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Lab Associate Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Murrieta, CA

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Associates degree or Bachelors degree in Biology, Chemistry, Laboratory Science, or a related scientific field preferred. * Relevant laboratory coursework or technical training required. * Experience

Lab Technician

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Laboratory Science, or a related scientific field preferred. * Relevant laboratory coursework or technical training required.

RN-Cath Lab

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$57.44 - $77.25/hr

Cath Lab (Part-time, Day Shift) Job Summary: The Staff Registered Nurse (RN) works as a team member ... Associate's Degree in Nursing from an accredited school required. Recent appropriate nursing ...

Maintain clear and traceable test records in accordance with lab procedures Qualifications Basic Minimum Education Requirements: * Associate degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics or prior ...

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Lab Associate information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$23

$35

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Riverside, CA is $23.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $26.06 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Research Associate/Associate Scientist/Scientist

Research Associate/Associate Scientist/Scientist

BioPhase Solutions

Anaheim, CA

$35 - $60/hr

Contractor

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

BioPhase Solutions specializes in recruiting top talented professionals for Southern California's Scientific community. We are currently looking for a Research Associate/Associate Scientist/Scientist to work for a Greater Orange County area biotechnology company.

Pay Rate: $35-60+/hr depending on experience
Duration: 3-month contract-to-hire
1st shift - flexible hours

Excellent opportunity to work directly with experienced and high-leveled researchers while growing with a strong company!
Summary:
The company is a small, focused team working on next-generation T Cell Engager candidates utilizing their platform. They are looking specifically for candidates with direct industry experience in the T Cell Engager or broader immune-oncology space — someone who is already fluent in the assays, familiar with the modality, and does not need to build foundational knowledge on the job.

The ideal candidate will be technically sharp, detail-oriented, reliable, and brings a humble, team-first attitude. This is is an execution role for someone who genuinely loves working at the bench and wants to do meaningful science in a collaborative, low-ego environment. Title will be commensurate with experience.
Responsibilities:
  • Execute a broad range of in vitro assays for the screening and characterization of T Cell Engager candidates, including:
    • Tumor-directed cytotoxicity (TDCC) assays using various techniques
    • Immune cell profiling and activation by flow cytometry
    • Cytokine analysis by ELISA and multiplex platforms
    • T cell proliferation and activation assays
    • Cell surface binding assays (flow cytometry, BLI)
    • Cell engineering (target antigen quantification, expression and knockdown)
  • Perform routine mammalian cell culture of tumor cell lines and, as needed, primary immune cells handling, including but not limited to: cell isolation, expansion/activation (PBMCs, T cells, NK cells)
  • Support assay development and optimization as directed
  • Troubleshoot experimental issues methodically and escalate observations to senior scientists promptly
  • Perform routine data analysis using GraphPad Prism and Excel, including curve-fitting (4PL/5PL) and basic statistical analysis
  • Maintain meticulous, up-to-date experimental records in Benchling ELN/LIMS
  • Prepare clear data summaries for team meetings and contribute to slide deck updates
  • Communicate experimental progress, results, and any anomalies clearly and in a timely manner
  • Actively contribute to day-to-day lab operations: reagent and frozen cell inventory management, equipment upkeep, and SOP compliance
  • Work collaboratively within a lean team and maintain a reliable, consistent work cadence
Experience/Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in immunology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field
  • 3–5+ years of hands-on industry experience in a biotech or pharma research setting
  • Direct, hands-on experience with T Cell Engager or immune-oncology programs and related assays (TDCC, T cell activation, PBMC/NK cell-based assays, flow cytometry-based profiling)
  • Proficiency in mammalian cell culture, ELISA, and multiplex cytokine assays
  • Preferred, but not must-have experiences:
    • Experience with BLI-based binding assays
    • Hands-on mouse study experience (xenograft models, injections, blood collection)
      • Prior hands-on mouse study experience is a plus (handling, tumor monitoring, blood collection, i.p./i.v./s.c. injections, xenograft models), though in vivo work is not currently part of this role
    • Familiarity with Benchling ELN or similar electronic lab notebook systems
    • Experience with cell engineering techniques (lentiviral transduction, CRISPR knockdown)
  • Demonstrated ability to execute experiments independently, consistently, and with high attention to technical detail
  • Meticulous record-keeping habits and strong organizational skills
  • Eager to learn, collaborative, and genuinely comfortable in an execution-focused role
  • Humble team player who communicates openly and works well in a small, fast-paced environment
  • Ready to contribute quickly without extensive ramp-up
Please send resumes to mia@biophaseinc.com and visit our website at www.biophaseinc.com for additional job opportunities!!!