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Medical Lab Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Medical Lab Assistant

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Medical Lab Assistant Ascend Clinical, LLC is one of the highest-volume clinical laboratories in the United States, processing millions of tests each month with advanced tools and technology. For ...

Medical Lab Assistant

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Medical Lab Assistant Locations: Sunnyvale, CAWhy Ascend? Come work for a company that is transforming the industry! Ascend Clinical, LLC is one of the highest-volume clinical laboratories in the ...

Medical Lab Assistant Locations: Sunnyvale, CA Why Ascend? Come work for a company that is transforming the industry! Ascend Clinical, LLC is one of the highest-volume clinical laboratories in the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Medical Lab Assistant information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$55

How much do medical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical lab assistant in California is $23.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical lab assistant?

Medical Lab Assistants are healthcare professionals who support laboratory technologists and technicians by preparing samples, conducting basic tests, and ensuring lab equipment is clean and functioning. They play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of patients by handling specimens such as blood, urine, and tissue. Their responsibilities include labeling samples, recording data, and sometimes interacting with patients to collect samples. Medical Lab Assistants work in hospitals, clinics, research laboratories, and diagnostic centers, helping to ensure accurate and timely test results.

What does a medical lab assistant do?

As a medical lab assistant, you typically work in a hospital or clinical/medical laboratory. This role is slightly different than a lab tech position in that you have less responsibility. As a lab assistant, it’s your job to assist technologists and technicians with lab tests. Depending on the specific position, your duties may include preparing specimens, managing their storage, and keeping track of the results. Other everyday tasks involve keeping the lab equipment clean, maintaining an accurate inventory of supplies, and placing orders as needed. You may also have administrative duties, like billing and filing.

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

To thrive as a Medical Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and safety protocols, typically gained through a diploma or certificate in medical laboratory technology. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), centrifuges, and automated analyzers is important for efficient workflow. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accurate results and smooth collaboration with healthcare teams. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining high standards of laboratory accuracy, safety, and timely patient care.

What are some common challenges medical lab assistants face in their daily work, and how can they be managed?

Medical Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as handling a high volume of specimens, maintaining accuracy under time pressure, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Managing these challenges involves strong organizational skills, effective communication with laboratory technologists and other healthcare staff, and diligent attention to detail. Many labs offer ongoing training and support to help assistants stay current with best practices and improve workflow efficiency, ensuring patient safety and reliable test results.

What is the difference between Medical Lab Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectMedical Lab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, phlebotomy certificationAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology, certification often required
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job DutiesSample collection, preparing specimens, basic testingPerforming complex tests, analyzing samples, operating lab equipment
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, clinicsHospitals, research labs, diagnostic centers

Medical Lab Assistants typically handle sample collection and basic tasks, while Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. Both roles are essential in healthcare labs, but Technicians usually require more advanced education and certification.

How much does a medical lab assistant get paid?

A medical lab assistant typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certification. Salaries can vary based on the healthcare setting and whether the role involves specialized skills or advanced equipment. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with additional certifications can earn higher wages.

Is a medical lab assistant a good career?

A medical lab assistant is a valuable healthcare professional who performs laboratory tests and prepares specimens, supporting diagnosis and treatment. The role typically requires attention to detail, technical skills, and certification, with job prospects generally stable due to ongoing demand in healthcare settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Lab jobs in California?

The most popular types of Medical Lab jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Medical Lab Assistant jobs in California?

For Medical Lab Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Medical Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Medical Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Medical Lab Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,355 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Loma Linda University Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

100th of 1,060 rated hospitals


Job description


This is a temporary position beginning August 31, 2026, and ending January 31, 2027. The successful candidate will be employed for the duration of this assignment, with employment concluding on January 31, 2027, unless otherwise extended or modified based on organizational needs. It's a great opportunity to gain valuable experience, contribute to a supportive team, and make a meaningful impact during our busy season.
Job Summary: The Medical Lab Assistant performs preanalytic specimen collection, identification, order entry, verification, specimen handling and communication duties. Receives phone calls from internal and external customers. Triages calls appropriately or relays messages to staff in an accurate and timely way. Demonstrates proficiency in operating multiple electronic applications used for scheduling appointments, ordering tests, obtaining test results, messaging, recording patient information, etc. These services may be provided for both the LLUMC and LLUCH hospitals. Performs other duties as needed.
Education and Experience: High School Diploma or GED required. One year of experience in a high complexity medical lab performing specimen collection, pediatric collections, and computer data entry preferred.
Knowledge and Skills: Possesses excellent dexterity and analytic skills. Ability to safely and accurately perform skin puncture and venipuncture after employment without direct and constant supervision. Ability to operate technical instruments and equipment, input data and type. Ability to use available resource material independently to resolve and document challenges constructively. Able to read; write and speak with professional quality; use computer and software programs necessary to the position (e.g., Word, Excel, Power Point, Access); operate/troubleshoot basic office equipment required for the position. Relate and communicate positively, effectively, and professionally with others; provide leadership; be assertive and consistent in enforcing policies ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, rules and laws; work calmly and respond courteously when under pressure; lead, supervise, teach, and collaborate; accept direction. Think critically; work independently; perform basic math and statistical functions; manage multiple assignments; compose written material; work well under pressure; problem solve; organize and prioritize workload; recall information with accuracy; pay close attention to detail. Distinguish colors as necessary; hear sufficiently for general conversation in person and on the telephone, and identify and distinguish various sounds associated with the workplace; see adequately to read computer screens, and written documents necessary to the position.
Licensures and Certifications: California Phlebotomy Technician certification (CPT1) required. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification issued by the American Heart Association required. Valid driver's license required.
About Us
Our mission is to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Our core values are compassion, excellence, humility, integrity, justice, teamwork and wholeness.
About the Team
Loma Linda University Health is a Seventh-day Adventist, faith and values based Christian institution. Candidates must understand and embrace the mission, purpose, and identity of Loma Linda and its affiliated entities.
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to the principles of diversity. We provide equal opportunities in all aspects of the employment process to every individual, regardless of gender, race, color, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law. In addition, we will provide reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified individuals requesting an accommodation due to a disability. If you need accommodation assistance with accessing our job listings or completing an application, or during any other phase of employment with us, please contact Human Resources Management at (909) 651-4001.
Loma Linda University Medical Center is a religiously-qualified Equal Opportunity Employer under Title VII of Civil Rights Act of 1964. No question on this application is asked for the purpose of unlawfully limiting or excluding any applicant's consideration for employment because of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law. If you need a reasonable accommodation in the hiring process, please notify Human Resource Management.
We appreciate your interest in Loma Linda and wish you success in your job search!

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About Loma Linda University Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) is an esteemed healthcare organization situated in Loma Linda, California, US. Established in 1905, it was initially known as the College of Medical Evangelists, and it operated as the official medical institution of the Seventh-day Adventist Church until the name was changed to LLUH in 1961. LLUH is very much active in the healthcare and education sectors, providing a vast range of services such as medical treatment, research, and health education. The organization’s core mission is "to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ", which underlines its binding values of compassion, integrity, excellence, freedom, and justice.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitality services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Loma Linda, CA, US