1

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

Pomona, CA · On-site

$30/hr

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 2% overnight travel * Physical ...

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 2% overnight travel * Physical ...

Lab Pack Chemist I

Pomona, CA · On-site

$30/hr

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 2% overnight travel * Physical ...

Senior Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$37 - $38/hr

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

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 ...

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

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 ...

Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$38/hr

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 ...

next page

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 Sep 1, 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 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 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.

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.

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.

How much does a lab chemist make?

The average salary for a lab chemist in the United States ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $40,000, while experienced chemists with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $80,000 annually.

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 such as OSHA training.

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, 71% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,622 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Lab Chemist Technician

Irvine, CA

Globalchannelmanagement
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

We are seeking an independent, proactive Laboratory Technician to support our chemistry lab. Operating under the supervision of a senior technician or chemist, you will execute hands-on routine testing, formulation, and data generation with high initiative.

Key Requirements

  • Education & Experience: Associate or Bachelor's degree in a technical field; 1–3 years of demonstrated laboratory experience.
  • Technical Skills: Computer literate in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel for basic data summaries/charts, and PowerPoint).
  • Lab Attributes: Hands-on competency with no fear of equipment operation or lap testing; strict adherence to safe laboratory practices and 5S workplace organization.
  • Teamwork & Physical Demands: Good team player with the ability to stand while working in the laboratory throughout most of the day.

Key Responsibilities

  • Formulation & Testing: Formulate cleaners, pretreatments, paints, and coatings from raw chemical ingredients. Test coatings and evaluate performance characteristics of coated substrates.
  • Experimentation & Data: Understand and follow experimental protocols for data preservation. Organize and perform experiments using established procedures.
  • Documentation: Evaluate, collect, and record data accurately. Summarize and report results in a laboratory notebook and enter data, charts, and tables into the computer to communicate project details.
  • Engineering Support: Work collaboratively to support application engineers with routine data generation based on standard test methods.

Global Channel Management logo

About Global Channel Management

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Global Channel Management is a technology company that specializes in various types of recruiting and staff augmentation. Global Channel Management understands the challenges companies face when it comes to the skills and experience needed to fill the void of the day to day function. Organizations need to reduce training and labor costs but at the same time requiring the best talent for the job. GCM's Ownership and Management teams have extensive Staffing, Recruiting, HR and Executive Leadership knowledge, Experience and Expertise. Our Understanding and Commitment to our Client's Satisfaction are key reasons GCM has been successful in establishing long term relationships.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Austell, GA, US

Social media