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Paid Research Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Paid sick/vacation/holiday * 401k/Company Funded Pension Program (program is dependent upon ... met. * Assist with the laboratory's lean and housekeeping activities Education * BS Degree in ...

... processes and assist with transferring processes into Manufacturing. You will gain hands-on ... In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local ...

An advanced individual may assist with/conduct more complicated studies, as well as contribute to ... Paid Maternity Leave, Flexible Spending Accounts, voluntary Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital ...

An advanced individual may assist with/conduct more complicated studies, as well as contribute to ... Paid Maternity Leave, Flexible Spending Accounts, voluntary Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital ...

Research Associate

Tustin, CA · On-site

$31 - $38/hr

Document method development and validation activities according to current practices * Assist in ... In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local ...

Showing results 21-40

Paid Research Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$8

$22

$33

How much do paid research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for paid research assistant in Riverside, CA is $22.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paid research assistant?

Paid Research Assistants are individuals, often students or early-career professionals, who are hired by universities, research institutions, or private organizations to support academic or scientific research projects. Their duties may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, performing literature reviews, and assisting with the preparation of reports and publications. Paid Research Assistants typically work under the supervision of a lead researcher or principal investigator and receive hourly wages or a stipend for their work. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in research methodologies and can be a stepping stone to advanced study or careers in research and academia.

What does a paid research assistant do?

As a Paid Research Assistant, your daily tasks often include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing research materials, and assisting with experiments or surveys. You may also help with administrative duties such as scheduling, organizing files, and maintaining research databases. Collaboration is key in this role, as you'll regularly communicate with principal investigators, graduate students, and other team members to ensure research objectives are met efficiently. This position provides hands-on experience in research methodologies and offers valuable opportunities to develop skills that are beneficial for future academic or professional pursuits.

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

To thrive as a Paid Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in the relevant academic field, often supported by a bachelor's degree or equivalent coursework. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), literature databases, and sometimes IRB protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively and manage multiple research tasks. These abilities ensure accurate data collection, reliable research outcomes, and efficient support for lead researchers.

What is the difference between Paid Research Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectPaid Research AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree or current student statusOften requires a master's degree or higher in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, academic, or field research settingsResearch labs, universities, or industry research teams
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, government agenciesAcademic institutions, private companies, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles and responsibilitiesExploring advanced research roles and career progression

Paid Research Assistants typically support research projects at an entry level, often requiring a bachelor's degree or current student status. Research Associates usually hold higher qualifications like a master's degree and are involved in more independent research tasks. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but Research Associates generally have more experience and responsibilities.

Are research assistant positions paid?

Research assistant positions are typically paid roles that offer hourly wages or stipends, especially in academic or research settings. Compensation varies depending on the institution, project funding, and level of experience, and some positions may also provide academic credit or stipends for graduate students.

Do paid research assistants get paid a lot?

Paid research assistants typically earn hourly wages that vary depending on the field, experience, and location, with many positions paying between minimum wage and $20 per hour. Higher salaries are often associated with advanced skills, specialized knowledge, or working in competitive research environments. Overall, research assistant pay is generally considered moderate and not usually classified as high-paying compared to other professional roles.

How much does a paid research assistant get paid?

Paid research assistants typically earn between $12 and $25 per hour, depending on their experience, education level, and the complexity of the research tasks. Some positions may offer stipends or fixed project-based payments, especially in academic or nonprofit settings.

How to become a paid research assistant?

To become a paid research assistant, typically you need to have relevant academic background or skills in the research area, such as a degree or coursework in the field. Applying for positions through university departments, research institutions, or online job boards is common, and strong organizational and communication skills are often required. Some roles may also require familiarity with research tools or data analysis software.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paid Research jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Paid Research jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Paid Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Paid Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Paid Research Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,543 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


CalPortland rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary

The Research Chemist will independently execute laboratory testing and research activities using chemical, physical, and advanced instrumental techniques to support the analysis and characterization of cementitious materials. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate data generation, interpretation, and reporting in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, ACI, and other applicable standards, while supporting Technical Services, Operations, Quarry and R&D initiatives, maintaining laboratory safety and quality systems, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver results from sample intake through project completion. 

Benefits

CalPortland is proud to offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits package that provides health and financial support to our most important resources: our employees. Your benefits are an important part of your overall compensation at CalPortland. That’s why we give you a wide range of benefits to choose from. 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
    • low-cost premiums even for family coverage
  • Company-paid life/AD&D insurance
  • Company-paid short-term disability
  • Paid sick/vacation/holiday
  • 401k/Company Funded Pension Program (program is dependent upon location and job type)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Additional voluntary benefits 
Compensation

$70,000 - 80,000

Responsibilities
  • Provide laboratory support for ongoing projects focused on the chemical analysis and characterization of cementitious materials. These efforts support multiple departments, including Technical Services, Operations, Quarry, and Research & Development.
  • Maintain laboratory safety at its highest standard. This includes but is not limited to; assessing the risks of any tasks before starting, only performing authorized tasks, utilizing proper PPE, and ensuring the company’s guidelines and policies are adhered to.
  • Conducts laboratory equipment troubleshooting, maintenance, and calibrations to meet or exceed all internal and external quality standards.
  • Prepare related documentation and reports by monitoring, analyzing and collecting data, i.e., XRF, XRD, Calorimetry reports, etc.
  • Conduct testing as per applicable (ASTM, AASHTO, ACI, EPA, etc.) test methods.
  • Evaluate laboratory needs; equipment, testing, and quality requirements to ensure accurate analytical testing as required for projects.
  • Support the Laboratory Manager and Project Coordinator in daily Central Laboratory operations, while assisting other work areas to ensure project deadlines are met.
  • Assist with the laboratory’s lean and housekeeping activities
Education
  • BS Degree in Chemistry, Geology, Material Science; or Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field, with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience
  • Other degrees may be acceptable depending on work experience
Requirements/Qualifications
  • In-depth knowledge and expertise of cement and concrete materials with respect to current ASTM, AASHTO, and ACI standards.
  • Strong hands-on experience with testing methods and analytical techniques for cementitious materials, such as XRF, XRD, LOI, Blaine fineness, density, insoluble residue, free lime, ICP, isothermal calorimetry, and related procedures. Minimum 5 years of successful laboratory work
  • Must have strong math, physics, and analytical understanding.
  • Strong written and verbal communications skills
  • Well-versed in Microsoft Office applications (i.e., Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Planner)
  • Strong understanding of ASTM and ACI specifications
  • Interpersonal skills to facilitate working relationships with all levels of management and staff
Conditions of Employment

Successful candidate must submit to a post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check. Some positions require Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration/clearance as well as ongoing alcohol and drug testing. In accordance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for work that will be performed in the San Francisco area, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment.


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