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Research Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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How much do research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab in California is $21.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What lab job pays the most?

In research labs, senior roles such as Principal Investigator or Laboratory Director typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities, and they often involve securing funding and managing research projects.

What is a research lab?

A research lab is a specialized facility where scientists, researchers, or students conduct experiments and investigations to advance knowledge in a particular field. Research labs can be found in universities, hospitals, private companies, or government institutions and are equipped with tools and equipment tailored to their focus area. These labs support a variety of activities, such as basic or applied research, testing, and product development, often following strict safety and ethical guidelines.

Is it hard to get into a research lab?

Getting into a research lab can be competitive and often requires relevant academic background, research experience, and strong skills in the field. Applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency with specific tools or methodologies and sometimes secure recommendations or internships to improve their chances.

What is the difference between Research Lab vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch LabResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically advanced degrees (Master's or PhD)Bachelor's or ongoing graduate studies
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, research facilitiesAssist in experiments, data collection in labs or field
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporate R&DUniversities, research projects, government agencies

Research Lab refers to a facility or organization conducting scientific research, often led by senior researchers. A Research Assistant is a role within a research lab, supporting experiments and data analysis. While both are involved in research activities, Research Lab is the environment or organization, whereas Research Assistant is a specific job position within that environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Research Lab position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Research Lab position, you need strong analytical skills, scientific knowledge in your field, and typically at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related discipline. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success. These abilities ensure accurate experimentation, meaningful results, and a safe, collaborative research environment.

How do I become a lab researcher?

To become a lab researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or physics is required, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or Ph.D. Additionally, gaining experience through internships, developing skills in laboratory techniques, and familiarity with scientific tools and data analysis are important steps in pursuing a career as a lab researcher.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a research lab environment?

Working in a research lab often involves navigating tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, and troubleshooting experimental setbacks. Collaboration is key, as you'll frequently work alongside other researchers, lab technicians, and sometimes students, which requires strong communication skills. Additionally, maintaining meticulous records and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of research findings. Overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding and can help foster valuable problem-solving and teamwork skills for your future career.

How much do lab researchers get paid?

Lab researchers' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced researchers or those with advanced degrees can earn over $80,000. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab jobs in California? For Research Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Research Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Research Lab job openings:
Research Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,215 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Research Lab Technician II

Keck Medicine of USC

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$24.50 - $26.55/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Keck Medicine of USC rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

343rd of 1,053 rated hospitals

Job description

The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Southern California (USC Norris) was founded in 1971 and has been continuously funded as an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center since 1973. USC Norris has a rich tradition of collaborative research and serves as a major regional and national resource for cancer research, prevention, treatment and education.

The Flow Cytometry and Immune Monitoring Core (FCIM) at the USC Norris is seeking a self-motivated Research Lab Technician II to support clinical and laboratory research efforts at the Cancer Center. The successful candidate should have: 1) at least 1 year hands-on experienced in basic or clinical research, particularly isolation of primary cells; 2) team-oriented research experience; and 3) excellent oral and written communication skills and work well with people.

Job Accountabilities

Under the supervision of the Technical Director, the Research Lab Technician II will provide routine and specific laboratory support for Immune Monitoring and Flow Cytometry services. The responsibilities include (but are not limited) to:

  • Learn new technologies quickly, such as blood processing and cell isolation.
  • Prepare, operate and maintain equipment.
  • Manage inventory of specimens.
  • Process and store human specimens (e.g. blood, solid tumors, urine and stool).
  • Order and maintain laboratory materials and supplies.
  • Prepare technical reports, papers and presentations.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Education: Bachelor's Degree in life science

Preferred Experience: at least 2 year hands-on research experience in basic or clinical research, particularly isolation and culturing human PBMC from blood samples.

Supervises - Nature of Work

Preferred Field of Expertise: blood processing and isolation of human primary cells

Special Instructions to Applicants

Complete the Workday application

The hourly rate range for this position is $24.50 - $26.55. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational consideration.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience
Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$150762.htmld

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