Lab Assistant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Lab assistants can qualify for H-1B visa and other work visas when the role requires specialized laboratory skills and a relevant bachelor's degree. Research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms frequently sponsor these positions, particularly for roles in clinical research, quality control, or specialized testing that demand specific scientific expertise. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsThis position exists to support the research program of the Cromer Lab, which focuses on genome engineering and synthetic biology approaches to understand and control human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) biology. The lab develops and applies CRISPR-based functional genomics tools, including pooled screening approaches, to identify genetic regulators of erythropoiesis and to enable scalable production and engineering of red blood cells for therapeutic applications.
The incumbent will contribute to experimental workflows involving primary human HSPC culture, genome editing, and high-throughput CRISPR screening. This includes supporting lentiviral library production, transduction of primary cells, and downstream phenotypic and molecular analyses. The position plays a key role in advancing efforts to develop next-generation cell therapies through precise and scalable genome engineering.
The Cromer Lab is part of the UCSF research community and offers a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment spanning stem cell biology, genome engineering, and translational science. This position provides an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking hands-on experience with cutting-edge functional genomics technologies in primary human cells, with prior lab members advancing to graduate programs, medical training, and careers in biotechnology.
UCSF:
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences.
The mission of the UCSF Department of Surgery is threefold: to develop the next generation of leaders in surgery; to provide outstanding quality clinical care that is cost effective, yet compassionate; and to make significant advances in scientific knowledge and clinical practice through basic and clinical research. Care of patients is what attracted our faculty and residents to surgery, and it continues to be our main focus.
The Department is comprised of eleven divisions that include Adult Cardiothoracic Surgery, General Surgery, Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Transplant Surgery, and Vascular & Endovascular Surgery. Our surgeons provide care at locations throughout greater San Francisco including: UCSF Medical Center at Parnassus (Moffitt-Long Hospital), UCSF Medical Center at Mt. Zion, UCSF Medical Center at Mission Bay, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital in Oakland, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco VA Medical Center, and Alameda County Medical Center in Oakland. Our residents also rotate through UCSF Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, and California Pacific Medical Center.
Pediatric Surgery Team consists of internationally recognized leaders providing care at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals at San Francisco and Oakland. Our pediatric general surgery team takes a compassionate, patient-centered approach to care for all who need us. Pediatric Surgery team is responsible for the management of the faculty, research and residents.
Required Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) culture and erythroid differentiation, including cytokine-driven protocols and optimization of maturation and enucleation
- Proficiency in flow cytometry for assessing cell phenotype, differentiation efficiency, and reporter-based readouts
- Experience with lentiviral production and transduction in primary human cells
- Strong background in CRISPR-based genome engineering, including design, cloning, and execution of pooled CRISPR screens (e.g., CRISPRa/i libraries)
- Competence in core molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, plasmid preparation, sequencing validation)
- Experience working with primary human cells, including CD34⁺ HSPC isolation or enrichment
- Demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot complex experimental workflows
- Prior experience preparing reagents and solutions in a research laboratory setting
- Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and one year of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.
- Precise attention to detail.
- Ability to organize data and keep detailed records.
- Proficiency with software programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Excellent communication skills in English.
- Demonstrate excellent attendance and reliability.
About UCSF
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world’s leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.
Pride Values
UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence – also known as our PRIDE values.
In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity – both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.
Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
Salary Information
The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.
Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.
To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html
This position exists to support the research program of the Cromer Lab, which focuses on genome engineering and synthetic biology approaches to understand and control human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) biology. The lab develops and applies CRISPR-based functional genomics tools, including pooled screening approaches, to identify genetic regulators of erythropoiesis and to enable scalable production and engineering of red blood cells for therapeutic applications.
The incumbent will contribute to experimental workflows involving primary human HSPC culture, genome editing, and high-throughput CRISPR screening. This includes supporting lentiviral library production, transduction of primary cells, and downstream phenotypic and molecular analyses. The position plays a key role in advancing efforts to develop next-generation cell therapies through precise and scalable genome engineering.
The Cromer Lab is part of the UCSF research community and offers a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment spanning stem cell biology, genome engineering, and translational science. This position provides an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking hands-on experience with cutting-edge functional genomics technologies in primary human cells, with prior lab members advancing to graduate programs, medical training, and careers in biotechnology.
UCSF:
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences.
The mission of the UCSF Department of Surgery is threefold: to develop the next generation of leaders in surgery; to provide outstanding quality clinical care that is cost effective, yet compassionate; and to make significant advances in scientific knowledge and clinical practice through basic and clinical research. Care of patients is what attracted our faculty and residents to surgery, and it continues to be our main focus.
