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Lab Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MATERIALS LAB, GENERAL HELPER - 2nd SHIFT Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation.

Director, AI Lab

Fremont, CA · On-site

$116K - $151K/yr

The AI Lab will function as a hands-on innovation environment where internal teams-from product ... Help elevate AI literacy and applied AI capabilities across Lam through mentorship, demonstrations ...

Routes reference lab specimens, with a copy of the requisition, to the reference lab desk for ... Knowledge of medical (laboratory) terminology helpful

Routes reference lab specimens, with a copy of the requisition, to the reference lab desk for ... Knowledge of medical (laboratory) terminology helpful

Routes reference lab specimens, with a copy of the requisition, to the reference lab desk for ... Knowledge of medical (laboratory) terminology helpful

Routes reference lab specimens, with a copy of the requisition, to the reference lab desk for ... Knowledge of medical (laboratory) terminology helpful

Routes reference lab specimens, with a copy of the requisition, to the reference lab desk for ... Knowledge of medical (laboratory) terminology helpful Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans ...

Routes reference lab specimens, with a copy of the requisition, to the reference lab desk for ... Knowledge of medical (laboratory) terminology helpful Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans ...

Automation Lab Engineer Pay Rate: $50/hr + DOE Location: Sunnyvale, CA Type: Full Time About Our ... If you are interested in helping bring the next generation of consumer products to market while ...

Osteoid is growing at a rapid pace and we need Lab Production Technicians to help support the ... increasing client demand for our custom made products. This person will be an integral part of this ...

Osteoid is growing at a rapid pace and we need Lab Production Technicians to help support the ... increasing client demand for our custom made products. This person will be an integral part of this ...

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. The Systems Integration & Test ... Manage Lab Operating Procedures (LOPs) by providing direction for lab users on established policies.

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. The Systems Integration & Test ... Manage Lab Operating Procedures (LOPs) by providing direction for lab users on established policies.

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. The Systems Integration & Test ... Manage Lab Operating Procedures (LOPs) by providing direction for lab users on established policies.

Lab Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$80K - $173K/yr

... we help clients realize their boldest ambitions and build future-ready, sustainable businesses ... Lab Engineer OR Consultant - Tech & Impl L1 Job Title: Lab Engineer OR Consultant - Tech & Impl L1 ...

Position Summary Information Summary The Physical Therapy Program hires lab assistants to help with its courses. The courses utilizing lab assistants are PT 512L Kinesiology Lab, PT 525L Clin Path ...

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Lab Helper information

See California salary details

$14

$18

$28

How much do lab helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab helper in California is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a lab helper?

A lab helper assists scientists and technicians by preparing materials, setting up equipment, and maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment. They may also record data, handle supplies, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working under supervision in research or clinical labs.

What is the difference between Lab Helper vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab HelperLab Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory support, assisting with basic tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, operating lab equipment
Employer & Industry UsageResearch labs, educational institutions, healthcare facilitiesMedical labs, research institutions, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles and support tasksCompared for technical responsibilities and qualifications

The main difference between a Lab Helper and a Lab Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Lab Helpers typically assist with basic tasks and require minimal formal education, while Lab Technicians perform more complex testing and usually hold relevant certifications or degrees. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings, but Lab Technicians have a higher level of technical responsibility.

What does a lab helper do?

A lab helper assists with preparing experiments, organizing supplies, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often follow safety protocols, record data, and support scientists or technicians in daily lab operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Helper, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, with basic laboratory knowledge and attention to detail. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the laboratory runs efficiently, maintains safety standards, and supports scientific staff effectively.

What are lab helpers?

Lab helpers are support staff who assist scientists, researchers, or lab technicians in maintaining the daily operations of a laboratory. Their duties typically include preparing materials, cleaning equipment, organizing supplies, and sometimes helping with experiments under supervision. Lab helpers play a crucial role in ensuring the lab runs smoothly and safely by keeping the workspace organized and adhering to safety protocols. While they generally do not design experiments, their work is essential for efficient and accurate scientific research.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab helper, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, and some positions may prefer coursework in science or related fields. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important; certifications are generally not mandatory but can be advantageous.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

Lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while more experienced assistants or those working in specialized labs can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on whether the role is part-time or full-time and the industry sector.

