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Microbiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Certified Group

Lab Assistant

Tustin, CA

Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing, and organizing media and reagents essential to analytical and microbiological testing of food ...

Certified Group

Lab Assistant

Tustin, CA

Certified Laboratories - Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

Certified Group

Lab Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

Certified Laboratories - Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

Fujifilm

Quality Control Lab Assistant

Santa Ana, CA

$20.84 - $27.19/hr

The Quality Control Lab Assistant will support the QC Department under the direction of a QC Lead Microbiologist or above by providing general support required for the testing and release of FUJIFILM ...

Fujifilm

Quality Control Lab Assistant

Santa Ana, CA

$20.84 - $27.19/hr

The Quality Control Lab Assistant will support the QC Department under the direction of a QC Lead Microbiologist or above by providing general support required for the testing and release of FUJIFILM ...

Ventura Foods

Quality Assurance Auditor

Ontario, CA · On-site

$32.03 - $40.19/hr

Monitor microbiology lab for supplies. Assist in testing as needed. Schedule work areas as needed * Help coordinate training of plant personnel for GMP, SOP, HACCP, food security and allergens

Ventura Foods

Quality Assurance Auditor

Ontario, CA · On-site

$32.03 - $40.19/hr

Monitor microbiology lab for supplies. Assist in testing as needed. Schedule work areas as needed * Help coordinate training of plant personnel for GMP, SOP, HACCP, food security and allergens

Ventura Foods

Quality Assurance Auditor

Ontario, CA

$32.03 - $40.19/hr

Monitor microbiology lab for supplies. Assist in testing as needed. Schedule work areas as needed * Help coordinate training of plant personnel for GMP, SOP, HACCP, food security and allergens

Ventura Foods

Quality Assurance Auditor

Ontario, CA

$32.03 - $40.19/hr

Monitor microbiology lab for supplies. Assist in testing as needed. Schedule work areas as needed * Help coordinate training of plant personnel for GMP, SOP, HACCP, food security and allergens

Certified Group

Chemistry Lab Tech

Tustin, CA

$20 - $26.50/hr

JOB SUMMARY Assist in the chemical testing of food products, ingredients, and other matrices with ... Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological ...

Certified Group

Chemistry Lab Tech

Tustin, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Certified Laboratories - Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily ... JOB SUMMARY Assist in the chemical testing of food products, ingredients, and other matrices with ...

Certified Group

Chemistry Lab Tech

Tustin, CA

$21 - $24/hr

Certified Laboratories - Provides comprehensive analytical and microbiological testing, primarily ... JOB SUMMARY Assist in the chemical testing of food products, ingredients, and other matrices with ...

Trident Care

Clinical Lab Scientist - Tustin

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$50/hr

Able to communicate with nurses and physicians, and ability to work well with others. * Assist the ... microbiology, chemistry, biology or related field. * Possession of Clinical Laboratory Scientist ...

TridentCare

Clinical Lab Scientist - Tustin

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$50/hr

Able to communicate with nurses and physicians, and ability to work well with others. * Assist the ... microbiology, chemistry, biology or related field. * Possession of Clinical Laboratory Scientist ...

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All JobsMicrobiology Lab JobsMicrobiology Lab Assistant JobsMicrobiology Lab Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Microbiology Lab Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$23

$36

How much do microbiology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology lab assistant in Riverside, CA is $23.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microbiology Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of microbiological techniques, laboratory safety protocols, and at least an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, aseptic techniques, and data management systems such as LIMS is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurate sample processing and teamwork. These competencies are vital for ensuring precise test results, maintaining lab safety, and supporting research or diagnostic objectives.

What does a Microbiology Lab Assistant do?

A Microbiology Lab Assistant supports microbiologists by preparing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and conducting basic laboratory tests. They help ensure experiments run smoothly by following strict protocols and keeping the lab organized and sterile. Their daily tasks may also include labeling specimens, recording data, and disposing of biohazardous materials properly. This role is essential for maintaining safety and accuracy in microbiological research and testing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Microbiology Lab Assistants and how can they be addressed?

