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Molecular Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Scientist I

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Pleasanton CA, 94588 Duration: 12+ Months Department Summary The Molecular Lab Research & Early Development team is seeking motivated candidates focusing on developing molecular assays for infectious ...

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Molecular Lab information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do molecular lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for molecular lab in California is $22.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics between molecular lab professionals and other departments within a healthcare or research setting?

Molecular Lab professionals frequently collaborate with clinicians, pathologists, and bioinformaticians to ensure accurate testing, interpretation, and reporting of molecular diagnostic results. Effective communication is essential, as lab staff often discuss sample requirements, clarify testing protocols, and provide technical insights to support patient care or research goals. Regular meetings or interdisciplinary case discussions are common, fostering a team-oriented environment and continuous learning. This collaborative approach helps ensure high-quality outcomes and keeps professionals engaged with advances in both laboratory techniques and clinical applications.

What is the difference between Molecular Lab vs Microbiologist?

AspectMolecular LabMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's or Master's in Molecular Biology, Genetics, or related fields; certifications like ASCP may be preferredRequires a Bachelor's or higher in Microbiology, Biology, or related fields; certifications like ASCP are common
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting focused on genetic and molecular testing, often in healthcare or research institutionsLaboratory or field setting studying microorganisms, often in healthcare, environmental, or research labs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in hospitals, research labs, biotech companies for genetic testing and researchEmployed in healthcare, environmental agencies, food industry, and research for microorganism analysis

The main difference between a Molecular Lab professional and a Microbiologist lies in their focus areas. Molecular Lab specialists primarily work on genetic and molecular testing, while Microbiologists study microorganisms. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their work environments and industry applications differ slightly.

What is a molecular lab?

A Molecular Lab is a specialized laboratory where scientists and technicians analyze biological samples at the molecular level, typically focusing on DNA, RNA, and protein analysis. These labs use advanced techniques such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction), sequencing, and molecular diagnostics to detect diseases, study genetic material, and support research in medicine and biology. Molecular labs play a crucial role in diagnosing infections, identifying genetic disorders, and supporting scientific research. They are commonly found in hospitals, research institutions, and biotechnology companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a molecular lab technician?

To thrive as a Molecular Lab Technician, you need a solid background in molecular biology, laboratory techniques, and typically a degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field. Experience with PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA/RNA extraction, and familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for ensuring accuracy and reliability in results. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining high standards of data integrity, complying with protocols, and supporting scientific or clinical research objectives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Molecular Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Molecular Lab jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Molecular Lab job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,250 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Principal Scientist I, Molecular Lab Research and Early Development

Roche

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Roche rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Roche you can show up as yourself, embraced for the unique qualities you bring. Our culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where you are valued, accepted and respected for who you are, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. This is how we aim to prevent, stop and cure diseases and ensure everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Join Roche, where every voice matters.

The Position

At Roche, we are passionate about transforming patients' lives and are bold in both decision and action. We believe that good business means a better world. This is why we come to work each day, committed to scientific rigor, unassailable ethics, and ensuring access to medical innovations for all. We do this today to build a better tomorrow.

We are seeking a Principal Scientist I to join our Molecular Lab, Research and Early Development Team, Oncology and Genetics. Within the Roche Diagnostics organization, our Research and Early Development teams are committed to making a tangible impact on the future of healthcare. The Principal Scientist I brings technical depth and breadth, curiosity, and the creativity to be an important contributor in developing novel molecular diagnostic assays. The goal will be to build sequencing assays on our revolutionary Axelios Sequencing platform and translating the immense potential of our Sequencing by Expansion (SBX) technology into real-world assays that can benefit patients. This is a hands-on, lab-based role where scientific excellence and a proactive, results-oriented mindset are paramount. You will spearhead innovative projects and key collaborations, driving the science from the initial idea to a fully realized solution.

This is an opportunity for a visionary scientist to not only pioneer new workflows but to help shape the next generation of medical innovation.

The Opportunity

  • You will join a diverse local team of dedicated and curious scientists where you will role-model leadership qualities, mentor junior scientists, and champion a culture of scientific rigor and innovation.

  • You will prototype and optimize different sequencing assay workflows by aligning pharma project needs, designing and implementing rigorous experiments, and applying established and innovative procedures to enable end-to-end solutions; You will proactively highlight issues, troubleshoot assays, and resolve technical challenges by applying broad knowledge of molecular biology techniques and accumulated experience

  • You will work closely with the commercial team, external pharma partners, and internal bioinformatics colleagues to implement and analyze novel workflows to further pharma collaborations. You'll translate complex data into meaningful interpretations for internal and external stakeholders.

  • You will support the adoption of Axelios sequencing technology and the growth of the pharma service business by executing pilot collaboration projects, creating technical documentations including standard operating protocols, and supporting assay transfer to the CLIA laboratory.

  • You will identify and champion new technological opportunities, contributing to the strategic direction of the R&D organization.

This position is based on-site (4+ days) in Pleasanton, CA.
There is no relocation support.

Who You Are:
(Required)

  • You have a PhD in Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, (or a related field) with 5+ years of relevant industry experience

  • You have a deep understanding of molecular biology in NGS workflows beyond routine preparation of sequencing libraries.

  • You have demonstrated experience designing and optimizing novel NGS workflows.

  • You have demonstrated the ability to critically examine assay workflows and troubleshoot unknown and unfamiliar issues.

  • You have experience with diagnostic assay development, including a high level understanding of the regulatory framework for RUO, LDT, or IVD assays

  • You have demonstrated proficiency in interpreting standard bioinformatics pipeline outputs and sequencing metrics for genomic analysis.

  • You have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to identify areas of misalignment and collaborate effectively within and across teams.

  • You have excellent organizational skills, including the ability to efficiently evaluate, prioritize and handle multiple changing projects and priorities; you complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner

Preferred:

  • You have experience beyond standard library preparation from DNA or RNA, such as single-cell sequencing, protein detection by sequencing, or spatial sequencing.

  • You have experience working with different NGS instruments (e.g. Element, Ultima, Pacbio, Oxford)

  • You have experience with automating sequencing workflow on systems like the Hamilton or Tecan

  • You have a strong record of innovation, demonstrated by publications and patents.

  • You are proficient in technical writing

The expected salary range for this position is based on the primary location of Pleasanton, CA is $111,000 - $206,500. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance.

This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.
Benefits

#NMK62026DIA

Who we are

A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100'000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.


Let's build a healthier future, together.

Roche is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.


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