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Lab Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Prime Healthcare

CDS Trainee

National City, CA

$25 - $28.75/hr

... lab, and comprehensive inpatient and outpatient surgical services, and 24-hour emergency services ... CDS Trainee will work closely with the medical staff to facilitate appropriate clinical ...

Paradise Valley Hospital

CDS Trainee

National City, CA · On-site

$25 - $28.75/hr

... lab, and comprehensive inpatient and outpatient surgical services, and 24-hour emergency services ... CDS Trainee will work closely with the medical staff to facilitate appropriate clinical ...

cityofabilene

IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES Laboratory Technician Trainee Collect samples and prepare for testing, including water, wastewater, and sludge. Calibrate, maintain, and set up equipment for various ...

cityofabilene

IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES Laboratory Technician Trainee Collect samples and prepare for testing, including water, wastewater, and sludge. Calibrate, maintain, and set up equipment for various ...

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Lab Trainee information

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$13

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$35

How much do lab trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab trainee in California is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Lab Trainees during their initial months, and how can they be addressed?

Lab Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning to use specialized equipment, and managing time efficiently amidst multiple tasks. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking guidance from experienced team members and regularly reviewing standard operating procedures can ease the transition. Open communication with supervisors and participating in hands-on training sessions also help build confidence and competence in the lab environment.

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

To thrive as a Lab Trainee, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, attention to detail, and often at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, basic data analysis software, and adherence to safety protocols are typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and eagerness to learn help Lab Trainees excel and contribute positively to team dynamics. These skills ensure experiments are conducted accurately, safely, and efficiently, supporting reliable research outcomes.

What is the difference between Lab Trainee vs Lab Technician?

AspectLab TraineeLab Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant education; no formal certification requiredUsually holds a diploma or certification in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, learning-focusedOperational laboratory environment, performing routine tests and procedures
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, hospitals during trainingHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities

In summary, a Lab Trainee is primarily in a learning phase, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Lab Technician is a trained professional responsible for conducting laboratory tests independently.

What are Lab Trainees?

Lab Trainees are individuals who are undergoing training in a laboratory setting to gain practical experience and develop essential skills in scientific research or testing. Their responsibilities often include assisting with experiments, preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and learning laboratory safety protocols. Lab Trainees work under the supervision of experienced scientists or technicians and may be students, recent graduates, or new employees. This position provides foundational experience necessary for a career in science or laboratory technology.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Lab Trainee jobs in California? For Lab Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Trainee jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Trainee jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lab Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Lab Trainee job openings:
Lab Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Trainee job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,414 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
STAFF SCIENTIST - JIN LAB - Neuroscience

STAFF SCIENTIST - JIN LAB - Neuroscience

Scripps Research

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

ABOUT US:
Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution in the world for its impact on innovation. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Scientists in the institute's five academic research departments work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs to better human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.
POSITION TITLE: Staff Scientist
POSITION SUMMARY: The Jin Lab is seeking a highly motivated and talented Staff Scientist. The ideal candidate will possess outstanding scientific credentials, including publications in high-impact journals relevant to genomics, imaging, and cell biology. The Staff Scientist will work with scientific project leads and trainees in carrying out day-to-day research across a range of genomics projects. They will oversee and direct the development of novel genomic assays involving single cell and spatial genomic experiments and state-of-the-art imaging analysis. The Staff Scientist will utilize project management skills to prioritize and manage consortium collaborations, coordinate within and across labs in the consortium, and ensure scientific progression. Working with the Principal Investigator and senior scientific team, support projects through monitoring milestone achievements and completion of required reporting.
RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:
  • Work closely with scientific leads and trainees in the Jin lab, mentoring and directing scientific projects, with a focus on neurogenomics and functional genomic technologies.
  • Oversee daily lab operations and engage in cutting-edge molecular neuroscience research.
  • Carry out and/or coordinate research projects. Set up and evaluate new laboratory techniques.
  • Work both independently and collaboratively with team members to support the science of the lab. Potential for contributions to scientific publications.
  • May train others in technical areas and complex processes.
  • With the scientific teams, ensure projects are progressing as planned and remain on track for completion. Lead the establishment of scientific workplans and completion of regular reports as required by funding organizations.
  • Schedule and plan agendas for routine and ad-hoc project meetings.
  • Maintain notes and actions from project meetings, following up with scientific leads and/or collaborating research institutions to ensure actions are well prioritized and completed in a timely manner.
  • Establish a positive atmosphere towards the growth of lab trainees.

REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ph.D. in an appropriate scientific discipline required. Minimum of two years postdoctoral experience or four years' experience in project management and/or leadership. Experience managing scientists and engineers to develop technical solutions to scientific problems.
  • Demonstrated experience working with a diverse set of colleagues, including scientists, engineers, administrators, and engagement managers with a variety of backgrounds.
  • Strategic and analytical thinking
  • Strong oral and written communications skills coupled with effective interpersonal and collaboration skills

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
This position works in an office environment. Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.
LOCATION: La Jolla, California
COMPENSATION: The expected hiring range for this position is $78,000 to $109.200 per year, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.
COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:
  • Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
  • Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
  • Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
  • Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
  • Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.
EEO STATEMENT:
The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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