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Lab Operations Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Adela

Clinical Laboratory Scientist III

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$140K - $155K/yr

This is an opportunity to partner with the Director of Clinical Lab Operations and Assay ... Perform or assist in the accessioning and receiving of samples and materials into the laboratory.

Predicine, Inc

NGS Automation Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

Design, develop, and support automated liquid handling systems for NGS assays * Assist in ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams including IT, Facilities, and Lab Operations Qualifications

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All JobsLab Operations JobsLab Operations Assistant JobsLab Operations Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Lab Operations Assistant information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$12

$24

$36

How much do lab operations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab operations assistant in Berkeley, CA is $24.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $28.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lab Operations Assistant vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab Operations AssistantLab Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in lab safety or proceduresAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentSupportive lab settings, assisting with administrative and basic technical tasksHands-on technical work, performing experiments, tests, and data collection
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across research labs, healthcare, and industrial labs for support rolesCommonly employed in clinical, research, and industrial laboratories for technical duties

While both roles support laboratory operations, the Lab Operations Assistant primarily handles administrative and basic support tasks, whereas the Lab Technician performs technical procedures and experiments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What does a Laboratory Assistant do?

A Laboratory Assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, recording data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often handle tasks such as cleaning workspaces, organizing supplies, and assisting scientists or technicians with experiments. Attention to detail and familiarity with lab tools and procedures are important for this role.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

The average salary for a lab operations assistant typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the specific laboratory setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab operations assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring postsecondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques or science. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols are also important qualifications.

What are the duties of lab operations?

Lab operations involve managing daily laboratory activities such as preparing and maintaining equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and supporting sample handling and data recording. Lab Operations Assistants often assist with inventory management, cleaning, and organization to ensure smooth laboratory functioning, often using tools like LIMS or other lab management software.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Operations jobs in Berkeley, CA? The most popular types of Lab Operations jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Operations Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA? For Lab Operations Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Operations Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Operations Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Lab Operations Assistant jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Lab Operations Assistant job openings:
Lab Operations Assistant jobs near you
Sil Lab - Junior/Assistant

Sil Lab - Junior/Assistant

University of California, San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Application Window
Open date: June 4, 2025
Most recent review date: Friday, Jul 25, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.
Final date: Friday, Dec 4, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
Sil Lab - Junior/Assistant
SCHOOL OF MEDICINE - Microbiology and Immunology
Description
The Sil lab is seeking a highly-motivated and detail-oriented Junior/Assistant Specialist to join our group and support research in the basic biology of fungal pathogens. The candidate will work closely with postdoctoral fellows and other lab members to investigate novel biology in fungal development. We take a number of molecular approaches, including genetics and genomics, with a focus on RNA biology. The candidate will be expected to generate genetic tools and conduct microbiology and molecular biology techniques, including fungal culturing, cloning, protein purification, and biochemical assays. An exceptional candidate will lead their own independent project, develop new ideas, be familiar with the literature, and participate in procurement of funds, where appropriate. Additionally, the specialist will be expected to assist with managing day-to-day lab operations, and perform general lab duties and be a positive lab citizen.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Conducting molecular and cell biology experiments, such as PCR, qPCR, in vitro transcription, cloning, gel electrophoresis, immunoprecipitations, Northern and Western blotting
  • Aseptically culturing fungal cell lines and performing genetic manipulations using CRISPR-Cas9
  • Preparing RNA and DNA libraries for next-generation sequencing
  • Microscopic analysis of fungal cells
  • Collecting, analyzing, and presenting experimental data

Required Qualifications:
  • Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities.
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines.
  • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a bachelor's degree (or equivalent degree) or four years of research experience to be appointed at the Junior rank.
  • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a master's degree (or equivalent degree) or a bachelor's degree with three or more years of research experience to be appointed at the Assistant rank.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience with handling pathogenic microbes, aseptic techniques
  • Prior experience with BSL2/BSL3 biocontainment
  • Prior experience in the design and assembly of DNA constructs
  • Prior experience in molecular genetics and biology (i.e. gene knockouts, epitope tagging, immunoprecipitation, protein-protein interactions)
  • Prior experience with RNAseq and library prepration
  • Familiarity with RNA biology, gene expression assays, Western blotting
  • Prior experience working in a research lab with fungi

We are seeking at least a 2-year commitment. Depending on performance and workload, opportunities for independent research, mentorship of other trainees, and scientific writing will be available.
Applicants must meet requirements by the time of appointment.
Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF05611
Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
  • Cover Letter (Optional)
  • Statement of Research (Optional)
  • Statement of Teaching (Optional)

Reference requirements
  • 2 required (contact information only)

About UC San Francisco
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
UCSF is committed to welcoming and serving all people, honoring the dignity of every individual without preference or prejudice, in support of its public mission and in alignment with our PRIDE values and Principles of Community.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment
Job location
San Francisco, CA

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