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Student Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Goleta, CA

Cottage Health

Clinical Lab Scientist I

Goleta, CA · On-site

$49.87 - $76.05/hr

Participates with the training of students and/or employees by either giving lectures or providing ... research and education. Our health system operates primarily in Santa Barbara, CA, since 1888, and ...

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Student Research Lab Assistant information

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$11

$21

$32

How much do student research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for student research lab assistant in Goleta, CA is $21.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a student research lab assistant typically collaborate with faculty and other researchers in a lab setting?

Student Research Lab Assistants often work closely with faculty members, graduate students, and other researchers to support ongoing experiments and projects. They may assist with data collection, sample preparation, or maintaining lab equipment, while also attending group meetings to discuss progress and troubleshoot issues. Regular communication and teamwork are essential, as assistants may be asked to present findings or help document procedures. This collaborative environment provides hands-on learning experiences and professional networking opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Student Research Lab Assistant, you need a basic understanding of scientific methods, attention to detail, and relevant coursework in your field of study. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data analysis software such as Microsoft Excel or lab-specific programs is typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and efficient teamwork, all of which contribute to successful research outcomes.

What is a student research lab assistant?

Student Research Lab Assistants are typically undergraduate or graduate students who work in academic or research laboratories to support ongoing research projects. Their responsibilities can include preparing materials, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining lab equipment, and assisting faculty or senior researchers with experiments. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in scientific research methods and laboratory protocols. Student Research Lab Assistants often gain skills that are beneficial for future academic or professional pursuits in science-related fields.

What is the difference between Student Research Lab Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectStudent Research Lab AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled student, relevant courseworkEnrolled student or recent graduate, relevant field
Work EnvironmentUniversity labs, academic settingsResearch institutions, labs, or corporate R&D
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch organizations, industry R&D departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Student Research Lab Assistant and a Research Intern lies in their typical work environment and employer. Student Research Lab Assistants usually work within university labs as part of their coursework, while Research Interns often work in research institutions or industry settings. Both roles require relevant coursework or academic background, but the internship may also target recent graduates. Understanding these distinctions helps students and job seekers find the right opportunity aligned with their academic and career goals.

What qualifications do I need to be a student research lab assistant?

To be a student research lab assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled in a relevant academic program and have a strong interest in the research area. Relevant skills include basic laboratory techniques, good organizational abilities, and familiarity with research tools or software; some positions may require a minimum GPA or prior coursework in science or related fields.

How hard is it to get a job as a student research lab assistant?

Securing a position as a student research lab assistant typically requires relevant coursework, basic laboratory skills, and a strong academic record. Competition can vary depending on the institution and the research area, but demonstrating enthusiasm and reliability can improve chances of hiring. Some roles may also require background checks or training in safety protocols.

What does a student research lab assistant do?

A student research lab assistant supports scientific experiments and data collection under the supervision of researchers or lab managers. They may prepare materials, operate lab equipment, record results, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often gaining experience with specialized tools and techniques. This role typically requires attention to detail, basic knowledge of scientific methods, and adherence to safety standards.

What job categories do people searching Student Research Lab Assistant jobs in Goleta, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Student Research Lab Assistant jobs in Goleta, CA are:

What cities near Goleta, CA are hiring for Student Research Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Goleta, CA with the most Student Research Lab Assistant job openings:

Student Research Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Student Research Lab Assistant job openings in Goleta, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,439 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Laboratory Assistant II

Cottage Health System

Goleta, CA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Pacific Diagnostic Laboratories, LLC seeks a Laboratory Assistant II for their PDL Cytology Lab department responsible for the front-end, pre-analytical operations in their area of responsibility. They are the front-line/public relations members of the laboratory team and need to maintain appropriate professionalism in a stressful and unpredictable working environment. Under appropriate levels of supervision, as required by regulatory agencies. Responsibilities include:

  • Processing of all types of specimens, operating Laboratory and Hospital Information Systems for data entry and retrieval, providing client services, performing microbiology procedures, and limited operation of automated instrumentation.
Cottage Health is a leading acute care hospital system, located on the central coast of California, widely known for our superior patient care, innovation, medical research and education. Our health system operates primarily in Santa Barbara, CA, since 1888, and consists of three acute care hospitals, a Rehabilitation Hospital, multiple clinics and a multi-site Urgent Care system. Our mission is to serve the central coast communities with excellence, integrity, and compassion. Every day we touch thousands of lives in many different ways, resolute in our mission to put patients first. We take pride in helping our patients get back to living their lives - in the places they love.

*Pay for non-physician positions is determined based on related years of experience and internal equity. Eligible employees may also receive additional forms of compensation, including shift differentials, on-call pay, incentive pay, and bonus opportunities, where applicable. Manager and above positions may participate in Cottage Health's annual management incentive program. Physician compensation is determined based upon specialty and may include bonus potential. For more information on our comprehensive Total Rewards offerings, please visit https://cottagehealth.org/careers/total-rewards.

If you're already a Cottage Health employee, please apply on this link only.

All job qualifications listed indicate the minimum level necessary to perform this job proficiently. 

Education:

  • Preferred: College level coursework in anatomy, physiology, chemistry and/or biology.

Technical Requirements:

  • Minimum: Computer keyboard skills.
  • Preferred: Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation and equipment.

Years of Related Work Experience:

  • Preferred: Clinical laboratory experience or comparable training and experience that provide skills to perform the job tasks competently.

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