Microbiology Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict sterile techniques to avoid contamination, accurately following protocols for sample preparation, and managing multiple tasks during busy periods. To address these, it’s important to develop strong organizational skills, pay close attention to detail, and communicate effectively with team members. Regularly reviewing standard operating procedures and participating in team meetings can also help ensure quality and efficiency in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Microbiology Lab Assistant vs Microbiology Technician?

AspectMicrobiology Lab AssistantMicrobiology Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate degree or relevant certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, hospitals, research facilitiesLaboratories, research centers, healthcare settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with sample preparation, cleaning, and basic tasksPerforming tests, analyzing samples, recording data
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare, research, and educational labsCommonly employed in clinical and industrial microbiology labs

While both roles support microbiology labs, Microbiology Lab Assistants typically handle basic tasks and support functions, whereas Microbiology Technicians perform more detailed testing and analysis. The roles often overlap in work environment and industry but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What Does a Microbiology Lab Assistant Do?

A microbiology lab assistant provides support for scientists and researchers in a microbiology lab where they study microbes, viruses, fungi, parasites, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms. In this career, you may work on sample collection, aid in the testing of cultures and samples, maintain a specimen record, and sterilize and clean equipment after testing. Some labs may also expect you to carry out other administrative duties. Your responsibilities as a microbiology lab assistant may also include recording data and maintaining records.

More about Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA? For Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
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Microbiology Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiology Lab Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,608 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Certified Group

Tustin, CA

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing, and organizing media and reagents essential to analytical and microbiological testing of food products, ingredients, and environmental samples. This role ensures the availability of accurate, sterile materials to support testing operations while maintaining laboratory safety and compliance standards.

Essential Responsibilities

  1. Prepare and maintain bacteriological media and chemical solutions.
  2. Safely operate an autoclave to sterilize media, reagents, and supplies.
  3. Label, handle, store, use, and dispose of media and solutions in accordance with safety guidelines.
  4. Maintain an accurate inventory of prepared media and supplies.
  5. Collaborate with other departments to prepare required media in a timely manner.
  6. Perform work in a neat, safe, hygienic, and efficient manner; maintain cleanliness and equipment within the department.
  7. Follow established processes, procedures, and techniques in accordance with FSNS policies/procedures, customer requirements, and the media operations manual.
  8. Maintain laboratory conditions, equipment, supplies, quality assurance programs, and accurate records throughout all procedures.
  9. Share information in an open and timely manner to support team collaboration.
  10. Complete required training and comply with safety and quality programs.

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Familiarity with aseptic sampling techniques.
  • Experience operating autoclaves and sterile dispensing equipment preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of testing laboratory practices and general laboratory procedures.
  • One or more years of experience in a commercial food-testing laboratory preferred.
  • Competency with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) a plus.
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong organizational skills and ability to complete detailed manual tasks.
  • Ability to work under deadlines, manage interruptions, and multitask effectively.
  • Logical thinking and accuracy in task completion.
  • Basic math skills: add, subtract, multiply, divide, and work with fractions and decimals.
  • Ability to follow written and oral instructions and problem-solve within standardized situations.
  • Working knowledge of ISO 17025 quality procedures and general OSHA laboratory safety guidelines preferred.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

  • Frequent standing, walking, sitting, reaching, and handling of materials.
  • Occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
  • Regular use of hands and fingers to operate laboratory equipment and computers.
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Potential exposure to odors, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and microbiological pathogens.
  • Varying noise levels and temperatures (hot to cold).
  • Fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
  • Overnight travel may be required at the discretion of management.
  • Must wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment.

General Requirements

  • Flexible schedule availability.
  • Ability to perform opening and closing procedures in the media laboratory.
  • Commitment to workplace safety for self and others.
  • Willingness to work as part of a collaborative, team-driven environment.

Schedule: Monday-Fridays, 8:00AM-5:00PM

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