our products. You'll learn industry-standard lab testing, perform quality audits on the production floor, and support food safety systems such as GMPs, SQF, and HARPC.
Your day-to-day includes:
  • Conducting quality audits and equipment checks in a fast-paced food production environment
  • Testing dairy products for key characteristics (taste, texture, pH, microbiological integrity)
  • Sampling raw and packaging materials
  • Using lab tools like pH meters, pipettes, and salt analyzers
  • Documenting data clearly and accurately using QA software
  • Supporting food safety initiatives across the facility

Skills & Knowledge Needed
  • Strong attention to detail and analytical mindset.
  • Understanding of GLP (Good Laboratory Practices
  • Proper aseptic sample collection.
  • Knowledge of basic statistical sampling and product sampling protocols needed.
  • Utilizing various testing equipment such as: Foss FTIR, salt, pH analyzers, thermometers, scales, sample titrations, and pipettes.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Display strong organizational and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to work individually as well as part of a team,=.
  • Ability to communicate bother verbally and in writing.

Education and Experience
  • High school or equivalent years of experience (Associates or College degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field preferred)
  • 1-3 years laboratory or quality related experience in a food production environment preferred.
Why Join Us?
  • Stable, growing food manufacturing company
  • Team-oriented work environment
  • Opportunities for overtime and advancement
  • Hands-on experience in food production
  • Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental benefits
  • Employer paid life insurance

Francisco Foods is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at all levels of the organization.

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