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Lab Associate Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Update patient records throughout the day, facilitate client communication, generate and present estimates, assist with send-out lab requests and lab data entry, and review PVL charges. Monitor ...

Update patient records throughout the day, facilitate client communication, generate and present estimates, assist with send-out lab requests and lab data entry, and review PVL charges. Monitor ...

Cert Phlebotomy Tech

Goleta, CA · On-site

$27.77 - $42.35/hr

Pacific Diagnostic Laboratories seeks a Certified Phlebotomy Tech (CPT) for their LAB GVCH ... Preferred: Associate's degree or two-year college equivalency. Certifications, Licenses ...

Cert Phlebotomy Tech

Goleta, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Pacific Diagnostic Laboratories seeks a Certified Phlebotomy Tech (CPT) for their LAB GVCH ... Preferred: Associate's degree or two-year college equivalency. Certifications, Licenses ...

TEACHER (Infant)

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... teaching experience (lab experience is acceptable) * Community First Aid/Pediatric CPR ... Wellness Days - Four (4) paid wellness days to all benefits eligible Associates per calendar year ...

A/R Specialist

Carpinteria, CA · On-site

$51K - $83K/yr

That's why our Operations, Lab Services, Sales, and many other Avantor teams rely on our talent ... Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Accounting or Finance preferred. * Experience: * Minimum 1-3 ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Associate information

See Santa Barbara, CA salary details

$14

$24

$37

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Santa Barbara, CA is $24.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Santa Barbara, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:
What cities near Santa Barbara, CA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Santa Barbara, CA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Santa Barbara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,768 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Alliance Animal Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 52 rated veterinary


Job description

Company Description
Horizon Veterinary Specialists, founded in August 2018 by five board-certified veterinarians, aims to drive positive influence in the veterinary community. With a state-of-the-art facility, a culture centered on inclusion and education, and a passion for excellent medicine, Horizon is committed to serving patients and clients, while supporting the dedicated professionals in veterinary medicine.
Our 24/7 emergency and critical care team serves small animal patients across Ventura and surrounding counties, accepting walk-ins and referrals. We have a large, fully equipped, multi-unit ICU that includes an isolation ward and quiet rooms. Our emergency department team is fortunate to have access to our Internal Medicine department six days a week, for consultation and supportive services.
We are a growing practice who is currently looking for a skilled, caring and compassionate doctor's assistant to join our team! Our team at Horizon Veterinary Specialists works in a collaborative, yet driven environment which provides abundant opportunities for growth, development, and patient/client service. We understand and embrace the importance of every pet as a family member and treat each one with the utmost care.
Learn more at about us at horizonvets.com
Job Description
Job duties include, but are not limited to:
  • Monitor and stay updated on the current status of receiving, inpatient census, outdoor census, and triage board; track both inpatient and outpatient caseloads.
  • Request and review relevant records from referring DVMs for incoming ER cases.
  • Update patient records throughout the day, facilitate client communication, generate and present estimates, assist with send-out lab requests and lab data entry, and review PVL charges. Monitor inpatient financials, alert DVMs when patients are approaching estimate limits, and provide daily financial updates and continued care estimates to clients.
  • Create and present estimates in collaboration with DVMs and handle client financial transactions when required.
  • Prepare discharge instructions, ensuring medications and supplies are accurately gathered and provided. Streamline the discharge process when clients arrive.
  • Provide clients with updates on admitted/hospitalized patient status, both at the start and end of the day, under DVM guidance. Set discharge times, facilitate communication between clients and DVMs, and address client questions when the DVM is unavailable.
  • COMM Box Management: Assist DVMs in reviewing and managing their COMM boxes, triaging messages for urgency, pharmacy refill requests, and client communication. Check COMM boxes at least twice a day, prioritizing on-shift DVMs, but also triage off-duty DVM messages when possible. For urgent questions about off-duty DVM cases, consult the on-duty ER DVM for assistance.
  • Take referral calls when no DVM is available.
  • Create and manage the doctor's task list to ensure all items are completed by the end of the day.
  • Collaborate with CSR, Supervisors, and technical staff to manage daily workflow and client communication needs (e.g., informing clients of delays).
  • Facilitate effective communication between DVMs and VetSurg for surgeries and critical anesthetic patients.
  • Maintain clear, efficient, and professional communication with colleagues, clients, and vendors.
  • Must be able to withstand unpleasant odors and noises. May be exposed to bites, scratches, animal waste and potentially contagious diseases.

Whether you're looking to just be a master of your role or trying to grow into that next career move, you'll have opportunities through a variety of virtual and hands on, interactive training and continuing development!
Qualifications
We're Looking For:
  • At least 3 years of experience in an emergency / specialty veterinary hospital setting preferred.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Proficiency in using a Windows-based computer system, including email, internal communication platforms (Teams, M365, etc.), word processing, and spreadsheets.
    • Familiarity with Practice Management Software (EzyVet and Smart Flow) and basic office equipment (copy/fax/scanner machine, credit card/debit machine).
    • Accurate typing and spelling skills.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and push or pull up to 100 lbs.
  • Frequent sitting, standing, bending, squatting, crouching, reaching, and walking.
  • Ability to hold a phone handset and type on a computer for extended periods.
  • Strong reading comprehension and math skills at a high school graduate level or above.
  • Excellent organizational and multitasking skills with keen attention to detail.
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities (with guidance).
  • Professional communication skills, both with peers and clients.
  • Accountable, responsible, motivated, proactive, trustworthy, dependable, and punctual.
  • Ability to handle high-stress situations with poise.
  • Experience managing a caseload for 2 doctors simultaneously.
  • Adaptability in various situations, including interacting with clients in emotional states and supporting multiple doctors and staff for optimal patient and client flow.
  • Comfortable supporting the charge nurse in facilitating communication and patient management.

Additional Information
Pay Range: $24.50 - $28/hr. depending on experience level.
We offer our staff:
  • Comprehensive Benefits (health, dental, vision, liability, 401k & 401K matching program, life & supplemental insurance, HSA, & FSA)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time for ALL Employees
  • Paid Bereavement Program
  • Paid Parental Leave Program
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Continuing Education Allowance (applicable to licensed employees)
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Access to a CVA/CVT/CVPM Partnership through Penn Foster
  • Career Development Opportunities
  • Referral Bonus Program for most positions!
  • Additional Benefits May Also Be Available (i.e. Personal Pet Discounts, Holiday Pay, Uniform Allowance, Bonuses etc)

*Hiring eligibility may be contingent to a candidate authorizing and completing a satisfactory background check.
*Note - some benefits may only be available to or vary slightly for full time employment status vs part time status.
For additional details including our full equal opportunity statement, texting/outreach communication authorization, physical requirements of the job and more, please visit: https://allianceanimal.com/additionaljobdescriptiondetails/

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