ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Valley Milk LLC

Relief Laboratory Technician

Turlock, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Perform laboratory testing including Near Infrared (NIR), scorch, acidity, butterfat, total solids ... Calibrate and maintain NIR equipment. Assist with setting up new in-house testing equipment and ...

Nexus HR

Medical Assistant With CPT I

Newman, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Medical Assistant With CPT I - Newman, CA Compensation: $23 - $25 per hour DOE Nexus HR is looking ... Clinical & Laboratory Duties (CDPH-Compliant) * Perform venipuncture and capillary puncture to ...

Nexus HR

Medical Assistant With CPT I

Merced, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Medical Assistant With CPT I - Newman, CA Compensation: $23 - $25 per hour DOE Nexus HR is looking ... Clinical & Laboratory Duties (CDPH-Compliant) * Perform venipuncture and capillary puncture to ...

Nexus HR Services

Medical Assistant With CPT I

Merced, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Medical Assistant With CPT I - Newman, CA Compensation: $23 - $25 per hour DOE Nexus HR is looking ... Clinical & Laboratory Duties (CDPH-Compliant) * Perform venipuncture and capillary puncture to ...

Nexus HR Services

Medical Assistant With CPT I

Newman, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Medical Assistant With CPT I - Newman, CA Compensation: $23 - $25 per hour DOE Nexus HR is looking ... Clinical & Laboratory Duties (CDPH-Compliant) * Perform venipuncture and capillary puncture to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaboratory JobsLaboratory Assistant JobsLaboratory Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA

Laboratory Assistant information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory assistant in Merced, CA is $21.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory assistant?

Laboratory assistants are professionals who support scientists, researchers, and lab technicians by performing routine tasks in laboratories. Their duties often include preparing and cleaning lab equipment, collecting and labeling samples, conducting basic experiments, and maintaining accurate records of their work. They play a crucial role in ensuring that laboratories run smoothly and efficiently, and their work helps facilitate scientific research and development. Laboratory assistants may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, research institutions, and educational facilities.

What are some common challenges laboratory assistants face in maintaining accuracy and safety in their daily tasks?

Laboratory Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple samples simultaneously while adhering to strict protocols for accuracy and contamination prevention. Ensuring proper labeling, handling hazardous materials safely, and maintaining detailed records are essential responsibilities that require attention to detail and strong time management skills. Collaboration with scientists and technicians is also important, as clear communication helps prevent errors and promotes a safe, efficient work environment. Staying up-to-date on safety procedures and laboratory best practices is key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Laboratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, sample handling, and safety protocols, usually supported by a relevant science degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), basic laboratory equipment, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for maintaining accuracy and collaborating with team members. These abilities ensure reliable results, uphold safety standards, and support the overall efficiency and integrity of laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Laboratory Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationPost-secondary education, often a diploma or associate degree in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research labs, educational institutionsMedical labs, research facilities, industrial laboratories
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample collection, preparing specimens, cleaning equipmentPerforming tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment
Common UsageOften entry-level, supporting technical staffMore technical, with independent testing responsibilities

Laboratory Assistants typically support laboratory operations with basic tasks and require minimal formal education. Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis, often needing specialized training or certification. Both roles are essential in lab settings, but Laboratory Technicians usually have a higher level of technical responsibility.

Do you need qualifications to be a laboratory assistant?

Laboratory assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and basic knowledge of safety procedures.

How do you become a laboratory assistant?

To become a laboratory assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant laboratory or scientific coursework. Some positions require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory techniques, and strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and familiarity with lab equipment are important for success.

How much does a laboratory assistant get paid?

The average salary for a laboratory assistant varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, often working in clinical, research, or industrial labs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory jobs in Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Laboratory jobs in Merced, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Assistant jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Assistant jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Laboratory Assistant jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Laboratory Assistant job openings:

Laboratory Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Assistant job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,473 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) Laboratory Assistant II

Sutter Health

Turlock, CA • On-site

$27.98 - $39.17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Sutter Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 327 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 889 rated healthcare providers

Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!

Organization:

SGMF-Sutter Gould Med Foundation

Position Overview:

Collects blood specimens, as well as receives, handles and processes specimens for Laboratory testing. Interacts with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behavior. Receives, sorts and accessions specimens, assigning to appropriate pre-analytic and analytic workflow. Completes computerized tasks related to patient registration and/or test order entry, specimen collection, receiving and processing. Performs basic post-analytic tasks, including distributing reports, storing and/or retrieving specimens. Completes quality-related tasks such as documentation of work, maintaining a clean, stocked and safe work area, and monitoring pending work, as well as escalating priority work. Operates and/or uses basic pre-analytic lab equipment. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure privacy and safety while delivering optimal patient care.

Job Description:


EDUCATION
HS Diploma: High School or General Education Diploma (GED) or equivalent education/experience
CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE
CA Licensed Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) I or II
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE AS TYPICALLY ACQUIRED IN:
1 year of basic clinical laboratory and phlebotomy experience as typically acquired in a similar environment.
SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge and practice of standard principles, processes, procedures, and equipment related to:
1) ordering Laboratory testing,
2) collecting blood specimens,
3) compassionately and effectively interacting with patients,
4) handling and processing biological specimens routinely submitted to the Laboratory for analysis.
Ability to accurately, precisely, and reliably perform job duties and assigned tasks.
Ability to organize and prioritize job duties and assigned tasks for completion within expected timeframes.
Ability to compassionately and effectively interact with patients of diverse ages, backgrounds, values, beliefs and behaviors.
Workflow Management Ability to appropriately respond to:
1) fluctuations in volume,
2) unexpected situations or problems such as equipment or IS failure,
3) shift-to-shift hand-offs,
4) STAT test orders,
5) specimen integrity issues,
6) regular review of pending logs, priority assignments, etc.
Adherence to Practices & Procedures:
1) Ability to follow standard practices, processes, and procedures in sequence.
2) Knowledge of applicable local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies, and procedures aimed at ensuring the privacy and safety of patients.
Applied Job Knowledge, Critical Thinking & Problem Solving:
1) Solid critical thinking in applying knowledge and decision-making.
2) Knowledge of and ability to recognize and appropriately escalate complex and unusual deviations, problems, unusual occurrences and unexpected outcomes.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work in a collaborative setting where the communication of current, factual, and relevant work information is required.

Job Shift:

Varied

Schedule:

Full Time

Shift Hours:

8

Days of the Week:

Variable

Weekend Requirements:

Every other Weekend, Rotating Weekends

Benefits:

Yes

Unions:

No

Position Status:

Non-Exempt

Weekly Hours:

40

Employee Status:

Regular

Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.

Pay Range is $27.98 to $39.17 / hour

The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.

What Sutter Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply