How to Become a Biological Technicians in California
Biological Technicians in California earn a median salary of $64,020/year, which is 23% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.5%. After taxes and rent, a biological technicians takes home approximately $2,855/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a biological technicians can afford in California
Becoming a biological technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Biological Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many biological technicians positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for biological technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 10,680 biological technicians. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Biological Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $79K | $38.11/hr | 3,510 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $72K | $34.58/hr | 720 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $63K | $30.42/hr | 1,740 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $63K | $30.08/hr | 720 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $61K | $29.36/hr | 2,160 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $60K | $28.92/hr | 80 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $59K | $28.46/hr | 60 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $56K | $26.99/hr | 150 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $55K | $26.63/hr | 100 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $55K | $26.4/hr | 40 |
| Salinas | $52K | $24.76/hr | 60 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $48K | $23.08/hr | 60 |
| Fresno | $44K | $21.37/hr | 140 |
| Redding | $44K | $21.21/hr | 40 |
| Visalia | $40K | $19.08/hr | 60 |
Biological Technicians salary range in California
Biological Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a biological technicians make in California?▼
The median biological technicians salary in California is $64,020 per year ($30.78/hr). This is 23% above the national median of $52,000. Salaries range from $44,300 to $103,750.
What are the requirements to become a biological technicians in California?▼
Biological Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a biological technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $64,020, a biological technicians in California would take home approximately $4,267/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for biological technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for biological technicians in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($79,270), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($71,920), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($63,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for biological technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.5%. On a $64,020 salary, this means roughly $2,220/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.