How to Become a Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians in California
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians in California earn a median salary of $71,920/year, which is 16% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a clinical laboratory technologists and technicians takes home approximately $3,266/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a clinical laboratory technologists and technicians can afford in California
Becoming a clinical laboratory technologists and technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and 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 clinical laboratory technologists and 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 clinical laboratory technologists and 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 29,460 clinical laboratory technologists and technicians. The highest concentrations are in Vallejo and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vallejo | $83K | $39.97/hr | 220 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $82K | $39.37/hr | 1,820 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $81K | $39.13/hr | 5,860 |
| Redding | $80K | $38.63/hr | 70 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $80K | $38.54/hr | 1,940 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $80K | $38.52/hr | 100 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $77K | $37.15/hr | 360 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $77K | $36.83/hr | 360 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $76K | $36.46/hr | 290 |
| Napa | $75K | $36.19/hr | 60 |
| Merced | $73K | $35.05/hr | 40 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $70K | $33.77/hr | 3,020 |
| Modesto | $68K | $32.45/hr | 350 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $62K | $30.02/hr | 10,270 |
| Salinas | $61K | $29.39/hr | 130 |
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians salary range in California
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a clinical laboratory technologists and technicians make in California?▼
The median clinical laboratory technologists and technicians salary in California is $71,920 per year ($34.58/hr). This is 16% above the national median of $61,890. Salaries range from $46,960 to $125,640.
What are the requirements to become a clinical laboratory technologists and technicians in California?▼
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and 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 clinical laboratory technologists and technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $71,920, a clinical laboratory technologists and technicians in California would take home approximately $4,678/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 30.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians in California are Vallejo ($83,140), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($81,900), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($81,390). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $71,920 salary, this means roughly $2,852/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.