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Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Evaluate operations and activities of the laboratory; recommend improvements and modifications; assist in the implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and procedures. Assist in budget ...

Laboratory Manager

Redlands, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $143K/yr

Evaluate operations and activities of the laboratory; recommend improvements and modifications; assist in the implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and procedures. * Assist in budget ...

Laboratory Technician

Tustin, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $25/hr

The Laboratory Technician will assist with specimen processing and test performance while complying with all regulatory agency guidelines. This role requires knowledge of laboratory procedures ...

Back Office - Medical Assistant I

Pomona, CA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

... laboratory. Assist in providing on-going supervision to same staff. * Assist as needed including medication refill requests, specialty and procedure referrals, pre and post clinic chart review.

Showing results 21-40

Laboratory Assistant information

See Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA is $21.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.09 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 Riverside, CA?

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

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Laboratory Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Laboratory Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,935 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Lab Assistant - Clinical Lab

Chino Valley Medical Center

Chino, CA โ€ข On-site

$24.58/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Overview
Chino Valley Medical Center is a 112-bed community hospital established in 1972 and centrally located in Southern California's Chino Valley. A nine-time recipient of the Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award (2014-2022), Chino Valley Medical Center has been recognized nationally for its quality, including as among the 100 Great Community Hospitals by Becker's Hospital Review in 2018 and as among the 100 Top Hospitals by IBM Watson Health. Chino Valley Medical Center is committed to serving the community's health care needs with top-rated emergency care as well as senior services, orthopedics, surgical services and more. Learn more at www.cvmc.com.
Join an award-winning team of dedicated professionals committed to our core values of quality, compassion and community!
Why Prime Healthcare? Chino Valley Medical Center, a member of Prime Healthcare, offers incredible opportunities to expand your horizons and be part of a community dedicated to making a difference.
Chino Valley Medical Center offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package that provides employees the flexibility to tailor benefits according to their individual needs
Our Total Rewards package includes, but is not limited to:
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401K retirement plan
  • Outstanding Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision Coverage
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Many more Voluntary Benefit Options!

Benefits may vary based on collective bargaining agreement requirements and/or the employment status, i.e. full-time or part-time.
Chino Valley Medical Center is nationally recognized, locally preferred, and community focused.
Responsibilities
The Laboratory Assistant will follow the guidelines set by CLIA, and the CA Business and Professions Codes (bpc: 1212, 1269). Unlicensed laboratory personnel ("aides") may not, read, record, result, verify or interpret any laboratory test. Unlicensed laboratory personnel may not perform any test involving the quantitative measurement of specimen or reagent, or perform any mathematical calculation in determining a test result or validity of a test procedure. Unlicensed laboratory personnel may not perform instrument calibration or review quality control results to monitor the performance of the instrument or test procedure. Unlicensed personnel require direct and constant supervision by a CLS or other licensed person identified in bpc: 1269, during the entire time they are assisting in the analytical testing phase.
The Laboratory Assistant: 1) performs computer entry, filing, telephone communication and other clerical duties, 2) demonstrates good telephone etiquette and be able to greet patients and other visitors in a polite and friendly manner, 3) possesses good communication skills, 4) demonstrates adequate knowledge of the terminology of tests ordered in the laboratory, 5) demonstrates a good working knowledge of phlebotomy and the equipment used in collecting specimens from newborns to geriatric patients, 6) processes pathology, microbiology, immunology, hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, chemistry, and blood bank specimens, 7) processes specimens for reference laboratory, 8) stocks and orders routine supplies, 9) keeps storage areas, trays, centrifuges, and collection areas clean, 10) processes or places specimens on laboratory instruments in accordance with established policy and procedures, 11) with proper documented training the laboratory assistant may perform, instrument preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, assist in quality control procedures, perform, primary culture inoculations, stain slide preparations, and subculture from liquid media. 11) other tasks or responsibilities may be assigned by the department manager/director, ie monitor, mail, fax, answer phone, inter departmental deliveries. Etc. 12) Assist in Pathology with training and eval. 13) Runner
Qualifications
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING
1. HS Diploma or Equivalent required
2. Minimum 1-year clinical laboratory experience performing similar job functions preferred
3. State Certified as CPT I or CPT II if the laboratory is located in a state where required.
4. Current BCLS (AHA) certificate upon hire and maintain current preferred.
#LI-DNI
Pay Transparency
Chino Valley Medical Center offers competitive compensation and a reasonable compensation estimate for this role is $24.58. The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire, in which a wide range of factors will be considered, including but not limited to, skillset, years of applicable experience, education, credentials and licensure.
Employment Status
Per Diem
Shift
Variable
Equal Employment Opportunity
Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf