Laboratory Assistant

Job Title: Laboratory Assistant

Job Description

The Laboratory Assistant supports a busy testing laboratory by preparing and processing a high volume of samples each day. This role focuses on accurate sample preparation, data entry, and routine laboratory testing to ensure timely and reliable results. The Laboratory Assistant works closely with the lab team to meet turnaround goals while maintaining quality and compliance with established procedures.

Responsibilities

• Support the laboratory team with incoming sample preparation, managing a high volume of samples each day.

• Assist with weighing samples and plating specimens according to established protocols.

• Enter sample data accurately and promptly into laboratory management systems.

• Complete laboratory testing on all incoming samples while ensuring sample turnaround goals are consistently met.

• Verify test results and submit results for transmission in accordance with lab procedures.

• Identify non-conformances and out-of-specification results and escalate or document them following lab guidelines.

• Perform other laboratory duties as assigned to support overall workflow and operations.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or a related field.

• 0–1 years of experience in a laboratory setting or academic lab environment.

• Hands-on experience with basic lab techniques, including pipetting, assays, dilutions, media preparation, aseptic techniques, and staining.

• Ability to perform sample preparation and lab testing with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

• Comfort working with a high volume of samples in a fast-paced environment.

• Ability to multitask and prioritize workload effectively while meeting turnaround goals.

• Strong data entry skills with the ability to enter information into laboratory management systems in a timely and accurate manner.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in biology or related life sciences disciplines.

• Experience with specimen processing, plating, and general sample handling.

• Demonstrated ability to follow written protocols and standard operating procedures.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain orderly records and documentation.

• Effective communication skills for collaborating with laboratory staff and reporting issues.

• Willingness to perform a variety of laboratory support tasks as needed.

Work Environment

This position is based in a laboratory setting with a focus on processing a high volume of samples. The role requires standing on your feet for extended periods while performing sample preparation and testing tasks. Overtime may be required to meet workload and turnaround demands. The standard shift for this role runs Thursday through Monday from 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Work is performed using common laboratory equipment and techniques, with adherence to lab safety procedures and appropriate laboratory attire.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Tustin, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Tustin,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 5, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.