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Lab Tech Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

Apple Inc.

Lab Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$79 - $164/hr

As an Electronics Lab Manager, you will be the backbone of our hardware engineering environment ... A self-starter mindset with a genuine passion for learning new skills and technologies

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Spherion Staffing Corporation

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Quality Technician (Hands-On Lab Focus)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Role Overview Our client, a leader in surgical robotic technology, is seeking a hands-on Quality Technician for a 6-month contract in San Jose, CA. This is a lab-based role focused on the physical ...

Clariant

Sr. Lab Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Onsite Clariant is seeking a Senior Lab Engineer to join the Catalyst Research & Development team ... In this role, you will support the development of next-generation catalyst technologies through ...

Spherion Staffing Corporation

Be Seen First

Quality Technician (Hands-On Lab Focus)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Role Overview Our client, a leader in surgical robotic technology, is seeking a hands-on Quality Technician for a 6-month contract in San Jose, CA. This is a lab-based role focused on the physical ...

Eridu AI

Lab Intern

Saratoga, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Position Overview Eridu is looking for a hands-on and motivated Lab Intern to support our ... technology that pushes the boundaries of AI performance. Your contributions will directly impact ...

Advantest

SI / PI Lab Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

As an SI and PI Engineer; you will work collaboratively with other Advantest technology groups ... Experienced with use of relevant lab instruments (high speed oscilloscopes, VNA, TDR, spectrum ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsLab Tech JobsLab Tech Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

Lab Tech information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$14

$26

$39

How much do lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab tech in Santa Cruz, CA is $26.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lab tech do?

A Lab Tech, or Laboratory Technician, is responsible for performing tests, experiments, and analyses in medical, research, or industrial laboratories. They prepare samples, operate laboratory equipment, and record data to assist scientists and medical professionals in diagnosing diseases, conducting research, or ensuring product quality. Lab Techs also maintain lab cleanliness, manage inventories, and follow strict safety protocols to ensure accurate and reliable results.

What are some typical challenges lab techs face when working in a fast-paced laboratory environment?

Lab Techs often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring accurate and timely sample processing, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols. Working efficiently under time constraints while minimizing errors is crucial, especially when handling sensitive or hazardous materials. Collaboration with other lab staff and clear communication are essential to ensure smooth workflow and to quickly address any technical issues that may arise.

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

To thrive as a Lab Tech, you need a solid background in biology or chemistry, attention to detail, and typically an associate degree or relevant certification. Proficiency with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is essential. Strong organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set outstanding Lab Techs apart. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain safety standards, and support effective collaboration in laboratory environments.

What is the difference between Lab Tech vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab TechMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsTypically requires an associate degree or certificationRequires an associate degree and certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Job DutiesPerforming tests, preparing samples, maintaining equipmentPerforming laboratory tests, analyzing samples, recording results
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and diagnostic labsPrimarily in healthcare settings, especially hospitals and clinics

Lab Tech and Medical Laboratory Technician roles are similar, often overlapping in work environment and duties. The main difference lies in certification requirements and specific job responsibilities. Both roles are essential in healthcare for accurate diagnostics and patient care.

How do you become a lab tech?

To become a lab tech, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by an associate degree in laboratory technology or a related field. Certification from a recognized organization, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), can improve job prospects, and technical skills with laboratory equipment and safety procedures are essential.

What can you do as a lab tech?

A lab tech performs laboratory tests, prepares samples, operates scientific equipment, and records data to assist in diagnosing diseases or conducting research. They follow safety protocols, maintain lab cleanliness, and often require technical skills and certifications relevant to their specific field. Their work supports healthcare, research, and quality control processes.

What is the work of a lab technician?

A lab technician performs tests and experiments in laboratories to assist in diagnosing diseases, developing products, or conducting research. They prepare samples, operate laboratory equipment, record data, and follow safety protocols, often requiring attention to detail and technical skills. Lab technicians typically work under the supervision of scientists or medical professionals and may need certifications depending on the field.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab technician?

