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Lab Associate Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Research Associate I in the Dou Lab at Cedars-Sinai will create and lead research to improve translational cancer research by leveraging clinical and image data. In the Dou Lab we use advanced ...

Metal Lab Technician (Manufacturing) We are seeking a hands-on Metal Lab Technician to support our ... Associate degree in Chemistry, Engineering, or related field preferred * Experience in titrating ...

Summary The Lab Technician Intern will support our engineering team in the development, testing ... Currently pursuing an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology ...

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Lab Associate information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$13

$24

$37

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Pasadena, CA is $24.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $27.26 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 Pasadena, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Pasadena, CA are:
What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Pasadena, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,751 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
Lab Operations Engineer (Entry, Associate, or Experienced Level)

Lab Operations Engineer (Entry, Associate, or Experienced Level)

Boeing

Long Beach, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 609 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Lab Operations Engineer (Entry, Associate, or Experienced Level)

Company:

The Boeing Company

The Boeing Test and Evaluation (BT&E) organization is seeking Lab Operations Engineers based in Long Beach, CA, to support the development and sustainment of our avionics lab and related test activities.

You'll have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects that will shape the future of the aerospace industry. Our current initiatives include developing an integrated test lab for flight hardware, avionics, and flight simulators. Major programs include AvionX, C-17 and others.

As a Lab Operations Engineer in BT&E, you will play a pivotal role in the design and development of lab hardware and sustainment of new and legacy units. In addition, you will document requirements, develop and maintain test articles and interfaces in support of various programs using the lab. Additionally, you will perform seamless hardware and software integration ensuring all systems work harmoniously together to support qualification and provide support in troubleshooting and resolving lab issues of new and legacy test equipment.

Our teams are currently hiring for a broad range of experience levels including Entry, Associate, and Mid-Level Lab Operation Engineers.

Position Responsibilities Include:

  • Perform systems verification through execution of test procedures

  • Support the development and verification of test methods

  • Develop detailed test procedures, and instrumentation and configuration definition, needed to perform the test and minimize risk

  • Develop solutions to calibration systems problems of limited scope and impact

  • Design test hardware, software and systems to achieve test requirements

  • Use analytical tools to verify the design

  • Analyze, process, and format data to customer requirements

  • Review test data, including off-nominal data, for accuracy, quality and/or fidelity prior to delivery to customer

  • Prepare and publish test reports to document test results and satisfy requirements

  • Present test results to internal

  • Archive data and reports

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • This position requires the ability to obtain a US Security Clearance for which the US Government requires US Citizenship

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement

  • Experience with electronic hardware testing and troubleshooting

  • Experience with testing in the realms of Software and Electronic Hardware development

  • Experience working in a laboratory environment

  • Experience with development and maintenance of wire harness design and drawings

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Level 2: 1 or more years' related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Level 3: 3 or more years' related work experienceor an equivalent combination of education and experience

  • 1 + years of experience working with electrical data bus interface standards (Ethernet, MILSTD-1553, ARINC 429, RS-232)

  • 1 + years of experience working with MIL-STD Connectors such as D38999

  • Experience with generating electrical drawings using AutoCAD or Visio

  • Experience with hardware configuration control and requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, TeamCenter)

  • Experience in the creation of Statement of Work and estimates, plans, schedules and corrective action

  • Experience in developing hardware verification plans, test procedures and test environments, as well as executing the test procedures and documenting test results

  • Great teammate, able to work in collaborative environment

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Drug Free Workplace:
Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidate for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Pay & Benefits:
At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage, and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary Pay Range for Entry - Level (Level 1): $76,500 - $103,500

Summary Pay Range for Associate - Level (Level 2): $90,950 - $123,050

Summary Pay Range for Mid - Level (Level 3): $111,350 - $150,650

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Associate's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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