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Lab Associate Jobs in Novato, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Lab Associate information

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$14

$26

$40

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Novato, CA is $26.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $29.38 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 Novato, CA?

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

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

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

Lab Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Novato, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,624 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Feinberg Lab - Associate/Full Specialist Position

UCSF

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago

University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Feinberg Lab - Associate/Full Specialist Position

The Feinberg lab is seeking an Associate/Full Specialist to join our group and contribute to new and ongoing projects. Our lab focuses on sensorimotor integration in mice. The candidate will be expected to assist graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in performing behavioral experiments in mice. Responsibilities may include performing stereotaxic surgeries to deliver viruses and drugs to specific anatomic sites in the mouse brain; performing two-photon calcium imaging in the brains of awake, behaving mice; performing immunostaining of brain slices to characterize gene expression in the nervous system; running behavioral assays in conjunction with optogenetics or in vivo calcium imaging; genotyping and mouse colony maintenance and perform other duties as assigned.

An exceptional candidate will lead their own independent project, develop new ideas, and be familiar with the literature, where appropriate. Additionally, the specialist will be expected to assist with managing day-to-day lab operations, and perform general lab duties and be a positive lab citizen.

Required Qualifications:

  • For an Associate Specialist position - Master's degree (or equivalent degree) or five to ten years of experience in the relevant specialization
  • For a Full Specialist position- Terminal degree (or equivalent degree) or ten or more years of experience in the relevant specialization
  • Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities.
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience in handling mice and stereotaxic procedures
  • Prior experience in analyzing experimental data in MATLAB and/or Python.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $75,600-$194,800.

Please apply online with a CV and contact information for two references. Applicant materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. The selected candidate must meet all of the qualifications at the time of hire.

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