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Lab Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RD Partners

Research Associate I

Foster City, CA · On-site

$39.85/hr

R&D Partners is seeking to hire a Research Associate I in Foster City, CA . Your main ... lab notebooks for experiment documentation, inventory management, and workflow execution (Preferred)

City of Hope

Research Associate II

Monrovia, CA · On-site

The laboratory of Dr. Stephen Gruber is in search of a Research Associate II. Under general ... Train lab staff in specialized procedures, equipment, and theoretical concepts behind unique tests.

City of Hope

Research Associate II

Monrovia, CA · On-site

The laboratory of Dr. Stephen Gruber is in search of a Research Associate II. Under general ... Train lab staff in specialized procedures, equipment, and theoretical concepts behind unique tests.

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Lab Research Associate information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 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.

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 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.
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What job categories do people searching Lab Research Associate jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Research Associate jobs in California are:
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,917 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Research Associate I

Research Associate I

RD Partners

Foster City, CA • On-site

$39.85/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

R&D Partners is seeking to hire a Research Associate I in Foster City, CA.

Your main responsibilities as a Research Associate I:

·      Responsible for the expansion, maintenance, cryopreservation, and thawing of multiple cell lines.

·      Collaborate with team members to assess cell culture needs and provide necessary support for ongoing research activities.

·      Engage with various functional areas to evaluate cell culture and cell banking needs and deliver materials according to defined timelines.

·      Understand quality control procedures to validate cell lines as needed to ensure experimental integrity.

·      Maintain accurate, detailed laboratory notebooks and relevant documentation for all laboratory activities.



What we are looking for in a Research Associate I:

·      B.S. degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, or a related life science field, with a minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience working with cancer cell lines, primary cells, and genetically engineered cell lines.

·      Expertise in aseptic technique and mammalian cell culture, including handling multiple cell lines simultaneously and preparing media with complex supplements.

·      Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in record keeping.

·      Familiarity with cell culture quality control practices such as mycoplasma testing and cell line authentication.

·      Proficiency in using electronic lab notebooks for experiment documentation, inventory management, and workflow execution (Preferred).

Why Choose R&D Partners?

As an employee, you have access to a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Medical insurance – PPO, HMO &
  • Dental & Vision insurance
  • 401k plan
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Long-term disability
  • Weekly payroll
  • Expense reimbursement
  • Online timecard approval

 

Pay Scale:

$66,310 – $82,888 Dependent on Experience)

R&D Partners is a global functional service provider and strategic staffing resource specializing in scientific, clinical research & engineering. We provide job opportunities within major pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies.  

R&D Partners is an equal-opportunity employer.   

Company Description

R&D Partners is a national staffing firm focused in the areas of: Scientific, Clinical Research and Engineering. Our team offers well over 200 years of combined staffing experience providing consulting, direct hire & outsourcing solutions with our west coast offices in San Francisco, Redwood City and San Diego, CA and our east coast offices located in Harrisburg, PA and Tampa, FL.
The cornerstone of our success: a knowledgeable and experienced recruiting team.
Our life sciences recruiters, clinical research recruiters and engineering recruiters are uniquely specialized. After a detailed assessment of our clients’ needs, we can then identify appropriate candidates utilizing our established network of professionals. R&D Partners takes a proactive approach to recruiting, establishing relationships with experienced passive candidates so when the time is right, we can combine our candidates’ talents with our clients’ opportunities.