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Pharma Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Payroll Specialist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Human Resources, Business Administration, or ... Safety Minded - follows and demonstrates awareness of Robinson Pharma's safety policies and ...

QA Associate III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$29.65 - $33.36/hr

... associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies ... Embodies PCI Pharma Services cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and ...

QA Associate III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$29.65 - $33.36/hr

... associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies ... Embodies PCI Pharma Services cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and ...

Senior Associate Manufacturing

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Master's degree OR Bachelor's degree and 6 months of experience in biotech/pharma manufacturing/laboratory or manufacturing support (i.e. laboratories, engineering, facilities, quality) OR Associate ...

... associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices. * Embodies PCI Pharma Services cultural values and aligns daily actions with department ...

Showing results 41-60

Pharma Associate information

What does a Pharma Associate do?

A Pharma Associate typically supports pharmaceutical operations, which may include working in research, development, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, or sales. Their responsibilities can involve assisting with clinical trials, ensuring compliance with regulations, preparing documentation, and collaborating with various teams to help bring pharmaceutical products to market. The specific duties of a Pharma Associate can vary depending on the department and company, but the role generally requires attention to detail and strong organizational skills. This position is often an entry-level step into the pharmaceutical industry, offering the opportunity to learn about drug development and regulatory processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pharma Associate?

To thrive as a Pharma Associate, you need a solid understanding of pharmaceutical products, regulatory compliance, and sales or customer service, often supported by a degree in pharmacy, life sciences, or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, pharmaceutical databases, and knowledge of industry regulations such as FDA or EMA guidelines are typically required. Strong communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills help you effectively engage clients and manage multiple tasks. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate information delivery, regulatory adherence, and successful client partnerships in a competitive industry.

What degree do I need for pharmaceutical associate jobs?

Pharmaceutical associate jobs typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent; however, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in pharmacy, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant certifications or training in pharmaceutical procedures and good manufacturing practices can also be beneficial.

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

The most popular types of Pharma jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Pharma Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Pharma Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Pharma Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Payroll Specialist

Robinson Pharma, Inc

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Payroll Specialist to manage and process payroll operations using ADP Workforce Now. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing, maintaining employee payroll records, and supporting HR/payroll compliance efforts. The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of payroll best practices, ADP Workforce Now, and applicable federal and state regulations. ADP Workforce Now experience is a plus!

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Manage all employee data in ADP Workforce Now. Ensure date is complete and current. Utilize all ADP workforce now functionality.
  • Process biweekly payroll for 900+ employees using ADP Workforce Now.
  • Maintain employee payroll records, including new hires, terminations, wage adjustments, and benefit deductions.
  • Review and validate payroll reports prior to final submission to ensure accuracy.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll, wage, and hour laws and best practices.
  • Handle payroll discrepancies and resolve employee inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
  • Manage direct deposit setup, garnishments, tax withholdings, and benefit deductions.
  • Collaborate with HR and Finance departments on payroll-related activities, including audits and reporting.
  • Generate and distribute reports for internal management and external auditors.
  • Assist with year-end processes, including W-2s and other required filings.
  • Stay updated with ADP system updates and payroll regulation changes.
  • Maintain ADP workforce now as our data and record resource platform.

Education & Certifications: 

  • Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
  • Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) is a plus.
  • Honesty/Integrity - follow through with company values and provide exceptional quality products.
  • Safety Minded - follows and demonstrates awareness of Robinson Pharma’s safety policies and procedures of self and others.
  • Teamwork/Cooperation - ability to work well with others in a group and cooperate with others.
  • Values Diversity and Ethics - serves with integrity and respect in interacting with different ethnic backgrounds, cultures, languages, and values those differences.


Qualifications: 

  • 2–5 years of payroll experience, with hands-on use of ADP Workforce Now is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of payroll processing, labor laws, and tax regulations.
  • Experience with multi-state payroll preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and payroll reporting.
  • Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to handle confidential information.
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

Working Conditions:

  • This is an office-based position. Flex or remote work schedule not available.
  • May require extended hours during peak payroll periods or year-end processing.
What We Offer:
  • Competitive Wages, starting at $28.00 - $34.00/hour, depending on experience. 
  • Medical & Dental (company pays 75% of employees' HMO plans)
  • Discounted Vision
  • 401k - company will match up to 3% of annual salary
  • Paid Holidays
  • Vacation Days
  • Sick Days

Our Human Resources Team will contact applicants who meet the selection criteria and best match the qualifications for an open position, either by phone or email.

If your skills and experience align with our current hiring needs, we will contact you regarding the next steps in the recruitment process.

PLEASE NOTE: Only applicants selected to move forward in the recruitment process will be contacted.
Robinson Pharma is committed to providing equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable laws. This commitment applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, and other terms and conditions of employment. Robinson Pharma also takes affirmative action to support the employment and advancement of minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans.

Robinson Pharma, Inc. may conduct a background check through a third-party vendor as part of the hiring process. Following acceptance of an employment offer, candidates may be required to complete and submit authorization, consent, and release forms for the background investigation. Employment with Robinson Pharma is at-will and may be terminated at any time, with or without cause or notice, by either the employee or the Company, subject to applicable law.