To become a lab technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with post-secondary education such as an associate degree in laboratory technology or a related field. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the specific laboratory or industry, and strong attention to detail, technical skills, and familiarity with laboratory equipment are important.
More about Lab Tech jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab Tech jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

The most popular types of Lab Tech jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Lab Tech jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

For Lab Tech jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Tech jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Tech jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:

What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Lab Tech jobs?

Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Lab Tech job openings:

Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Tech job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,112 per year, or $26 per hour.

Dry Lab Associate 1st shift - 90 Day Increase Eligible

TTM Technologies

San Jose, CA • On-site

$41K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

TTM Technologies, Inc. - Publicly Traded US Company, NASDAQ (TTMI) - Top-5 Global Printed Circuit Board Manufacturer
About TTM
TTM Technologies, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of technology products, including mission systems, radio frequency ("RF") components, RF microwave/microelectronic assemblies, and technologically advanced printed circuit boards ("PCB"s). TTM stands for time-to-market, representing how TTM's time-critical, one-stop design, engineering and manufacturing services enable customers to reduce the time required to develop new products and bring them to market.
Additional information can be found at www.ttm.com
TTM strives to invest in our team members at all levels - starting on your first day. To support the growth and development of our new hires, this position is eligible for a 90-Day Evaluation that includes a pay increase if key performance indicators are met.
As a Dry Lab Associate, you will be performing a variety of tasks. Your strong attention to detail and safety orientation would play a key role in producing printed circuit boards. We offer training for those that have never worked on printed circuit boards before. The Dry Lab Associate performs the testing of products within the dry lab department.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Involved in the preparation and analysis of microsection samples
  • Ability to work with chemicals such as but not limited to alcohol and acrylics.
  • Works on micro sectioning samples of printed circuit boards
  • Perform the testing of the products and completing documentation
  • Apply industry standards to determine acceptability of product
  • Communicates regularly to supervisors and managers, suggests and composes procedural changes, maintains a clean, safe work environment, and communicates to supervisors safety hazards and issues.
  • Responsibilities include the reporting of all accidents, near misses and safety concerns. Perform their job duties utilizing the required and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Full participation in safety training and the ability to understand and follow the directions identified in Job Safety Analysis (JSA), PPE Assessments, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and all Safety Procedures and Alerts.

Essential Knowledge and Skills:
  • Attention to detail
  • Must be self-motivated and able to work with little or no supervision
  • Ability to work with microscopes
  • Ability to work in a small group setting is preferred

Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent is required
  • Experience in manufacturing is a plus
  • Previous microscope experience is helpful

#LI-IP1
#COMBU
Compensation and Benefits:
TTM offers a variety of health and well-being benefit programs. Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, 401k, flexible spending and health savings accounts, accident benefits, life insurance, disability benefits, paid vacation & holidays. Benefits are available on the 1st of the month following date of hire. For some positions, only PTO and holiday benefits are offered.
Compensation ranges for roles at TTM Technologies varies depending on a wide array of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At TTM Technologies, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on each individual set of circumstances. A reasonable estimate of the current range is:
$41,818 - $66,100
Additional compensation: An annual or quarterly company bonus may apply based on position assignment. Positions hired for alternative shift may be eligible for a shift premium based on the assigned shift and location.
Export Statement:
Must comply with TTM Export Control Policies and Procedures and all applicable laws including ITAR, EAR and OFAC including but not limited to: a) being able to identify ITAR product on the manufacturing floor and understand that access to these products and related technical data is restricted to only US Citizens and US Permanent Residents; b) recognition of Foreign Person visitors by badge differentiation; c) understand and follow authorization procedures for bringing foreign visitors into facilities (VAL); d) understand the Export and ITAR requirements for shipments leaving the US; e) manage vendor approvals for ITAR manufacturing and services.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, disability or protected veteran status.

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