Lab Associate

Laboratory Associate

Job Description

The Laboratory Associate supports daily specimen processing and overall laboratory operations by receiving, labeling, preparing, documenting, and routing biological specimens in a precise and timely manner. This role works under the supervision of qualified laboratory staff and may assist with specimen accessioning, cytology preparation, molecular testing, automated laboratory equipment, or general laboratory functions, depending on experience and departmental needs. The Laboratory Associate plays a key role in maintaining accurate records, following established procedures, and upholding laboratory safety and infection-control standards.

Responsibilities

• Receive, sort, and organize incoming biological specimens according to established laboratory procedures.

• Label and prepare specimens accurately for cytology, molecular, histology, or other laboratory testing.

• Verify specimen and patient information for accuracy and completeness before processing.

• Enter specimen and related information into the laboratory information system with a high level of accuracy.

• Prepare, track, and route specimens to the appropriate laboratory departments for further analysis.

• Load and unload automated laboratory instruments as trained and in accordance with standard operating procedures.

• Check specimen, vial, and slide labels before processing to ensure proper identification and traceability.

• Maintain accurate records of specimens, equipment maintenance, temperatures, reagents, and other required documentation.

• Organize, stock, and rotate laboratory supplies while monitoring inventory levels and expiration dates.

• Clean and maintain laboratory work areas, equipment, and instruments to support a safe and efficient environment.

• Communicate missing, incomplete, or incorrect specimen or patient information to the appropriate team member for resolution.

• Follow written procedures, laboratory protocols, safety requirements, and infection-control standards at all times.

• Handle biological specimens using appropriate protective equipment and safe laboratory practices.

• Work at a steady pace to meet daily specimen processing deadlines and support timely testing for healthcare providers.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• At least one year of experience in a laboratory, specimen-processing, manufacturing, or other detail-oriented technical environment.

• Hands-on experience with specimen processing or similar technical workflows.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.

• Ability to follow written procedures and maintain accurate records consistently.

• Comfort using computers and entering information into laboratory or tracking systems.

• Comfortable handling biological specimens while using appropriate protective equipment.

• Ability to work at a steady, consistent pace and meet daily processing deadlines.

• Understanding of basic lab safety and infection-control practices.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in a diagnostic or clinical laboratory environment.

• Familiarity with cytology, molecular, or histology specimen preparation.

• Experience working with automated laboratory instruments.

• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage supplies and maintain orderly work areas.

• Effective communication skills to relay missing or incorrect information to team members.

• Ability to adapt to different tasks and support various laboratory departments based on operational needs.

Work Environment

This role is fully onsite five days per week in a laboratory setting located in Pleasant Hill. The Laboratory Associate works within a multispecialty pathology environment that supports diagnostic testing, tissue sample evaluation, and molecular testing for healthcare providers. The position involves regular handling of biological specimens and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment in accordance with lab safety and infection-control standards. The work involves standing, walking, and working at a steady pace throughout the shift to meet daily processing deadlines. Various shifts are available between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM, so candidates need to be flexible within this range. The environment includes the use of laboratory information systems, automated laboratory instruments, and standard lab equipment, with a focus on accuracy, cleanliness, and adherence to established procedures.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $26.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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 Pleasant Hill,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 19, 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.