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Pharma Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NeoGenomics

Global Specimen Specialist I

Aliso Viejo, CA ยท On-site

$17 - $19.25/hr

Maintains or assists with inventory for the department, Pharma lab, and general office areas. * Receives incoming supplies and stores materials appropriately to maintain accurate inventory levels.

Spyglass Pharma

Sr. Engineer, R&D

Aliso Viejo, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

At SpyGlass Pharma (NASDAQ: SGP), we are focused on improving and preserving the vision of patients ... Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks), data analysis tools, and standard lab ...

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Pharma Lab information

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

To thrive as a Pharma Lab Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, and laboratory procedures, usually supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with analytical instruments (such as HPLC and GC), laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and adherence to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) guidelines is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities ensure accurate testing, regulatory compliance, and the safe, efficient development of pharmaceutical products.

What is the difference between Pharma Lab vs Pharmaceutical Technician?

AspectPharma LabPharmaceutical Technician
Required CredentialsScience degree or relevant certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, or certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesManufacturing plants, production lines
Industry UsageResearch, quality control, developmentProduction, packaging, quality assurance

Pharma Lab professionals focus on research, testing, and quality control within laboratories, often requiring scientific degrees. Pharmaceutical Technicians typically work in manufacturing settings, handling production and assembly tasks with technical certifications. While both roles are essential in the pharmaceutical industry, Pharma Lab roles emphasize analysis and development, whereas Pharmaceutical Technicians focus on production processes.

What is a Pharma Lab?

A Pharma Lab, or pharmaceutical laboratory, is a specialized facility where scientists and technicians conduct research, development, and testing of drugs and medications. These labs play a critical role in discovering new pharmaceuticals, ensuring drug safety and efficacy, and complying with regulatory standards. Pharma Labs are equipped with advanced technology and follow strict protocols to guarantee accurate results and product quality. They may be part of pharmaceutical companies, universities, or government agencies and are essential in the process of bringing new medications to market.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a pharmaceutical laboratory, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in pharmaceutical laboratories often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict regulatory compliance, accurately documenting experimental data, and meeting tight project deadlines. Balancing multiple research projects while adhering to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and safety protocols can be demanding. Effective time management, clear communication within the team, and staying updated on industry regulations are key strategies for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring smooth lab operations.

How to become a pharmaceutical lab technician?

To become a pharmaceutical lab technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring an associate degree in a related field such as chemistry, biology, or pharmacy technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and understanding of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). Certification or training in pharmaceutical procedures can enhance job prospects.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

In a pharmaceutical lab, senior roles such as Laboratory Director, Principal Scientist, or Quality Assurance Manager tend to be the highest paying positions. These roles require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and often certification, and they oversee laboratory operations, research, or compliance, commanding higher salaries than entry-level positions.

What is the highest paying job in pharma?

In the pharmaceutical industry, senior executive roles such as Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) or Vice President of Research and Development typically have the highest salaries. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they often oversee large teams and strategic decision-making.

What pharmaceutical jobs pay well?

In the pharmaceutical industry, roles such as pharmaceutical sales managers, regulatory affairs directors, and senior research scientists tend to offer the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and experience in areas like drug development, compliance, or sales strategy.
What are popular job titles related to Pharma Lab jobs in California? For Pharma Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pharma Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pharma Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pharma Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Pharma Lab job openings:
Pharma Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pharma Lab job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Contract Pharma Lab Operations Coordinator

Contract Pharma Lab Operations Coordinator

Cogent Scientific

South San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Cogent Scientific, an insourced contract research organization, is looking for the right people to accomplish our Mission: to support the life sciences industry by cultivating and empowering exceptional scientists to deliver specialized laboratory services that advance research, foster collaboration, and accelerate innovation through quality and a shared commitment to excellence. We can offer you the chance to build on your skills and knowledge while working among experts in their fields and with cutting-edge instrumentation.

Cogent Scientific offers competitive pay, attractive benefits (such as medical/dental/vision insurance; 401(k); parental leave; PTO and paid holidays; etc.) and an exciting work environment. This position may include relocation benefits as well. We aim to recruit the best people who stand out among their peers and embody our Core Values:

  • Client Focused: We only succeed when our clients succeed.
  • Outstanding: We deliver meticulous results through outstanding performance.
  • Good: We act ethically and morally.
  • Employee-Centric: We honor and support our employees.
  • Nimble: We are prepared to adapt in an ever-changing industry.
  • Team-Oriented: We collaborate with each other and with our clients.

We currently have a role available for a Contract Pharma Lab Operations Coordinator. This role would last approx. 12 months (no guarantee of length). Providing successful completion of assignment, employee would be considered for other roles with Cogent Scientific at the South San Francisco location.

Job duties include, but are not limited to, the following:


  • Performing daily lab operations tasks as directed by the lab operations manager, including maintaining organization across lab spaces, common areas, and storage rooms.
  • Handling receiving, unpacking, and stocking of consumables and supplies for lab storage, tissue culture rooms, media fridges, and freezer reagents.
  • Monitoring and tracking inventory of chemicals, buffers, consumables, and general supplies; flag restocking needs proactively.
  • Supporting equipment preventative maintenance scheduling and vendor coordination.
  • Conducting routine lab tasks including biohazard waste disposal, hazardous waste disposal, buffer refills, glassware washing, and autoclave operations.
  • Performing regular lab walkthroughs to assess general lab condition; escalate issues to appropriate contacts.
  • Assisting with the physical coordination and execution of laboratory moves, including packing, labeling, transporting, and unpacking equipment, supplies, and materials.
  • Supporting the decommissioning and recommissioning of lab spaces, including equipment staging and placement per approved floor plan layouts.
  • Coordinating with facilities contacts and external vendors to facilitate equipment installation and infrastructure readiness.

Job requirements include, but are not limited to:


  • AS degree in chemistry, biology or related science and/or equivalent college coursework in the sciences.
    • New BS graduates will also be considered.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Excel, Word); comfort with basic digital tools and systems.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. regularly and occasionally assist with moving heavier lab equipment with appropriate support.
  • Excellent communication skills - verbal and written.
  • Works well both as a team and as an individual.
  • Demonstration of excellent team player skills, very strong attention to detail, very strong problem-solving skills, a high level of learning agility, and the ability to work across functions. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic and self-motivated, with the leadership and communication skills necessary to operate effectively in a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment with flexibility and an adaptable approach to goal delivery.

This is a day shift position (approx. 8a-5p local time).

Cogent Scientific provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate based on any legally protected characteristic.

Additionally, if you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know.

This job posting will close by 8/3/2026 or when a candidate is identified, whichever comes first.

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