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Sample Preparation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

P2 Sample Preparation Technician

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

About the role Within the Sample Preparation Department, the Sample Preparation Technician (P2) will work with client samples and prepare them for analysis in our labs. Responsibilities * Ringing ...

P2 Sample Preparation Technician

Tucson, AZ

$18 - $23.75/hr

About the role Within the Sample Preparation Department, the Sample Preparation Technician (P2) will work with client samples and prepare them for analysis in our labs. Responsibilities * Ringing ...

P4 Sample Preparation Lead Hand

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$42K - $54K/yr

The Sample Preparation Technician (P4) is responsible for supervision of the Sample Preparation floor while on shift. The priority for this position will be to ensure that the department runs ...

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big. When you join us, you'll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. P4 Working at ...

Sample Preparation Technician (General Laborer)

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Sample Preparation Technician is responsible for proper preparation of mineral samples for analysis in accordance with all applicable standards and company procedures by performing the following ...

Sample Preparer

Kershaw, SC

$10.75 - $15/hr

Strong practical problem-solving skills with sound mechanical aptitude relevant to sample preparation equipment. Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team to support operational and production ...

Sample Preparer

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$10.75 - $15/hr

The completion of at least year 10 or equivalent 3.2 Knowledge & Experience • Demonstrated commitment to workplace health and safety • Previous experience in sample preparation desirable. 3.3 ...

Sample Preparer

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Strong practical problem-solving skills with sound mechanical aptitude relevant to sample preparation equipment. Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team to support operational and production ...

Showing results 21-40

Sample Preparation information

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How much do sample preparation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for sample preparation in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sample preparation?

Sample preparation is the process of treating and handling samples before they are analyzed in a laboratory setting. This step is crucial because it ensures that the sample is suitable for analysis, removing contaminants or interfering substances and sometimes concentrating the analyte of interest. Proper sample preparation helps achieve accurate and reliable results in various fields such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science. Techniques can include filtration, extraction, dilution, and homogenization, depending on the type of analysis required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sample preparation technician?

To excel as a Sample Preparation Technician, you generally need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring additional lab-based coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, pipettes, and balances, as well as safety certifications like OSHA training, is often expected. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and the ability to follow precise instructions help individuals stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate and consistent sample processing, which directly impacts the reliability of laboratory analysis and results.

What are some common challenges faced in a sample preparation role, and how can they be addressed?

A common challenge in Sample Preparation is maintaining consistency and accuracy when handling diverse sample types, which may require different preparation techniques. Time management is also crucial, as samples often need to be processed within strict deadlines to support downstream analysis. To address these challenges, it's important to follow standardized protocols carefully, stay organized, and communicate effectively with lab colleagues to prioritize urgent tasks or troubleshoot issues. Regular training on equipment and safety practices also helps ensure high-quality results.

What is the difference between Sample Preparation vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectSample PreparationLaboratory Technician
Primary RolePreparing samples for analysis or testingPerforming tests and procedures on samples
CredentialsOften requires technical certifications or trainingTypically requires an associate degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesLaboratories, industrial settings
Industry UsageCommon in research, pharmaceuticals, environmental testingWidespread in healthcare, manufacturing, research

While both roles work within laboratory settings, Sample Preparation focuses on preparing samples for testing, whereas Laboratory Technicians perform the actual testing and analysis. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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What job categories do people searching Sample Preparation jobs look for?

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Infographic showing various Sample Preparation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,952 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Scientist, Applications Sample Preparation

Glyphic Biotechnologies

Berkeley, CA

$43.25 - $54.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

What we are looking for in you

We are seeking a technically driven, detail-oriented, and collaborative Scientist to apply and optimize sample preparation workflows across Glyphic's single-molecule protein sequencing platform (ProSE), as well as complementary DNA sequencing, RNA sequencing, and mass spectrometry-based proteomics workflows. Reporting to the Director of Assay Integration, you will execute and refine established sample preparation protocols across a broad range of biological inputs and generate high-quality data that supports ProSE performance benchmarking and Glyphic's broader multi-omic strategy, combining ProSE, RNA-seq, DNA-seq, Ribo-seq, and mass spectrometry to identify neoantigens, biomarkers, and drug targets

The ideal candidate is comfortable executing and troubleshooting multi-step protocols across both nucleic acid- and protein-based workflows, rapidly adapting established methods to new sample types, and communicating results clearly across multidisciplinary teams. A track record of hands-on sample prep execution across proteomics and NGS platforms, and comfort operating in high-throughput environments, will be key to making an immediate impact.

This is a full-time, exempt, in-person position with work conducted at our Berkeley, CA location.

