ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Temporary Research Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

BioPhase Solutions

Research Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Temporary, 3-4 month contract Employer: BioPhase Solutions About the Role BioPhase Solutions is seeking a Research Assistant - Plant Cell Biology to support the cell biology and plant tissue culture ...

New

Keck Graduate Institute

Research Assistant

Claremont, CA · On-site

$18.90/hr

Research Assistant Position Overview: This position will perform experiments and AI modeling for ... This is a staff, part-time, temporary, non-exempt position. Hours will vary to meet the needs of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch JobsTemporary Research Assistant JobsTemporary Research Assistant Jobs in California

Temporary Research Assistant information

See California salary details

$8

$21

$31

How much do temporary research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary research assistant in California is $21.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What typical tasks can I expect as a temporary research assistant, and how do these contribute to the team's goals?

As a Temporary Research Assistant, your daily tasks will likely include gathering and organizing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing research materials, and assisting with data entry or analysis. You may also support the team by coordinating meetings, maintaining project documentation, and helping with the preparation of reports or presentations. These responsibilities are crucial for keeping research projects on track and ensuring that findings are reliable and well-documented. Working closely with lead researchers and other assistants, you’ll play an important role in the overall success and efficiency of the research team. This experience can also offer valuable exposure to research methodologies and collaborative project work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the temporary research assistant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Research Assistant, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, experience with data collection and analysis, and strong attention to detail. Familiarity with research tools such as Microsoft Excel, SPSS, or survey platforms, as well as IRB or CITI certification, is often preferred. Excellent organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to communicate clearly are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate, efficient support for research projects and smooth collaboration with team members in fast-paced environments.

What is a temporary research assistant?

A Temporary Research Assistant supports research projects for a limited period, typically assisting with data collection, literature reviews, experiments, and administrative tasks. They work under the supervision of a lead researcher or principal investigator. These positions are common in academic institutions, laboratories, and research organizations. The role provides valuable experience for students, recent graduates, or individuals exploring research careers.

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

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Temporary Research Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Research Assistant jobs in California are:

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

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

Temporary Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Research Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,974 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Temporary Research Assistant

The University of Pennsylvania

Boulevard, CA • On-site

$7.25 - $17/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

University Of Pennsylvania rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

University Overview
The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been consistently ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers.
Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.
Posted Job Title
Temporary Research Assistant
Job Profile Title
Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt
Job Description Summary
Temporary Research Assistant
Job Description
Temporary Research Assistant will assist in scheduling meetings, searching for literature, and attending meetings.
Job Location - City, State
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Department / School
Perelman School of Medicine
Pay Range
$7.25 - $17.00 Hourly Rate
Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Special Requirements
A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.
University Benefits
  • Health and Life: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family's health and welfare.
  • Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn's Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

Please note that benefit eligibility is determined/based on ACA guidelines.

What University Of Pennsylvania employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

University of Pennsylvania logo

About University of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Employers By State in 2021.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1740

View All University of Pennsylvania Jobs

Apply