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Research Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Research Lab Tech II

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$24.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

The University of Southern California is seeking a dynamic and skilled Research Lab Technician II to join our cutting-edge research team. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of scientific ...

Research Lab Tech II

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$24.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

The University of Southern California is seeking a dynamic and skilled Research Lab Technician II to join our cutting-edge research team. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of scientific ...

SID.ai is a research lab focused on search, training models that can retrieve and reason over any data source. They are seeking a Research Engineer to train models, design RL training environments ...

Goodfire is an AI research lab using interpretability to turn AI into something that can be understood, debugged, and shaped like software Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in San ...

Research Associate

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Merge Labs is a frontier research lab with the mission of bridging biological and artificial intelligence to maximize human ability, agency and experience. We're pursuing this goal by ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Lab information

See California salary details

$8

$21

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How much do research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 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.

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.

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.

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 cities in California are hiring for Research Lab jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,215 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Research Lab Tech II

USC Gould School of Law

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Type: Grant-Funded, Fixed-Term for 12 Months

Join the Team at USC: Where Innovation Meets Excellence

Are you passionate about research and looking to make a significant impact in the scientific community? The University of Southern California is seeking a dynamic and skilled Research Lab Technician II to join our cutting-edge research team. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of scientific discovery, providing essential laboratory support and contributing to groundbreaking research projects.

About USC Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology (CCMB): CCMB is a research laboratory located on the Health Sciences Campus of the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. Part of the Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, CCMB is funded through numerous federal and organization-sponsored research grants. Many of these grants are from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, supporting basic research into the developmental, biochemical, and molecular biological aspects of human development, with a special emphasis on craniofacial structures in both health and disease. Working together, we are advancing oral, dental, and craniofacial research to solve problems in health and promote the well-being of society.

Why You'll Love Working Here:

Innovative Environment: Work in a state-of-the-art lab that fosters creativity and innovation.

Professional Growth: Access to ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

Collaborative Culture: Join a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to excellence and collaboration.

Impactful Work: Contribute to research that makes a difference in the world.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct and support research experiments in compliance with established laboratory and safety protocols.

Collect and analyze data from a variety of research procedures, tests, and techniques.

Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy.

Prepare chemical solutions for experimental use and handle materials according to safety guidelines.

Organize laboratory supplies and manage inventory to support continuous research activities.

Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments and procedures.

Assist in the planning and design of experiments through comprehensive library research.

Uphold the security and safety of the research facility and its contents.

Who We're Looking For:

Education: Minimum of an Associate's Degree or specialized/technical training. A Bachelor's Degree in a related field is preferred and can substitute for experience requirements.

Experience: At least 2 years of relevant experience with laboratory equipment and research protocols.

Skills: Proficiency in general laboratory techniques, data analysis, and equipment maintenance.

Attributes: Detail-oriented, proactive, and able to work independently with minimal supervision.

Additional Perks:

Supervisory Opportunities: Potential to oversee student, temporary, and/or casual workers.

Equal Opportunity: We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Discover the power of your USC employment with our comprehensive benefits and perks package! At USC, we prioritize the well-being of our faculty and staff, offering a diverse range of benefits designed to protect your health, wealth, and future. From robust healthcare coverage to retirement planning resources, our benefits are an essential part of your total rewards package. Explore the full spectrum of benefits and perks available to you at USC Benefits and Perks(opens in new window) and unlock the true value of your USC employment today!

Join USC, Where Your Work Inspires Change

Equal Opportunity Employer: The University of Southern California 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, disability, or veteran status.

The hourly rate for this position is $24.25. 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 considerations.

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 the Background Screening Policy Appendix D(opens in new window)for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

Minimum Education: Associate's degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 2 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols. Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.

Minimum Education: Associate's degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 2 years
Minimum Field of Expertise: Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols. Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.

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.

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https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$148114.htmld