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Lab Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Moffitt

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE I

West Covina, CA

$18.19 - $27.83/hr

Keep current with lab trends and techniques. * Follow infection control techniques, for preparation, handling and disposal of as samples. * Research Associates collect, annotate, and permanently ...

New

BioPhase Solutions

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA

$25 - $35/hr

We are currently looking for a Research Associate, Discovery Biology and Pharmacology to work for a ... Maintain experimental records and lab supplies Job Requirements: * Experience with the above ...

AccuScan Sciences

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA · On-site

AccuScan Sciences is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this ... Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe lab environment * Assist with safety, hazardous waste, and ...

AccuScan Sciences

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA · On-site

AccuScan Sciences is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this ... Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe lab environment * Assist with safety, hazardous waste, and ...

AccuraGen

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA · On-site

AccuraGen is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this role, you ... Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe lab environment * Assist with safety, hazardous waste, and ...

BillionToOne

Research Associate

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$104K/yr

Collaborate with other teams to implement lab and bioinformatic workflows * Contribute positively to organizing and maintaining the R&D lab Qualifications: * BS or MS in Bioengineering, Molecular and ...

Moffitt

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE I

Long Beach, CA

The Perna Lab investigates how genetic and molecular abnormalities alter the cancer surface ... part-time Research Associate I position. Ideal Candidate: • Ability to plan, organize and ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team ... You have a background in the social sciences: degree or lab experience in psychology, sociology, or ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team ... You have a background in the social sciences: degree or lab experience in psychology, sociology, or ...

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All JobsLab Research Associate JobsLab Research Associate Jobs in California

Lab Research Associate information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab research associate in California is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do research lab assistants get paid?

Research lab assistants are typically paid employees who receive wages or stipends for their work, which can vary based on experience, education, and the employer. Many positions are part-time or full-time, and some may require specific skills or certifications such as laboratory techniques or safety training.

What does a Lab Research Associate do?

A Lab Research Associate supports scientific research by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often assist senior researchers in designing studies, collecting samples, and performing routine tests. Their role is crucial in ensuring that experiments are conducted accurately and efficiently, following safety protocols and documentation standards. Lab Research Associates work in various settings, including universities, hospitals, and private research facilities.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab research associate, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Laboratory experience, familiarity with lab equipment, and strong attention to detail are also important qualifications. Some positions may require specific certifications or training depending on the laboratory environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Research Associates when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Lab Research Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which can be challenging due to the need for precise timing, meticulous record-keeping, and coordination with other team members. Unexpected issues, such as equipment malfunctions or reagent shortages, may require quick troubleshooting and adaptability. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential to ensure that data is accurately collected and experiments are completed within deadlines. Collaborating closely with principal investigators and fellow researchers also helps in prioritizing tasks and sharing resources efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Lab Research Associate, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or a related field, usually with a bachelor's or master's degree and experience in laboratory techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and protocols like PCR or chromatography is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These capabilities ensure accurate results, maintain safety standards, and contribute to successful research outcomes.

What is a research associate in a lab?

A research associate in a lab is a professional responsible for conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and supporting research projects. They often work under the supervision of principal investigators and may use laboratory equipment and techniques such as pipetting, microscopy, or data management tools. This role typically requires a relevant degree and strong attention to detail.

What qualifications do I need to be a research associate?

To become a research associate, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Some positions may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills, familiarity with research methodologies, and proficiency with scientific tools and data analysis software.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Research Associate jobs in California? For Lab Research Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Lab Research Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Research Associate job openings:
Lab Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Research Associate job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,917 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Tissue Culture Lab Research Associate II - Research and Breeding Greenhouse

Tissue Culture Lab Research Associate II - Research and Breeding Greenhouse

Driscoll's, Inc.

Watsonville, CA

$76K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted just now

Job description

About the Opportunity The Tissue Culture Lab Research Associate II is responsible for leading plant tissue culture production activities, optimizing workflow efficiency, troubleshooting laboratory issues, and ensuring highquality output across all stages of micropropagation. This role supervises daily operations within the tissue culture laboratory and collaborates crossfunctionally with teams including breeding, nursery, operations, clean stock, and plant health.
This position is highly handson, supporting the full cycle of production from explant initiation through in vitro multiplication, rooting, and the successful transfer of plantlets to the greenhouse. The Research Associate II will also contribute to data collection, reporting, protocol optimization, and may participate in experimental design as needed. Responsibilities

Fulfill production demands while maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.

Adhere to SOPs and assist in setting up smallscale trials designed to improve laboratory efficiency and workflow.

Supervise, guide, and direct tissue culture team members to complete daily tasks accurately and in a timely manner.

Perform tissue culture initiations, subcultures, and transfers needed for plantlet production across all micropropagation stages.

Monitor cultures to identify contamination or growth irregularities and report issues promptly.

Prepare and manage media, supplies, and materials required for ongoing production.

Maintain accurate records of production activities, batch numbers, and culture performance.

Ensure proper operation and cleanliness of laminar flow hoods, autoclaves, and other laboratory equipment.

Duties require manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to perform repetitive tasks efficiently.

Assist in greenhouse-based trials

Uphold the confidentiality of Driscoll's financial, proprietary, and employee information.

Represent Driscoll's in a manner consistent with the company's Mission and Values in all internal and external interactions.

Perform other duties as assigned. This job description reflects the general nature of the work performed and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities. All positions include broad responsibilities for contributing to ongoing improvement of processes used to support product development.

    Candidate Profile

A minimum of 2-3 years of relevant handson experience in plant tissue culture with strong proficiency in aseptic techniques.
BS in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, Biology, or a closely related field.
Supervisory experience in a laboratory setting, with the ability to lead, motivate, and train the tissue culture laboratory team.
Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred.
Analytical and problemsolving skills sufficient to identify issues and participate in developing solutions.
Ability to work in both laboratory and greenhouse environments, including extended periods at laminar flow hoods and in climatecontrolled areas.
Selfmotivated with strong communication skills and the ability to follow instructions, accept direction, and collaborate effectively with others.
Must have excellent time management, prioritization, and organizational skills.
Intermediate to Advanced Excel skills.Word, Outlook, and Power Point, proficient.
California driver's license and the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with commercial scale micropropagation, including high-volume production workflows.
Familiarity with plant pathology, media optimization, or acclimatization of in vitro plantlets.
Experience using production tracking systems or other laboratory data collection tools.

Compensation & Benefits

The following information is provided in good faith as a general description of the salary range and benefits for the position posted. The actual compensation offered to the successful candidate is dependent upon experience, skills, education, work location, internal pay equity, and other objective job-related factors.

Salary Range estimated for the Tissue Culture Lab Research Associate II - Research and Breeding Greenhouse role:$76,810.00/year to $98,000.00 USD.

Driscoll's is committed to a culture of care and offers an attractive benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, and disability coverage for positions working more than 30 hours per week. Other benefits include: 401(k) with employer match, profit-sharing participation, paid sick time, paid vacation, paid personal and family care leave, and a free Employee Assistance Program (EAP). More detailed information regarding the benefits package, will be shared during the application process.

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