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Laboratory Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Operations Intern

Mountain View, CA ยท Hybrid

$18 - $23.50/hr

Sketch schematics for the laboratory to make suppliers understand the mechanical and thermal needs * Draft reports of the experimental investigation in the laboratory and co-work with the team in ...

Laboratory Operations Intern

Mountain View, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Sketch schematics for the laboratory to make suppliers understand the mechanical and thermal needs * Draft reports of the experimental investigation in the laboratory and co-work with the team in ...

Laboratory Operations Intern

Mountain View, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Sketch schematics for the laboratory to make suppliers understand the mechanical and thermal needs * Draft reports of the experimental investigation in the laboratory and co-work with the team in ...

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Laboratory Operations information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do laboratory operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory operations in California is $23.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Laboratory Operations vs Laboratory Technicians?

AspectLaboratory OperationsLaboratory Technicians
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a science or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentOversees lab processes, manages workflows, and ensures compliancePerforms testing, prepares samples, and maintains equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across research, clinical, and industrial labs for management rolesCommonly employed in clinical, medical, and research labs for technical tasks

Laboratory Operations roles focus on managing lab workflows, compliance, and overall lab efficiency, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Laboratory Technicians perform hands-on testing and sample preparation, typically with an associate degree or certification. While both work in laboratory settings, Laboratory Operations professionals handle oversight and coordination, whereas Laboratory Technicians execute technical tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in laboratory operations, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Laboratory Operations often encounter challenges such as managing workflow bottlenecks, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and maintaining equipment reliability. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to prioritize tasks and coordinate among team members. Proactively scheduling routine equipment maintenance and staying updated on regulatory changes can help minimize disruptions. Additionally, fostering a collaborative environment with researchers and technical staff supports smoother operations and problem-solving.

What are laboratory operations?

Laboratory operations refer to the management and coordination of activities within a laboratory to ensure accurate, efficient, and safe testing or research. This includes overseeing equipment maintenance, quality control, inventory management, compliance with safety regulations, and workflow optimization. Professionals in laboratory operations play a key role in supporting scientific, medical, or industrial projects by ensuring that all lab processes run smoothly and meet required standards.

What does a laboratory operations do?

A laboratory operations professional manages the daily functions of a laboratory, including overseeing equipment, ensuring safety protocols, maintaining supplies, and coordinating workflows. They often use laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and require knowledge of quality standards and regulatory compliance to support scientific research or testing processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in laboratory operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Laboratory Operations, you need a solid background in laboratory sciences, quality control, and management principles, usually supported by a degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), regulatory standards (such as CLIA or ISO), and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure smooth workflow and compliance. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining accurate results, operational efficiency, and regulatory adherence in laboratory environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory Operations jobs in California? The most popular types of Laboratory Operations jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Operations jobs in California? For Laboratory Operations jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Operations jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Operations jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Laboratory Operations jobs? Cities in California with the most Laboratory Operations job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Operations job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,685 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

$28 - $35/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Laboratory Operations Specialist - Pharmaceutical Industry
QUICK FACTS
  • Location: San Diego, CA 92122
  • Pay range: $28.00 - $35.00 per hour
  • Shifts: Monday - Friday, standard office hours
  • Duration: Contract to Perm
EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION YOU WILL NEED
  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related field preferred
  • 2-5+ years of experience in laboratory operations, research support, or facilities coordination
  • Experience with inventory management, vendor relations, and equipment maintenance
  • Familiarity with regulated lab environments (GMP, GLP, GCP) a plus
  • Strong organizational and communication skills
MAIN DUTIES OF THE JOB
  • Support daily laboratory operations, safety, and organization
  • Manage inventory, supplies, and vendor relationships
  • Coordinate equipment maintenance and safety compliance
  • Assist with onboarding, space planning, and operational documentation
  • Serve as point of contact for facilities and support services

The company is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age or disability, or any other class protected by Federal, State or local laws.
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