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Laboratory Assistant-26433001


This position is eligible for appointment at $44,803.20 annually. County employees are subject to the County Promotion Rule for Step Placement in Accordance with Compensation Ordinance 1.3.5. 

 The County of San Diego is currently accepting applications for

Laboratory Assistant
Interviews will be held the week of March 16th, 2026. Job offers will be made the week of March 23rd, 2026.

Future Salary Increases:

** June 2026 – 4.80% increase to base pay (3.5% Across-the-Board + 1.30% Market Adjustment)

** June 2027 – 4.30% increase to base pay (3.0% Across-the- Board + 1.30% Market Adjustment)


The Laboratory Assistant performs a wide variety of laboratory support work in County laboratories. As a Laboratory Assistant you:

  • Perform work following laboratory safety practices
  • May perform animal dissections and remove brain tissue from rabid animals
  • Assist microbiologists, veterinary pathologists, plant pathologists or other laboratory personnel in varied laboratory functions
  • Prepare lab test kits, culture media, stains and reagents
  • Fill tubes and bottles with specified solutions and apply identification labels
  • Set up, label, and file microscope slides used for testing
  • Receive and prepare specimens for study and processing utilizing various methods and equipment
  • Perform lab courier duties picking up specimens and delivering supplies
  • Computer data entry and accessioning of sample data
  • Will work with infectious agents and infectious materials
  • And perform other related duties as required
Click here to review the Laboratory Assistant job description including examples of qualifying education and experience.

The current vacancies are in Public Health Services (PHS). The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in other departments, such as the Department of Environmental Health and Quality, the Sheriff's Office, and the Medical Examiner's Office.

To learn more about Public Health Services, see the Strategic Plan: HHSA Strategic Plan—2025-26.


HIRING PROCESS & TIMELINE:
The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below. Please note that dates are approximate and are dependent upon the successful completion of each step of the process.

  • Job Offer and Background Process begins: week of March 23rd, 2026. Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening. 
  • Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results.
  • Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of background or other mutually agreed upon date

If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies.


REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  1. One (1) year of work experience as a laboratory aide/assistant in a clinical, public health or veterinary laboratory performing the following tasks: collecting, inspecting, preparing, wrapping, distributing, washing, drying, and sterilizing laboratory glassware, instruments, syringes, and needles; operating autoclaves, ovens and glassware washers; and filing, labeling and distributing media and reagents containers; OR,
     
  2. Completion of at least one (1) year college level coursework which includes biology I/II, or chemistry I/II classes from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency and must have included laboratory classes.

ATTACHMENTS:
For your education and/or certifications to be considered, you must attach a copy of your degree, transcripts, diploma, foreign equivalency report and/or certifications to your application. 


A quality candidate for the Laboratory Assistant position demonstrates a strong foundation in laboratory support functions, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining a safe, organized, and compliant laboratory environment. The candidate possesses the ability to follow established protocols, handle specimens and materials accurately, and support laboratory operations in a fast-paced public health setting. A quality candidate exhibits reliability, professionalism, and the capacity to work collaboratively with technical and non-technical staff. They show an understanding of laboratory safety practices, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), biosafety awareness, and adherence to quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) standards. Additionally, a quality candidate demonstrates effective communication skills, the ability to prioritize tasks, and a willingness to learn and adapt to evolving laboratory needs. Prior experience in specimen handling, inventory management, data entry, or laboratory support services is preferred, along with a clear commitment to public health principles and service to the community.


The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all recruitments.  This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, hides a candidate’s personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age, and race. This process helps contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
 
The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application.
     
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire.


CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:
As part of the County of San Diego’s pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Note: current County employees may be excluded from this process.


EVALUATION:
Qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based on scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment application and supplemental questionnaire.  Please ensure all information is complete and accurate as the responses you provide on the supplemental application form will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system.  If you are successful in the initial screening process, your application will be reviewed individually to confirm that the information you provided is accurate and qualifying.  

Note: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a qualified individual with a disability to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.



As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization. Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans.
 
Veteran’s Preference Policy The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego.
 
Military Skills Translator Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help!


The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Click here for more information on our Strategic Plan (sandiegocounty.gov) 


Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law.



The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset, and our customers are our number one priority.

Date Posted
02/09/2026
Job Reference
26433001
Organization
Health & Human Serv Agcy, Public Health Services
Location
San Diego, CA
Category
Laboratory
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