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

Persimmons

Hardware Lab Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

What you'll do: As a Hardware Lab Technician, you will work inside our in-office hardware lab ... Associate's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electronics, or a ...

Persimmons

Hardware Lab Technician

San Jose, CA

What you'll do: As a Hardware Lab Technician, you will work inside our in-office hardware lab ... Associate's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electronics, or a ...

Persimmons

Hardware Lab Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

What you'll do: As a Hardware Lab Technician, you will work inside our in-office hardware lab ... Associate's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electronics, or a ...

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All JobsLab Associate JobsLab Associate Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Lab Associate information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$14

$25

$39

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Santa Cruz, CA is $25.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $28.85 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 Santa Cruz, CA?

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

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

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

Lab Associate jobs near you

Associate Lab Director

Centrillion Biosciences, Inc.

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Centrillion is creating transformative genomic technologies leveraging engineering and biochemistry breakthroughs to accelerate discovery and reveal the real genome that has thus far been obscured by its complexity and the limitations of existing technologies. Our team of scientists and engineers is committed to making a new generation of genomic technologies accessible and affordable for a multitude of previously unapproachable apps. Centrillion is backed by venture capital and strategic investors and is located at Palo Alto, CA, at the innovation center of Silicon Valley and close to Stanford University.
Job Description
Centrillion Genomics Services has an immediate opening for a full time Associate Lab Director. We're looking for a congenial and highly communicative person with a minimum of 3 years of laboratory management operations experience in genomics, next-gen sequencing, molecular biology and related areas. A BS/MS degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry or related field is required.
  • Train and supervise research technicians and lab associates
  • Oversee instrument set up, run monitoring, trouble-shooting, protocol writing and maintenance of lab instruments
  • Receive, organize and manage customer samples including sample database, logging, tracking
  • Maintain accurate records for sample preparation and report data
  • Order, monitor and track reagent inventory for R&D and service team
  • Monitor and respond to facilities operations needs
  • Point of contact, interact and negotiate with vendors and suppliers
  • Maintain company safety program

Qualifications
  • Excellent organizational, computer and verbal/written communication skills
  • Excellent leadership and people skills including highly developed teamwork mentality
  • Strong background in nucleic acid handling including sample QC, PCR, DNA/RNA library preparation, next-gen sequencing technologies and instrument operation, set up, monitoring and trouble shooting
  • Background and experience in lab management
  • Detail-oriented and ability to meticulously follow, maintain and revise laboratory procedures and protocols as necessary
  • Self-motivated, able to take charge and make decisions in a fast paced environment
  • Strong desire to be reliable and hands on go-to person for lab operations

Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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