The Department is comprised of eleven divisions that include Adult Cardiothoracic Surgery, General Surgery, Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Transplant Surgery, and Vascular & Endovascular Surgery. Our surgeons provide care at locations throughout greater San Francisco including: UCSF Medical Center at Parnassus (Moffitt-Long Hospital), UCSF Medical Center at Mt. Zion, UCSF Medical Center at Mission Bay, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital in Oakland, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, San Francisco VA Medical Center, and Alameda County Medical Center in Oakland. Our residents also rotate through UCSF Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, and California Pacific Medical Center.
Pediatric Surgery Team consists of internationally recognized leaders providing care at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals at San Francisco and Oakland. Our pediatric general surgery team takes a compassionate, patient-centered approach to care for all who need us. Pediatric Surgery team is responsible for the management of the faculty, research and residents.
Required Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) culture and erythroid differentiation, including cytokine-driven protocols and optimization of maturation and enucleation
- Proficiency in flow cytometry for assessing cell phenotype, differentiation efficiency, and reporter-based readouts
- Experience with lentiviral production and transduction in primary human cells
- Strong background in CRISPR-based genome engineering, including design, cloning, and execution of pooled CRISPR screens (e.g., CRISPRa/i libraries)
- Competence in core molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, plasmid preparation, sequencing validation)
- Experience working with primary human cells, including CD34⁺ HSPC isolation or enrichment
- Demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot complex experimental workflows
- Prior experience preparing reagents and solutions in a research laboratory setting
- Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and one year of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.
- Precise attention to detail.
- Ability to organize data and keep detailed records.
- Proficiency with software programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Excellent communication skills in English.
- Demonstrate excellent attendance and reliability.
About UCSF
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world’s leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.
Pride Values
UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence – also known as our PRIDE values.
In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity – both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.
Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
Salary Information
The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.
Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.
To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html
See all 616+ Lab Assistant Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Lab Assistant
Target research-intensive employers
Universities, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms have established visa sponsorship programs. They regularly hire international talent for laboratory positions and understand the H-1B process for scientific roles requiring specialized knowledge.
Emphasize specialized laboratory techniques
Highlight proficiency in specific analytical methods, instrumentation, or regulatory compliance (GLP, GMP). Employers sponsor when the role requires specialized technical skills that justify the visa investment and meet specialty occupation requirements.
Consider clinical research organizations
CROs like IQVIA, PPD, and Syneos Health frequently sponsor lab assistants for clinical trial support roles. These positions often require specific regulatory knowledge and technical expertise that qualify for H-1B sponsorship.
Apply to government contractors
Companies with federal research contracts often sponsor international employees for laboratory positions. Defense contractors, environmental consulting firms, and research institutes frequently need specialized technical staff and have visa sponsorship experience.
Focus on quality control positions
QC lab assistant roles in pharmaceuticals and medical devices often require specific regulatory knowledge and technical expertise. These positions typically meet H-1B specialty occupation requirements and have strong sponsorship potential.
Leverage academic connections
University research labs frequently sponsor lab assistants, especially for grant-funded projects requiring specialized skills. Academic positions often provide pathways to research scientist roles and eventual permanent residence through EB-1 or EB-2 categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do lab assistant positions qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, but only when the role requires specialized knowledge and a relevant bachelor's degree. Entry-level positions requiring only basic laboratory skills typically don't qualify. However, roles involving specialized analytical techniques, regulatory compliance, or advanced instrumentation often meet H-1B visa specialty occupation requirements, particularly in pharmaceutical, biotech, or clinical research settings.
What degree do I need for visa sponsorship as a lab assistant?
Most sponsored lab assistant positions require a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, or a related scientific field. The degree field must directly relate to the job duties. Some specialized positions may accept equivalent combinations of education and experience, typically requiring three years of relevant laboratory experience for each missing year of education.
Which industries sponsor lab assistants most frequently?
Pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, clinical research organizations, and academic research institutions sponsor lab assistants most often. Government contractors, environmental consulting firms, and medical device companies also provide sponsorship opportunities. These employers typically need specialized technical skills that justify the H-1B investment and regulatory requirements.
How can I strengthen my lab assistant sponsorship case?
Highlight specialized technical skills like mass spectrometry, chromatography, or regulatory compliance experience. Emphasize any unique qualifications such as GLP/GMP training, specific instrumentation expertise, or clinical trial experience. Document how your specialized knowledge adds value beyond what a typical lab technician provides, demonstrating the role meets specialty occupation requirements.
Can lab assistants transition to research scientist H-1B positions?
Yes, many lab assistants advance to research scientist roles, which have stronger H-1B qualification prospects. Gain experience in specialized techniques, pursue additional certifications, and work on research projects. Some employers sponsor lab assistants initially, then support advancement to scientist positions, which often provide better pathways to permanent residence through EB-2 or EB-1 categories.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Lab Assistant jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
How to find Lab Assistant jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Lab Assistant jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with sponsoring employers. Focus your search on pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, hospitals, and biotechnology firms that commonly sponsor H-1B, TN visa, or other work visas for laboratory positions. These employers often need skilled lab technicians and are willing to sponsor qualified international candidates.