What you'll do

Sample Preparation & Assay Execution

  • Evaluate and process incoming biological sample inputs,  including cultured cells, fixed cells, tissue sections, blood, and Key Opinion Leader (KOL) samples - assessing sample-specific constraints and analytical requirements before entering the workflow.
  • Extract and quantify nucleic acids and proteins from these samples, applying established extraction methods across diverse matrices.
  • Apply and adapt enrichment, depletion, and dynamic-range management protocols to improve input quality for low-abundance targets and optimize ProSE and NGS sequencing yield.
  • Perform core molecular biology reactions - buffer preparation, reagent formulation, enzymatic reactions, gel electrophoresis, PCR/qPCR, hybridization-based assays, and amplification workflows - to prepare samples for downstream analysis.
  • Generate sequencing- and analysis-ready outputs: NGS libraries for DNA-seq, RNA-seq, and ribosome profiling across a broad set of platforms, and processed samples for ProSE and mass spectrometry-based proteomic readouts.
  • Support the generation and sourcing of standard reference materials using cell culture techniques.

Assay Optimization & Data Analysis

  • Test protocol variables - reagent concentrations, incubation times, temperature conditions, wash conditions, sample preparation steps, and workflow timing - to optimize assay performance.
  • Generate and analyze high-quality experimental data, evaluating assay performance using metrics such as signal intensity, background, reproducibility, specificity, sensitivity, sample quality, and workflow robustness.
  • Analyze and interpret large-scale proteomic and genomic datasets using quantitative and statistical approaches.
  • Propose and apply in-process controls and analytical tools to build a comprehensive understanding of the factors driving sequencing efficiency across diverse sample and molecule types.
  • Collaborate closely with proteomics, assay development, chemistry and data science  teams to design experiments, interpret results, and guide project strategy - including cross-platform efforts (ProSE, RNA-seq, DNA-seq, ribosome profiling, and mass spectrometry).

What you need

Required:

  • Degree in biochemistry, chemical biology, molecular biology, or an equivalent field; research experience including:
    • PhD / MS / BS with 0+ / 2+ / 4+ years of relevant experience
  • Hands-on experience executing sample preparation protocols across proteomic and nucleic acid-based platforms, generating quantitative readouts across diverse analytical platforms (e.g., LC-MS for proteomics; Illumina, ONT, PacBio, or similar for NGS).
  • Demonstrated skill preparing and processing diverse biological sample types (cell lines, tissue, blood, or other research/clinical matrices) for downstream proteomic and/or genomic analysis.
  • Proficiency with NGS library preparation methods (DNA-seq, RNA-seq, and/or ribosome profiling), including nucleic acid extraction, quantification, amplification, and QC.
  • A track record of applying sample preparation or enrichment methods suited for low-abundance targets or limited input material, including cfDNA and other biofluid-derived analytes.
  • Working knowledge of germline versus somatic sequence variation and its relevance to sample prep and analysis decisions.
  • Understanding of peptide chemistry and strategies to prevent degradation of post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as methylation and phosphorylation.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and close attention to detail.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse scientific and technical backgrounds.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities.

Nice to have:

  • Experience with chemical labeling or modification chemistries (e.g., side-chain labeling, ABPP, or similar chemoproteomic approaches) as applied within established sample preparation workflows.
  • Deep familiarity with highly multiplexed, high-sensitivity protein quantification platforms (e.g., nELISA, NuLISA, immunoassays, PLA, or PEA).
  • Experience with nanopore platforms for sequencing or label-free detection.
  • Experience with single-cell or spatial proteomics and transcriptomics.
  • Familiarity with neoantigen discovery workflows that integrate genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic evidence.
  • Comfort working in R or Python to input experimental results into and navigate established data analysis workflows.

We're looking for a teammate that:

  • Navigates complex team dynamics, partnerships, and challenges with creativity and logic.
  • Operates with adaptability, urgency, and flexibility in evolving environments, thriving in ambiguity.
  • Drives work forward without needing to be asked, taking responsibility for outcomes rather than tasks.
  • Treats obstacles as problems to be creatively solved, not reasons something can't be done.
  • Applies sound judgment to the best available information, testing, learning, and iterating.
  • Shares early and directly when assumptions change, results are unclear, or timelines are at risk.

What you can expect from this role

Work environment:

  • Collaborative culture where your ideas and expertise are valued
  • Direct impact on product development and company direction

Professional growth:

  • Learn from a diverse team of world-class scientists and engineers
  • Contribute to first-of-their kind technologies, high-impact publications, and patents

Compensation

Estimated Base Salary $90,200 - $129,500

This is the pay range for this position that we reasonably expect to pay. Individual compensation is based on various factors including, experience, education, skillset, and geographic location. This range is for the SF Bay Area, California location and may be adjusted to the labor market in other geographic areas.