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Lab Runner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vital Lyfe

Water Lab Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

This includes running and improving test methods, operating and maintaining analytical instruments ... Follow lab safety procedures, including PPE use, chemical handling, and waste disposal. * Help keep ...

TridentCare

Medical Lab Technician

Irvine, CA

* Performs lab testing in the areas of Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis and Coagulation ... Checks the quality control of each test prior to running and reporting patient results. * Calls ...

Trident Care

Medical Lab Technician

Irvine, CA

$32 - $38/hr

* Performs lab testing in the areas of Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis and Coagulation ... Checks the quality control of each test prior to running and reporting patient results. * Calls ...

Carbon, Inc.

Materials Technician

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$33.32/hr

You'll work closely with our scientists day-to-day, helping move formulation projects forward while keeping our lab running smoothly and safely. This role is onsite 5 days per week at our Sunnyvale ...

TridentCare

Medical Lab Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

* Performs lab testing in the areas of Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis and Coagulation ... Checks the quality control of each test prior to running and reporting patient results. * Calls ...

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Lab Runner information

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How much do lab runner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab runner in California is $13.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.43 and $15.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for a Lab Runner in a laboratory setting?

A typical day for a Lab Runner involves transporting samples and materials between different departments, restocking laboratory supplies, and sometimes assisting with routine lab tasks such as labeling or logging incoming specimens. Lab Runners work closely with laboratory technicians, researchers, and administrative staff to ensure timely and accurate delivery of items critical to lab processes. They may need to manage multiple urgent requests and prioritize deliveries to maintain workflow efficiency. This hands-on role keeps you moving throughout the facility and offers valuable exposure to laboratory operations, which can be beneficial for those interested in advancing within the scientific or healthcare field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Lab Runner position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Runner, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of laboratory protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with lab safety procedures, sample tracking systems, and proper handling of biological or chemical materials is typically required. Excellent time management, reliability, and clear communication skills help Lab Runners excel in fast-paced lab environments. These competencies are essential to ensure quick, safe, and accurate delivery of materials, supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require post-secondary education or relevant coursework in science. Basic skills in laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with lab equipment are important. Certifications such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Lab runners typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized physicians, or senior professionals in finance, law, or technology. High-paying jobs often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, or specialized skills, and may involve leadership or highly technical responsibilities.

What does a lab runner do?

A lab runner is responsible for transporting, organizing, and preparing laboratory samples, equipment, and supplies to ensure smooth lab operations. They often handle tasks such as cleaning, labeling, and assisting with basic experiments, typically working under the supervision of scientists or technicians. Attention to detail and knowledge of safety protocols are important in this role.

What is a Lab Runner job?

A Lab Runner is responsible for transporting specimens, supplies, and documents between different departments within a laboratory or healthcare facility. They ensure that materials are delivered in a timely and organized manner, helping lab technicians and medical staff maintain efficiency. The role may also involve basic clerical tasks, restocking supplies, and following strict protocols for handling sensitive or hazardous materials. Strong attention to detail and reliability are essential for success in this position.

What lab job makes the most money?

In laboratory settings, senior roles such as Laboratory Managers or Principal Investigators tend to earn the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong management or research skills. Technical roles like Clinical Laboratory Directors also command high compensation due to their responsibilities and expertise.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Runner jobs in California? The most popular types of Lab Runner jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Runner jobs in California? For Lab Runner jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Runner jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Runner jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Runner jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Runner job openings:
Lab Runner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Runner job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $28,037 per year, or $13.5 per hour.

Water Lab Technician

Vital Lyfe

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Mission
The Water Laboratory & Membrane Testing Technician will be a hands-on partner to our engineering and R&D teams, transforming ideas and designs into validated, real-world performance. You will play a central role in characterizing water quality and testing membrane performance to ensure our portable water treatment devices are safe, reliable, and high performing. This includes running and improving test methods, operating and maintaining analytical instruments, and executing membrane test protocols that directly influence product design decisions and quality standards.
The ideal candidate is practical, precise, and curious, with a strong aptitude for laboratory work, basic mechanical systems, and data-driven problem solving. You are hands-on, flexible, quick to learn new methods and instruments, comfortable in a fast-paced development environment, and bring a proactive, can-do attitude to supporting our mission of delivering clean water through innovative portable solutions.
What You Will Do
  • Perform routine water quality tests (pH, EC/TDS, turbidity, hardness, alkalinity, major ions, etc.).
  • Operate water characterization instruments (e.g., ICP, UV-Vis, turbidity meter, titrator).
  • Prepare samples, reagents, standards, and calibration solutions.
  • Operate membrane test rigs for RO/NF/UF/MF to measure flux, rejection, and performance.
  • Set up and monitor membrane tests, including feed preparation and operating conditions.
  • Conduct fouling and cleaning studies and support root-cause analysis.
  • Record test conditions and results accurately in lab records and digital systems.
  • Prepare concise test summaries and basic technical reports.
  • Maintain and perform basic troubleshooting on lab and test equipment.
  • Follow lab safety procedures, including PPE use, chemical handling, and waste disposal.
  • Help keep the lab organized, clean, and well stocked with chemicals and consumables.

What We Are Looking For
  • Someone hands-on, practical, and detail-oriented, who enjoys working in the lab with instruments, water samples, and membrane systems.
  • Someone who is eager to learn, can follow procedures, and can work closely with engineers and the team to improve tests and support product development.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in a water analysis or environmental testing laboratory.
  • Experience operating ICP and other water characterization instruments.
  • Experience with membrane filtration systems (RO/NF/UF/MF).
  • Knowledge of standard water testing methods (e.g., ISO/ASTM or similar).
  • Basic understanding of water chemistry and membrane performance concepts.
  • Ability to work with pumps, valves, and pressurized systems (or willingness to learn).
  • Proficiency with basic data analysis and report preparation.

• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  • High attention to detail, good communication, and ability to work in a team.

Physical Job Requirements - Essential Functions
  • Hands on work on development hardware.
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs. unassisted.
  • Hands on work on development hardware.
  • Long periods of standing, crouching, walking.
  • Must be able to climb ladders and be comfortable working in tight spaces.
  • Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls.

Location Requirement: Ability to work 100% onsite in Torrance, CA (remote or hybrid work will not be considered)
Vital Lyfe is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Vital Lyfe 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.

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