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Research Project Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities * Assist faculty researchers with data collection, organization, and management ... Maintain accurate research records, documentation, and project files. * Participate in research ...

New

Research Assistant

Loma Linda, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

The Research Assistant supports the execution of certain aspects of a research project after the research design is established with minimal supervision. Performs other duties as needed. The ideal ...

Research Assistant

Loma Linda, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

The Research Assistant supports the execution of certain aspects of a research project after the research design is established with minimal supervision. Performs other duties as needed. The ideal ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Project Assistant information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do research project assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for research project assistant in California is $21.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research project assistant do?

A Research Project Assistant supports the planning, coordination, and execution of research projects. Their responsibilities typically include managing project documentation, scheduling meetings, assisting with data collection and analysis, and ensuring compliance with research protocols. They work closely with project managers and researchers to help keep projects on track and meet deadlines. This role often requires strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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

To thrive as a Research Project Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience with data collection and analysis, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research software, spreadsheets, databases, and sometimes IRB protocols or compliance certification is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and teamwork abilities set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring research accuracy, meeting project deadlines, and supporting effective collaboration within research teams.

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

Research Project Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple tasks simultaneously, managing tight deadlines, and ensuring accurate data collection and documentation. To manage these effectively, it's important to prioritize tasks, communicate clearly with supervisors and team members, and be proactive in addressing any issues as they arise. Utilizing organizational tools and maintaining detailed records can also help streamline workflow and minimize errors, making the research process more efficient.

What is the difference between Research Project Assistant vs Research Coordinator?

AspectResearch Project AssistantResearch Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a related fieldOften requires a bachelor's or master's degree, with some roles preferring additional certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, research sites, or academic settingsResearch institutions, universities, or healthcare organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in academic, healthcare, and government research projectsCommon in managing research projects, overseeing teams, and coordinating activities
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by those starting in research roles or assisting in studiesCompared for roles involving project management and oversight

The main difference is that a Research Project Assistant typically supports research activities by performing specific tasks, while a Research Coordinator manages and oversees entire research projects, including planning, coordination, and compliance.

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

The most popular types of Research Project jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Project Assistant jobs in California?

For Research Project Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Research Project Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research Project Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Project Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,227 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Research Lab Assistant

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link
https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/40925
Job Number
SE233624
Position Information
Department or Unit Name
Environmental Science & Policy
Position Headcount
1
Position Title
Research Lab Assistant
Academic Year
Fall 2026
Term or Semester
Fall
Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student?
Undergrad
Anticipated Pay Range
$17.00 - $17.00
Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done?
Orange
Approved Supervisor
Richelle Tanner
Supervisor Email
rtanner@chapman.edu
Scheduling
Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)
Desired Start Date
09/07/2026
Projected End Date
12/01/2026
Average number of hours per week
Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Research Lab Assistant supports an ongoing Environmental Science & Policy research project examining professional networks, scientific collaboration, and community culture within the biological sciences. Student researchers will gain hands-on experience with data collection, social network analysis, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) applications, and scientific research methodologies.
This position offers opportunities to collaborate with faculty researchers and partner organizations, contribute to conference and publication efforts, and develop valuable research, analytical, and professional skills applicable to graduate study and scientific careers. Students may also have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers and professional organizations from partner institutions, participate in collaborative meetings, and contribute to scholarly presentations and peer-reviewed publications. This position is for 10-15 hours per week.
Responsibilities
  • Assist faculty researchers with data collection, organization, and management for ongoing research projects.
  • Apply and evaluate generative AI (GenAI) tools to support research, data processing, and analytical tasks.
  • Conduct literature reviews and summarize scientific publications relevant to project objectives.
  • Assist with coding, categorizing, and analyzing data related to professional networks and scientific communities.
  • Support social network analysis activities and interpretation of research findings.
  • Maintain accurate research records, documentation, and project files.
  • Participate in research meetings and collaborative discussions with faculty, research partners, and fellow student researchers.
  • Assist with preparing presentations, reports, conference materials, and scholarly publications.
  • Contribute to research dissemination efforts, including conference presentations and peer-reviewed manuscripts when appropriate.
  • Collaborate professionally with faculty and external partners from participating institutions and organizations.
  • Perform other research-related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Assist faculty researchers with data collection, organization, and management for ongoing research projects.
  • Apply and evaluate generative AI (GenAI) tools to support research, data processing, and analytical tasks.
  • Conduct literature reviews and summarize scientific publications relevant to project objectives.
  • Assist with coding, categorizing, and analyzing data related to professional networks and scientific communities.
  • Support social network analysis activities and interpretation of research findings.
  • Maintain accurate research records, documentation, and project files.
  • Participate in research meetings and collaborative discussions with faculty, research partners, and fellow student researchers.
  • Assist with preparing presentations, reports, conference materials, and scholarly publications.
  • Perform other research-related duties as assigned.

Desired Qualifications
  • Coursework in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
  • Interest in artificial intelligence, social network analysis, data analytics, or scientific research.
  • Experience working with research projects, datasets, or data management.
  • Interest in scientific communication, publishing, and conference presentations.
  • Desire to pursue graduate education, research, conservation, environmental policy, or related scientific careers.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required?
With or Without FWS

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