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Lab Associate Jobs in Stockton, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lead Laboratory Associate

Livermore, CA · On-site

$39.23 - $54.92/hr

SSL-Sutter Shared Lab-Bay Position Overview: Performs duties primarily related to organizing and ... Functions as a Lab Associate I or Lab Associate II. Completes tasks related to test ordering ...

Laboratory Associate III

Livermore, CA · On-site

$37.38 - $52.32/hr

SSL-Sutter Shared Lab-Bay Position Overview: Performs duties primarily in support of analyzing Laboratory quality control and patient specimens. Also performs quality assurance tasks related to the ...

Winery Lab Technician

Acampo, CA

$21 - $26.75/hr

Associate's or bachelor's degree in Enology, Chemistry, Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field preferred, or equivalent relevant experience. * 1-3 years of laboratory experience, preferably ...

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Lab Associate information

See Stockton, CA salary details

$13

$23

$35

How much do lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab associate in Stockton, CA is $23.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $26.35 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 Stockton, CA? The most popular types of Lab jobs in Stockton, CA are:
What cities near Stockton, CA are hiring for Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Stockton, CA with the most Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Associate job openings in Stockton, 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 $49,008 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Lead Laboratory Associate

Sutter Health

Livermore, CA • On-site

$39.23 - $54.92/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Sutter Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 326 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!

Organization:

SSL-Sutter Shared Lab-Bay

Position Overview:

Performs duties primarily related to organizing and coordinating the daily activities of the assigned Laboratory department. Ensures staffing matches workload and the team's work is completed to meet overall service and quality expectations. Coordinates and prioritizes quality assurance activities and interactions with customers to ensure the delivery of safe, reliable and satisfactory service. Functions as a Lab Associate I or Lab Associate II. Completes tasks related to test ordering, receiving, handling and processing a variety of specimen types to prepare them for analysis. Completes analytic tasks including the operation, maintenance and basic trouble-shooting of Laboratory analyzers that perform testing classified as ""waived"" and ""moderate complexity"". Completes post-analytic tasks including distribution of reports and storage/retrieval of specimens. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure privacy and safety while delivering optimal patient care.

Job Description:

EDUCATION:

  • HS Diploma: High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)


TYPICAL EXPERIENCE:

  • 4 years recent relevant experience

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

  • Knowledge and practice of standard principles, processes, procedures, and equipment related to: 1) ordering Laboratory testing,

  • 2) handling and processing biological specimens routinely submitted to the Laboratory for analysis, 3) supporting the performance of waived and moderate complexity testing, 4) organizing and coordinating the flow of Laboratory work.

  • Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks and to support the overall quality of work produced by the team.

  • Ability to organize and prioritize one's own and the team's job duties and assigned tasks for completion within expected timeframes

  • Workflow Management Ability to effectively organize staff and coordinate the flow of work in response to: 1) fluctuations in volume; 2) unexpected situations or problems such as equipment or information systems failure; 3) shift-to-shift hand-offs; 4) STAT test orders; 5) specimen integrity issues 6) regular review of pending logs, priority assignments, etc.

  • Solid critical thinking in applying knowledge and decision-making. Ability to recognize and solve (within scope of job) complex and unusual deviations, problems, unusual occurrences and unexpected outcomes, or to appropriately escalate if resolution isn't possible.

  • Effective verbal and written communication skills. Ability to provide clear and actionable instructions to maintain effective teamwork; ability to work in a collaborative setting where the communication of current, factual, and relevant work information is required.

  • Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence, as well as ability to recognize the need for practice and procedural changes and recommend options for change. Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.

These Principal Accountabilities, Requirements and Qualifications are not exhaustive, but are merely the most descriptive of the current job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (for example, emergencies, staff changes, workload, or technical development).

Job Shift:

Days

Schedule:

Full Time

Shift Hours:

8

Days of the Week:

Monday - Friday

Weekend Requirements:

Rotating Weekends

Benefits:

Yes

Unions:

No

Position Status:

Non-Exempt

Weekly Hours:

40

Employee Status:

Regular

Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.

Pay Range is $39.23 to $54.92 / hour

The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.


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