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Research Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Research Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

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How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 Does a Research Assistant Do?

Research assistants gather and document information for their employer. As a research assistant, your responsibilities vary depending on the setting and field in which you work. Most research assistants work in academia, either in the science or humanities departments at a university, or for research institutes. Duties may include collecting data from the library and other sources, conducting surveys, and recruiting volunteers. In a laboratory setting, you may prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment, assist with experiments, and log readings and results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant academic background, often with a bachelor's or master's degree in the field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), literature databases, and sometimes laboratory equipment is typically required. Effective communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities help Research Assistants collaborate and manage complex tasks efficiently. These skills are crucial for producing accurate, reliable research results and supporting the project's overall success.

What are some common challenges Research Assistants face when balancing multiple projects, and how can they effectively manage their workload?

Research Assistants often juggle several projects simultaneously, which can lead to competing deadlines and shifting priorities. To manage these challenges, it's important to maintain clear communication with supervising researchers, use organizational tools such as project management software or detailed timelines, and regularly review progress with the team. Setting realistic expectations and proactively seeking clarification on priorities can also help ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Developing these time management and collaboration skills is crucial for success in a dynamic research environment.

What are research assistants?

Research assistants are individuals who support research projects by helping with data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and administrative tasks. They often work under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor in academic, scientific, or industry settings. Research assistants may also contribute to the preparation of reports, presentations, and publications. Their role is essential in ensuring that research projects are conducted efficiently and accurately.

What is the difference between Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectResearch AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in a related field; some roles require a master'sAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, or corporate R&D settingsLaboratories, hospitals, or industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Research Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their roles and qualifications. Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree and focus on supporting research projects, data analysis, and academic studies. Laboratory Technicians usually have an associate's degree or certification and perform routine lab tests and maintenance. Both roles work in laboratory environments but serve different functions within research and clinical settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Research jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,543 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Project Assistant II, MESA Summer Research Program

Project Assistant II, MESA Summer Research Program

San Bernardino Community College District

San Bernardino, CA

$17.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Project Assistant II, MESA Summer Research Program at San Bernardino Community College District Share on X Print Application Deadline 7/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Date Posted 2/2/2026 Contact Human Resources Info Number of Openings Not Specified Salary Single Rate 17.90 Per Hour Length of Work Year See Position Description Employment Type Full Time Job Description / Essential Elements: Print Project Assistant II, MESA Summer Research Program Salary: $17.90 Hourly Location: Yucaipa, CA Job Type: Department: STEM-MESA Job Number: 011512024 Closing: Continuous Job Description San Bernardino Community College District accepts applications for an hourly professional expert position for our San Bernardino Valley College on a continuous basis. However, this does not imply the department is actively recruiting for this position. If there is interest and/or need within the specific department, applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be contacted by respective department managers

Applications submitted will remain active for up to one (1) year. Should the department be interested in interviewing you, you will be contacted by the department with the information provided in your application. This posting is to establish a pool of qualified applicants for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Job Description: Under the regular supervision of a faculty or manager conducting the research project, the Student Research Assistant is responsible for assisting the faculty or manager in a variety of non-administrative tasks which may include preparing resources, equipment, materials for the research, documenting results, etc. in support of the research activities. Summary Description: The Principal Investigator (supervising faculty/manager) determines the research goals to assist in the preparation and achievement of the research project, which may include the following duties specific to the research objectives: Assist with research and collecting data through complex techniques and procedures, library research, or other project specific methodology.

Assist with the interpretation, synthesis, and analysis of data. Assist with scheduling, organizing, and reporting on status of research activities. Aid in planning and modifying research techniques, procedures, tests, equipment, or software management.

Assist with writing and editing materials for publication and/or presentation. Meet with faculty and/or manager on a regular basis to maintain ongoing communication regarding the quality of the assistant's performance. Participate in weekly professional development workshops.

Performs other related duties as required. Skills/Abilities: Ability to work independently, accurately, and to problem solve technical and methodological issues that arise during the research. Ability to learn new software and research techniques as needed.

Demonstrate knowledge and oral/written communication skills to discuss and document research progress. Ability to apply sound research techniques, methodology, and logical critical analysis. Strong organization and interpersonal skills.

Qualifications Minimum Requirements: Student must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 units in the Spring 2026 semester. Must be enrolled in the MESA program at time of application and for the duration of the research project. Must have declared a STEM major (biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, mathematics, physics) and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA Must complete a TB test at time of employment

General flexible hours not to exceed 20 hours per week. Main Locations: Crafton Hills College, Cal State University San Bernardino, and University of California Riverside. Physical Demands and Working Environment The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Environment: Work is performed primarily in a standard office setting. Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in an office setting; to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; to occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist; to occasionally lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight up to 25 pounds; to operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard; and to verbally communicate to exchange information.

Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction; vision sufficient to read computer screens and printed documents; and to operate assigned equipment. Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction. Employment Requirements The person selected for hire will be required to complete the following pre-employment requirements: Submit to and successfully pass DOJ live scan/fingerprinting.

Cost of live-scan services to be borne by candidate. Sealed official transcript(s) in envelope from institution or electronic copies emailed directly from institution (for positions with higher education requirement) Tuberculosis (TB) risk assessment Other pre-employment requirements may be required depending on the position (i.e. certifications or licenses; see job posting qualifications section for details)

Successful completion of all pre-employment requirements is mandatory to be eligible for employment. These requirements are in accordance with the San Bernardino Community College District's https://sbccd.edu/about-sbccd/board-of-trustees/policies-and-procedures/index.php. Employment Requirements: Please contact Krysten Audibert mailto:kaudibert@sbcced.edu or (909)389-3611 once you have applied

To apply, visit: https://apptrkr.com/6893394 The San Bernardino Community College District is an equal opportunity employer. The District encourages applications from underrepresented minorities and the disabled. Copyright 2025 Jobelephant.com Inc

All rights reserved. https://www.jobelephant.com/ Requirements / Qualifications For more information on Requirements/Qualifications, please contact the employer. Comments and Other Information For more information on Comments and Other Information, please contact the employer

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