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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in San Rafael, CA (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a Research Assistant to help design, run, and analyze experiments at the ... Have experience running experiments, lab studies, field studies, data collection workflows, or ...

... of lab operations, this role partners closely with Engineering, Research, Facilities, Safety ... efforts. * Assist with shipping, receiving, material handling, and other logistics-related ...

Research Clinician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$89.41 - $98.58/hr

You will also aid in the supervision of research associate staff, process lab samples, dispense ... Days full of participant care are rare, allowing ample time to assist with other elements of the ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Lab Assistant information

See San Rafael, CA salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in San Rafael, CA is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research lab assistant do?

A Research Lab Assistant supports scientists and researchers by preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring the lab is clean and organized. They may also be responsible for documenting results, ordering supplies, and following safety protocols. Their role is essential for the smooth functioning of research projects and helps advance scientific studies efficiently.

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

Research Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining accuracy in data collection, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on lab work can be demanding, especially during busy project phases. Effective time management, clear communication with the research team, and organization skills are essential to successfully navigate these challenges. Proactively seeking clarification and regular training on lab procedures can also help minimize errors and improve efficiency.

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

To thrive as a Research Lab Assistant, you need a background in laboratory sciences, attention to detail, and knowledge of standard lab procedures, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and data management systems such as LIMS is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively set standout candidates apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining laboratory safety, and supporting research productivity.

What is the difference between Research Lab Assistant vs Research Technician?

AspectResearch Lab AssistantResearch Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationAssociate's degree or specialized training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, assisting with experimentsLaboratory, often more hands-on with equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsResearch institutions, healthcare, biotech companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research rolesClarifying technical support roles in labs

The main difference between a Research Lab Assistant and a Research Technician lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Research Lab Assistants typically support experiments and perform basic lab tasks, often requiring an associate's degree. Research Technicians usually have more technical duties, including operating equipment and data collection, often with similar or additional certifications. Both roles are vital in research environments, but the Research Technician generally has more technical responsibilities.

How much is a research lab assistant paid?

Research lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, education, and the location of the lab. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, often working part-time or full-time schedules in academic or research institutions.

How to become a research lab assistant?

To become a research lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring postsecondary education in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering can also improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in San Rafael, CA?

The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in San Rafael, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in San Rafael, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in San Rafael, CA are:

What cities near San Rafael, CA are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near San Rafael, CA with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in San Rafael, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,944 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Lab Automation Support Technician

Labcorp

San Francisco, CA

$30.60 - $40.32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Labcorp rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 1,160 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description


Labcorp is a global leader in laboratory services, providing the insights and answers that help healthcare providers, patients, researchers, pharmaceutical companies and health systems make confident decisions and improve outcomes. Through our unparalleled science, data, technology and laboratory network, we advance diagnostics, accelerate innovation and help address some of the world’s most important health challenges. As we shape the future of healthcare, we are leveraging advanced technologies, intelligent digital solutions and data-driven innovation across our operations to enhance how work gets done and deliver greater value to customers and patients. With our global scale and deep expertise, you’ll have the opportunity to do meaningful work, grow your career and make a real impact on people’s health around the world. Together, we’re improving health and improving lives.


Labcorp is seeking a Lab Automation Support Technician to join its Invitae Genetics Production Support Engineering team in San Francisco, CA.    

Work Schedule:  Tuesday - Saturday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm Pacific Time. Training will be 1st shift, Monday - Friday 9am - 5:30pm for the first 3 months.

Address: 1400 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103

Job Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for the general health of instrumentation at Invitae through instrument calibration, installation, testing, and maintenance

  • Act as the key point of contact between the equipment vendors and the Invitae clinical laboratory

  • Carry out preventive maintenance tasks and performance testing on production instruments

  • Troubleshoot and repair ancillary laboratory instruments (ex: sequencers, genetic analyzers, spectrophotometers, thermal cyclers), triage emergent errors and escalate issues to subject matter experts as needed

  • Support lab staff by responding to work requests and offering assistance promptly

  • Support commissioning, validating (IQ/OQ/PQ) and testing of new instrumentation

  • Document all repairs, maintenance activities and equipment qualifications

  • Maintain an inventory of equipment, tools and supplies

  • Complete and maintain technical documentation

  • Monitor and maintain cold storage for the site

  • Coordinate with vendors to schedule PMs, request support, and request quotes for instrumentation, parts and service

  • Train new team members and ensure their competency. May coach and mentor junior or new team members, offering guidance to team members who are developing skills

  • Create and revise SOPs and training resources

Minimum Qualifications:  

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering or related field

  • 1 or more years of experience in a high complexity lab environment as an operator, lab technician, lab assistant, accessioner, or lab equipment support role

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 1 or more years experience working in a high sample volume FDA, ISO 13485/15189, GMP, GLP and/or CAP/CLIA certified laboratory

  • 1 or more years experience working in a clinical genetics laboratory

  • 1 or more years experience in providing equipment support and communicating with vendors

  • 1 or more years experience with NGS (next generation sequencing) technologies

Additional Job Standards:

  • Troubleshooting skills, quality mindset, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

  • Strong organizational skills, as well as written and verbal communication skills

  • Desire to learn and support special improvement projects

  • A customer service attitude and a personality that allows you to derive personal satisfaction from helping others

  • Ability to work full-time schedule, with the flexibility to support the lab on either an early or evening shift, that may take place on weekends

  • Cross-functional collaboration with automation and assay development teams as well as quality and production 

  • Equipment operation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting 

  • Ability to work under pressure, especially with time and resource constraints 

  • Ability to communicate using technical language and develop a technical vocabulary 

  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds

  • Some travel for those who require vendor training (Reno, Boston, Bay Area)

**Pay Range: $30.60-$40.32/hour

All job offers will be based on a candidate’s skills and prior relevant experience, applicable degrees/certifications, as well as internal equity and market data. 

Benefits: Employees regularly scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week are eligible for comprehensive benefits including: Medical,  Dental, Vision, Life, STD/LTD, 401(k), Paid Time Off (PTO) or Flexible Time Off (FTO), Tuition Reimbursement and Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Employees regularly scheduled to work less than 20 hours, Casual, Intern, and Temporary employees are only eligible to participate in the 401(k) Plan. Employees who are regularly scheduled to work a 7 on/7 off schedule are eligible to receive all the foregoing benefits except PTO or FTO. For more detailed information, please  click here.  


Labcorp is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer:

Labcorp strives for inclusion and belonging in the workforce and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind. We make employment decisions based on the needs of our business and the qualifications and merit of the individual. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), family or parental status, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, personal appearance, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic. Additionally, all qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable law. 


We encourage all to apply

If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance using our online tools to search and apply for jobs, or needs an accommodation, please visit our accessibility site or contact us at Labcorp Accessibility. For more information about how we collect and store your personal data, please see our Privacy Statement.



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