What does a typical day look like for a Lab Helper and how do they support the overall workflow of the laboratory?

A typical day for a Lab Helper involves preparing and organizing lab equipment, cleaning glassware, restocking supplies, and assisting with basic experimental setups. Lab Helpers play a crucial role in maintaining a clean, efficient lab environment, allowing scientists and technicians to focus on more complex tasks. They frequently collaborate with laboratory staff to ensure that all materials are available and that safety protocols are followed. This support helps the team meet deadlines and maintain high standards of accuracy and safety in their work.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Helper jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Lab Helper job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,668 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Materials Lab, General Helper

Freeform

Los Angeles, CA

$20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

MATERIALS LAB, GENERAL HELPER - 2nd SHIFT

Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. By treating manufacturing as a single integrated system, we unlock a new era of innovation where complex hardware is designed, built, and scaled without limits.

As a Materials Lab, General Helper at Freeform, you will play a critical role in the testing and analysis of 3D printed parts and materials for the world's most advanced additive manufacturing systems. You will be trained to perform a variety of sample preparation and testing procedures with extreme attention to detail and critical thinking skills. You will work alongside the senior technician and engineering team to improve testing processes and procedures with a focus on automation and scalability. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced R&D environment, will be a fast learner with a hunger to grow, and will have a "no job too big or small" mentality.

3D printing experience is not required to be successful here - rather we look for smart, motivated, collaborative individuals who love solving hard problems and creating amazing technology.

Responsibilities:  

  • Perform metallurgical sample preparation including cutting, grinding, polishing, acid etching, and mounting
  • Operate and maintain testing equipment such as Instrons, surface scanners, and more
  • Contribute to printing operations such as vacuuming powder, removing finished parts from the system and loading fresh build plates 
  • Work with the engineering team to collect data and conduct testing, analysis, and review of printed parts
  • Perform data entry and report generation
  • Participate in process improvement efforts to streamline testing procedures
  • Contribute to installation and commissioning of new machines used for material testing / qualification

Basic Qualifications:  

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Positive attitude, eagerness to learn and grow, and team-oriented attitude
  • Must be available to work the afternoon/second shift (1:30 PM - 9:30 PM)

Nice to Have:

  • 1+ years of professional experience in materials and processing, mechanical testing, semiconductor processing, or chemical processing
  • Experience in metallurgical sample preparation
  • Extreme attention to detail and critical thinking skills
  • Experience handling and keeping track of a large number of physical parts and the measurements taken on them
  • Experience in operating complex equipment
  • Experience working with hazardous materials
  • Experience with data entry
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 30lbs unassisted
  • Ability to climb ladders and be on your feet for extended periods of time
  • Must be available and willing to work overtime when needed

Location: 

  • WearelocatedinHawthorne,CAina 35,000 square foot,state-of-the-artfacility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production, as well as easy access to the 405, 105, and 110 freeways.Our facility is in the heart of Los Angeles' vibrant emerging tech ecosystem alongside many other high growth startups and enterprises. 

What We Offer: 

  • We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions.
  • We offer a unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company that is scaling a world-changing technology.
  • Benefits
    • Significant stock option packages
    • 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (premium PPO and HMO options)
    • Life insurance
    • Traditional and Roth 401(k)
    • Paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays
    • Generous Paid Parental Leave and extended transition back to work for the birthing parent
    • Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette
    • Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events
  • Compensation
    • Asa growing company, the salary rangeis intentionally wide as wedeterminethe mostappropriate packageforeach individualtaking into consideration years of experience, educational background, and unique skills and abilities asdemonstratedthroughout the interview process. Our intent is to offer a salary that iscommensurateforthe company's current stage of development and allows the employee to grow and develop within a role.
    • In addition to the significant stock option package, The pay rate for this role is $20/hour. 
  • Freeform is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity; employment with Freeform is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.