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Laboratory Associate Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Sr. Clinical Laboratory Associate (Sr. CLA) is an enthusiastic, self-motivated individual with great communication skills. Along with the duties described below, this individual ...

Position Summary The Clinical Laboratory Associate II (CLA II) is an enthusiastic, self-motivated individual with great communication skills. Along with the duties described below, this individual ...

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Laboratory Associate information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$15

$27

$41

How much do laboratory associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory associate in Berkeley, CA is $27.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laboratory associate?

Laboratory Associates are professionals who assist with various tasks in a laboratory setting, such as preparing samples, conducting basic experiments, maintaining equipment, and recording data. They often work under the supervision of scientists or laboratory managers and play a crucial role in supporting research and development activities. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the specific laboratory and industry, but attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of lab safety protocols are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory associate?

To thrive as a Laboratory Associate, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and a background in biological or chemical sciences, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), safety protocols, and specialized equipment such as spectrophotometers or centrifuges is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help Laboratory Associates excel in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills ensure accurate results, safety, and efficiency, which are vital for reliable scientific research and operations.

What are some typical challenges laboratory associates face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing tasks such as sample preparation, data collection, and equipment maintenance can be challenging, especially when experiments have overlapping schedules or strict deadlines. Effective communication with team members and clear documentation are crucial to ensure that procedures are followed accurately and results remain reliable. Many labs use digital systems to track progress and share updates, which helps associates manage their workload efficiently.

What is the difference between Laboratory Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationAssociate degree or certification, often similar
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, healthcare, pharmaceutical settingsResearch, clinical, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, research institutions, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Laboratory Associates and Laboratory Technicians often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. Both roles support laboratory operations in healthcare, research, or industrial settings. The main differences are often related to specific job duties and employer terminology, but they are frequently used interchangeably depending on the organization.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Associate jobs in Berkeley, CA?

For Laboratory Associate jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Laboratory Associate jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Laboratory Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Associate job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,968 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Laboratory Associate Director - Immunogenetics and Transplantation Laboratory (ITL)

University of California, San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$150K - $319K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Application Window
Open date: February 6, 2026
Most recent review date: Sunday, Mar 8, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.
Final date: Friday, Aug 6, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
Laboratory Associate Director - Immunogenetics and Transplantation Laboratory (ITL)
Division of Transplant Surgery
Department of Surgery
University of California, San Francisco

The Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, is seeking outstanding candidates to serve as the Histocompatibility Laboratory Associate Director for its state-of-the-art histocompatibility laboratory. Candidates must have a MD and/or PhD degree, or an equivalent degree, be certified by the American College of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ACHI) and be licensed/eligible by the State of California to serve as the Histocompatibility Laboratory Associate Director. The laboratory serves a large solid organ and bone marrow transplant program at UCSF. The laboratory offers one of the most advanced and largest molecular histocompatibility testing programs in the region. The Associate Director will work closely with the Director of the laboratory.
Candidates must have documented expertise in serological and molecular histocompatibility testing using high-throughput systems and flow cytometry. In addition, skills in quality systems administration, teaching, personnel management of technical and administrative staff, consultation with laboratory clients such as transplant surgeons and hematopoietic stem cell transplant physicians, and overall administration of a complex histocompatibility laboratory are essential. The ideal candidate should also have research interests, a history of independent research funding, and expertise in immunology, transplantation, and related areas.
Candidates must have recognized skills in the education of surgery residents and medical students and will be expected to be active participants in the Department's residency training and educational programs.
UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, and community services that have prepared them to contribute to our commitment to excellence.
The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. See Table 5 . The minimum base salary range for this position is $150,200 - $319,800. This position includes membership in the health sciences compensation plan which provides for eligibility for additional compensation.
Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF05930 .
Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
  • Cover Letter
  • Statement of Research
  • Statement of Teaching

Reference requirements
  • 5 required (contact information only)

About UC San Francisco
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
UCSF is committed to welcoming and serving all people, honoring the dignity of every individual without preference or prejudice, in support of its public mission and in alignment with our PRIDE values and Principles of Community.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment
Job location
San Francisco, CA

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