ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research And Development Assistant Jobs in California

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA

$135K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Your Role The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product ... date * Assist with the artwork development process to proof and ensure proper routing and ...

O Positiv

Research & Development Manager

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Your Role The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product ... date * Assist with the artwork development process to proof and ensure proper routing and ...

Citrotech

Research & Development Chemist

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Support product validation and scale-up from laboratory through commercial manufacturing * Assist ... R&D experience (advanced degrees may substitute for some experience) * Experience in a ...

REVOLVE

Fabric R&D Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The Fabric R&D Assistant will utilize his or her exceptional organizational skills to support the Fabric Research and Development team. He or she will comprehend the fabric development process and ...

REVOLVE

Fabric R&D Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Fabric R&D Assistant will utilize his or her exceptional organizational skills to support the Fabric Research and Development team. He or she will comprehend the fabric development process and ...

EMINENT, INC.

Fabric R&D Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

The Fabric R&D Assistant will utilize his or her exceptional organizational skills to support the Fabric Research and Development team. He or she will comprehend the fabric development process and ...

Hyf

Co-op - Research & Development

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Collaborate with technical team to plan, prepare, and perform experiments. * Assist with pilot ... Record, compile and analyze experimental data and present findings to the R&D team. * Assist with ...

REVOLVE

Product Development Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

... like R&D, Design, and Technical Design, to ensure the completion of garments is executed from ... The Product Development Assistant contributes to the development and production process by ...

Goodwin

Client Development Assistant (TECH)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... research team to support pitches, events, and client development activities. * Assist with maintaining organized files, templates, tools, and systems that support efficient and effective business ...

Apex

Financial Analyst (Research & Development)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... R&D leadership. * Planning cycles: Act as a key contributor to the company's planning cycles ... Reporting: Assist with monthly and quarterly reporting, including executive and management-level ...

Del Taco

R&D Chef

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$89K - $110K/yr

The test kitchen must be kept clean to company and county health department standards. * Assist R&D team with development and presentations. * Support the team to maintain our Research & Development ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch And Development JobsResearch And Development Assistant JobsResearch And Development Assistant Jobs in California

Research And Development Assistant information

See California salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do research and development assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for research and development assistant in California is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by research and development assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Research and Development Assistants often face challenges such as managing tight project deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing priorities, and handling large volumes of data or experimental results. Effective time management, strong organizational skills, and clear communication with team members can help address these challenges. Collaborating closely with scientists and engineers, regularly updating progress, and seeking feedback are also essential for ensuring projects stay on track and deliver quality results.

What is a research and development assistant?

Research and Development Assistants are professionals who support R&D teams in creating, testing, and improving products or processes. Their duties often include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They work in a variety of industries, such as pharmaceuticals, technology, and manufacturing, and play a vital role in ensuring that new ideas move from concept to reality efficiently and accurately. R&D Assistants help streamline research processes and support innovation within organizations.

What is the difference between Research And Development Assistant vs Research Technician?

AspectResearch And Development AssistantResearch Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant fieldUsually requires a bachelor's degree, sometimes an associate's
Work EnvironmentLabs, R&D departments, collaborative projectsLaboratories, testing facilities, experimental setups
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, biotech, pharmaceuticals, tech companiesResearch labs, manufacturing firms, scientific organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level research roles in R&DCompared for technical support roles in research settings

The Research And Development Assistant and Research Technician roles share similarities in educational background and work environment, often working together in labs within research-focused industries. However, R&D Assistants typically focus on supporting project development and coordination, while Research Technicians handle hands-on experimental work and data collection. Both roles are essential in advancing research projects, but they differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research and development assistant?

To thrive as a Research and Development Assistant, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant degree such as in chemistry, biology, or engineering. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and compliance with safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you excel in collaborative and fast-paced research environments. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, efficient project support, and contribute to successful innovation and product development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research And Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Research And Development jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Research And Development Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research And Development Assistant job openings:

Research And Development Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,814 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Research & Development Manager

O Positiv

Santa Monica, CA

$135K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Your Role

The Research & Development Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of product development for both new product initiatives and portfolio maintenance efforts that accelerate O Positiv's growth. You will be part of the creation of OP's rapidly growing product line and new offerings in women's health, wellness and more.

The ideal candidate is an individual with a strong scientific research background, a high level of organization among competing priorities, and a natural curiosity with a willingness to learn. The Research & Development Manager will report to the VP of Research & Development and will work cross functionally with internal and external stakeholders to support innovation and execution of O Positiv's product roadmap.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Bring innovative and differentiated products from concept to market that support our core customers' health goals and align with O Positiv's commitments / standards
  • Conduct ingredient research / literature reviews; identify novel ingredients and formats to explore / evaluate for product feasibility
  • Stay up to date to new trends in ingredients (vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc.) relevant to OP's product roadmap and concept designs
  • Substantiate claims by composing comprehensive summaries of clinical research that support product claims
  • Manage project coordination in tracking, expediting, and facilitating the progress of each product's development through the product's launch date
  • Assist with the artwork development process to proof and ensure proper routing and compliance to regulatory requirements
  • Provide scientific support on marketing campaigns, landing pages, and other customer-facing literature
  • Provide feedback on samples submissions and ensure formulations meet OP's specifications, are efficacious and fall within budget requirements
  • Support the reformulation of existing products to ensure products continue to be differentiated and meet marketing and customer expectations

Qualifications and Skills

  • Experience:
    • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience in Science (e.g. Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, etc.), Food Science, Pharmaceutical Science or related field
    • 4-8+ years of experience working in product development, R&D, and/or regulatory affairs within the functional foods, supplements, or skincare industry
    • Exceptional expertise in technical research including ingredient pathology, project management, and vendor relationship management
  •  Interpersonal:
    • Strong leadership & communication skills: listen, mentor, and teach by example
    • Thrives in fast-paced environments
    • Strong project management and prioritization skills
    • Ability to manage multiple moving pieces and lead different groups of individuals
    • Adaptable to new technology and innovations
    • Thoughtful and self-reflective, willingness to learn and adapt
    • Team-player, hard-working, organized, and goal-oriented
    • Excitement for startups and building from the ground up

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Hours and Compensation

The anticipated base compensation range for this role will be $135,000 - $160,000 annually. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and local market rates. 

  • Job Type: Full-time 
  • Pay based on prior experience
  • Position will be based out of Santa Monica, Los Angeles - in person (Mon-Thurs in office/Friday remote 

 Benefits & Perks

  • Flexible PTO, Sick Days, and Wellness Days
  • Monthly Social Hours
  • Medical, Vision, and Dental Coverage
  • 401K with matching
  • $50/month Fitness Reimbursement + Up to $1,800 in annual wellness benefits
  • An environment of collaboration, high performance, & respect amongst all employees and managers

Apply