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Lab Chemist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Overview Responsible for reviewing the Chemistry workflow and assumes responsibility for results ... Reviews and is responsible for department Q.C. Qualifications Possession of a valid Clinical Lab ...

Lab Chemistry Supervisor

Riverside, CA · On-site

$47 - $51.48/hr

Responsible for reviewing the Chemistry workflow and assumes responsibility for results reported ... Reviews and is responsible for department Q.C. Possession of a valid Clinical Lab Scientist license ...

Lab Pack Chemist I

San Jose, CA · On-site

$33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

An associate's degree in general science (BS preferred) is required for the Lab Pack Chemist. * Driver's License with clear record * Moderate to extensive travel with 20% overnight travel * Physical ...

Lab Pack Chemist I

San Jose, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

An associate's degree in general science (BS preferred) is required for the Lab Pack Chemist. * Driver's License with clear record * Moderate to extensive travel with 20% overnight travel * Physical ...

Lab Pack Chemist I

San Jose, CA

$33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

An associate's degree in general science (BS preferred) is required for the Lab Pack Chemist. * Driver's License with clear record * Moderate to extensive travel with 20% overnight travel * Physical ...

Senior Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA

$37 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate College in general science (BS preferred) is required for the Lab Pack Chemist. * Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Hazardous Material endorsement and a clear record * Moderate to ...

Senior Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate College in general science (BS preferred) is required for the Lab Pack Chemist. * Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Hazardous Material endorsement and a clear record * Moderate to ...

Senior Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$37 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associate College in general science (BS preferred) is required for the Lab Pack Chemist. * Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Hazardous Material endorsement and a clear record * Moderate to ...

Operate analytical lab equipment (pH/conductivity meters, Qubit, NanoDrop, BioAnalyzer, GPC/SEC ... Familiar with emulsion chemistry and PCR * Strong attention to detail, motivated, and self-directed

This Chemist position applies foundational chemical knowledge to perform laboratory testing ... Working within a collaborative team environment and reporting to the Regional Lab Manager, this ...

This Chemist position applies foundational chemical knowledge to perform laboratory testing ... Working within a collaborative team environment and reporting to the Regional Lab Manager, this ...

Assistant Chemist / Associate Chemist

Clayton, CA · On-site

$26.25 - $34.50/hr

The Chemist is expected to maintain a professional relationship with peers, to be an effective member of the lab "team" working toward common goals, and to work well in a situation in which most ...

Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lab Pack Chemist Starting Pay: Up to $38/hr depending on experience Location: San Jose CA Contract to Hire - 6 month contract and then direct hire Qualifications: * BS degree in science or related ...

Analytical Chemist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

GCFID, HPLC, ICPMS, GCMSMS * Assist, oversee, and mentor Lab Techs to help them advance in their chemistry career. * Reviewing and approving QC data within parameters of precision and accuracy.

The Chemist I reports directly to the Laboratory Director and completes essential duties in the Lab Department. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The essential functions include, but are not ...

Research Chemist

Edwards, CA · On-site

$55K - $76K/yr

Experience working in a lab environment, such as experience in a laboratory bench setting during two semesters of a lab class. * Must have good knowledge and hands-on experience in organic chemistry ...

Research Chemist

Edwards, CA · On-site

$55K - $76K/yr

Experience working in a lab environment, such as experience in a laboratory bench setting during two semesters of a lab class. * Must have good knowledge and hands-on experience in organic chemistry ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lab Chemist information

See California salary details

$17

$30

$52

How much do lab chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab chemist in California is $30.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $35.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges lab chemists face in ensuring accurate and reliable test results?

Lab Chemists often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to protocols to prevent contamination, accurately calibrating instruments, and managing time effectively when processing multiple samples. They must also stay updated on new analytical techniques and regulatory requirements. Collaborating with team members to troubleshoot unexpected results and ensuring thorough documentation are essential for maintaining the integrity of laboratory data.

How much do lab chemists make?

Lab chemists typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and working in industries such as pharmaceuticals or biotechnology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab chemist?

To thrive as a Lab Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a bachelor's degree or higher in chemistry or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as HPLC, GC-MS, spectrophotometers, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is usually required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills that help in accurate data interpretation and teamwork. These skills and qualifications ensure reliable experimental results, compliance with safety protocols, and successful collaboration on research and development projects.

How do you become a lab chemist?

To become a lab chemist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field. Gaining laboratory experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in laboratory techniques and safety are also important; advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree.

What is the role of a lab chemist?

A lab chemist conducts experiments and analyzes chemical substances to develop new products, improve processes, or ensure quality control. They use laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and often require knowledge of chemical analysis techniques and certifications. Their work environment is typically a laboratory setting focused on scientific research and testing.

What is the difference between Lab Chemist vs Quality Control Analyst?

AspectLab ChemistQuality Control Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemistry or related fieldBachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical, or manufacturing facilitiesQuality assurance labs, manufacturing plants, pharmaceutical companies
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, pharmaceutical, chemical manufacturingPharmaceutical, biotech, food, and beverage industries
Job FocusConducting experiments, developing formulations, analyzing samplesTesting products, ensuring quality standards, compliance

While both roles require a chemistry background and involve laboratory work, a Lab Chemist primarily focuses on research, development, and analysis of chemical samples. In contrast, a Quality Control Analyst concentrates on testing products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries, often overlapping in skills and certifications.

What does a lab chemist do?

A lab chemist is a professional who conducts chemical analyses and experiments in a laboratory setting. They are responsible for preparing chemical solutions, analyzing samples, conducting quality control tests, and interpreting data to support research and development or manufacturing processes. Lab chemists work in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, environmental science, and manufacturing. Their work ensures product safety, regulatory compliance, and innovation in chemical products and processes.

What cities in California are hiring for Lab Chemist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lab Chemist job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Chemist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,622 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Lab Chemistry Supervisor

AHMC Healthcare

Riverside, CA • On-site

$47/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


AHMC Healthcare rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Responsible for reviewing the Chemistry workflow and assumes responsibility for results reported under his/her supervision. Responsible for maintaining the supplies and reagents in the department. Responsible for completion and accuracy of all Proficiency Testing surveys done in the department. Reviews and is responsible for department Q.C.
Qualifications
Possession of a valid Clinical Lab Scientist license issued by the state of California. Must demonstrate the ability to supervise and instruct personnel in one or more departments of the clinical lab. Must have a minimum of five years' experience and have demonstrated the capability of above average judgment and technical skills. Must have good interpersonal and organizational skills.

What AHMC Healthcare employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About AHMC Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Caring for you and your loved ones is our top priority. We encourage our patients to be involved in the care process, and to communicate with our staff about their experience. From our admitting staff, to nurses, patient experience managers, and administration - we're here because we care. Physicians and facility staff are dedicated to achieving the highest level of clinical excellence. AHMC Healthcare hospitals have advanced diagnostics tools such as the MRI GE Signa HDxt1.5TMR system and the Toshiba Aquilon 128-slice CT scanner. Anaheim Regional Medical Center's Heart Center has the second largest volume of open heart surgeries in Orange County. Members of our Nursing staff have been recognized at the Hospital Heroes Awards and the SeniorServ Senior Care Hero Awards. Whichever AHMC Healthcare hospital you choose, you will be choosing a facility dedicated to delivering quality service and care.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alhambra, CA, US

Year founded

2004

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