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Scientific Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Life Sciences Associate

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$260K - $420K/yr

Senior Associate/Counsel § Practice Area: Life Sciences & Capital Markets, Bio-Pharmaceutical Transactions, Public Securities, and Venture Finance § Location: San Francisco, CA (Onsite/Hybrid) § ...

Associate's/Bachelor's degree in life sciences highly preferred, but not required * Recent grads are encouraged to apply! * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills * Coachable, dependable ...

Associate Scientist

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/hr

Associate Scientist Carlsbad, CA | Full-Time | On-Site About the Role: We are seeking a highly ... Perform literature reviews, experimental planning, and technology evaluations to support scientific ...

This role will provide scientific and strategic leadership for the development, qualification ... Collaborate with scientists, senior scientists, Associate Directors, and the Director to plan ...

Showing results 21-40

Scientific Associate information

See California salary details

$13

$31

$51

How much do scientific associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific associate in California is $31.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $39.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a scientific associate do?

A scientific associate conducts experiments, collects and analyzes data, and supports research projects in laboratories or field settings. They often use specialized tools and follow safety protocols, and may require knowledge of scientific methods and technical skills. Their work helps advance scientific understanding and supports research objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scientific associate?

Thriving as a Scientific Associate requires a strong background in biological or chemical sciences, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard lab equipment is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate research results, efficient collaboration, and compliance with scientific and safety standards.

How does a scientific associate typically collaborate with senior scientists and other team members on ongoing research projects?

Scientific Associates play a key role in supporting research initiatives by working closely with senior scientists and cross-functional teams. They often assist with experimental design, data collection, and analysis, while also helping to troubleshoot technical issues in the lab. Regular communication and collaboration are essential, as Scientific Associates frequently participate in team meetings, present findings, and contribute to problem-solving discussions. This collaborative environment not only enhances project outcomes but also provides valuable opportunities for learning and professional development.

What is the difference between Scientific Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectScientific AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or related field; some roles may require a master'sAssociate's degree or relevant certification; some roles may require a bachelor's
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, academic institutionsClinical labs, research facilities, industrial laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageResearch and development, biotech, pharmaceuticals, academiaHealthcare, diagnostics, manufacturing, research

Both roles involve laboratory work, but Scientific Associates typically engage in more complex research tasks and data analysis, while Laboratory Technicians focus on routine testing and sample preparation. The choice depends on your education level and career goals within scientific and laboratory settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific jobs in California? The most popular types of Scientific jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Scientific Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Scientific Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Scientific Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,616 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Thermal Sciences Associate (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.

Menlo Park, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

About Exponent

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients' most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.  

Our vision is to engage multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.  

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you'll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team! 

Key statistics: 

  • 950+ Consultants 
  • 640+ Ph.D.s 
  • 90+ Disciplines 
  • 30+ Offices globally 
Our Opportunity

We are currently seeking a Thermal Sciences Associate for our Thermal Sciences Practice in Menlo Park, CA. This position will involve applying fundamental engineering and scientific techniques to real-world problems in failure analysis risk mitigation and product development.

You will be responsible for
  • Analyzing and distilling complex data
  • Performing laboratory experiments and analytical or computational modeling
  • Reviewing and understanding experiments and simulations performed by clients
  • Researching and parsing data from published literature
  • Conducting risk assessments
  • Preparing written reports, proposals, and presentations
  • Managing projects and maintaining efficiency under deadlines
  • Most assignments will require the ability to gather information from and convey technical conclusions to individuals in engineering, the legal profession, business and industry
You will have the following skills and qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Aero-Astro, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical, Nuclear, Petroleum Engineering, or a related field, with a practical and theoretical understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and combustion
  • Presently legally authorized to work in the United States.  No immigration sponsorship or processing required. 
  • Outstanding ability to apply fundamental engineering concepts to new problems
  • Hands-on experience in designing and executing experimental programs
  • Familiarity with technical documents and equipment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV (Curriculum Vitae) with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].

Life @ Exponent

To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.  

Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference. 

Work Environment

At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients. #LI-Onsite

Compensation

Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, annual bonus and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.

Salary RangeUSD $140,000.00 - USD $160,000.00 /Yr.Benefits you will enjoy

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:  https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent 

 Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. 

 If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com. 

Job LocationsUS-CA-Menlo ParkEmployment Type: FULL_TIME