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Clinical Lab Assistant Jobs in Goleta, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cottage Health

Clinical Lab Scientist I

Goleta, CA · On-site

$49.87 - $76.05/hr

CLS I is a classification reserved for recent graduates of approved schools of clinical laboratory ... Organizes time to prioritize, perform, and complete assigned tasks in order to meet lab-wide needs ...

New

VNA Health

Clinical Manager, Home Health

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... assist clinicians as appropriate. * Monitors nursing and rehabilitation team schedules, patient ... Monitors and report lab values for team patients including notification to physician and case ...

VNA Health

Clinical Manager - Home Health

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... assist clinicians as appropriate. * Monitors nursing and rehabilitation team schedules, patient ... Monitors and report lab values for team patients including notification to physician and case ...

Clove Dental

Assistant Hillview

Ventura, CA

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

  • Dental

  • PTO

If you're a motivated self-starter with strong clinical skills and a great work ethic, wed love to ... Monitor supplies and lab cases * Complete daily, weekly, and monthly logs * Call in prescriptions ...

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Clinical Lab Assistant information

See Goleta, CA salary details

$15

$28

$76

How much do clinical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab assistant in Goleta, CA is $28.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.77 and $29.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Lab Assistant, you need a strong background in biology or medical laboratory technology, attention to detail, and typically a certificate or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen processing equipment, and adherence to safety protocols is essential. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in a fast-paced, accuracy-driven environment. These skills ensure precise sample handling, reliable test results, and smooth laboratory operations, which are critical for patient diagnosis and care.

What is the difference between Clinical Lab Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical Lab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
CertificationsNone required, but certification can enhance prospectsCertification often preferred or required (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with specimen collection, prepare samples, maintain lab equipmentPerform tests, analyze samples, record results
EducationHigh school diploma or equivalentPost-secondary education (associate degree)

While both roles support laboratory operations, Clinical Lab Assistants mainly assist with specimen handling and preparation, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform detailed testing and analysis. The roles often overlap in work environment and required credentials, but Medical Laboratory Technicians typically have more advanced training and responsibilities.

What is a clinical lab assistant?

A clinical lab assistant works in a medical lab, helping senior researchers to assess, analyze, and discover diseases and other medical issues. The duties of these technicians include inspecting specimens and running routine and specialized tests. They also maintain records, which are used to make reports to doctors or patients. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s degree in biology, medical sciences, or a related field, as well as experience or training in a lab setting. Depending on state laws, clinical lab assistants may need certification. Other skills include attention to detail and strong written and verbal communication.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical lab assistants, and how can they be managed?

Clinical Lab Assistants often work in fast-paced environments where attention to detail is critical, especially when handling multiple samples and processing tests under time constraints. Managing workload efficiently and maintaining accurate records are essential to avoid errors. Communication with laboratory technologists and other healthcare professionals is also key, as it ensures smooth workflow and timely delivery of results. Staying organized, following strict protocols, and proactively seeking clarification when uncertain can help manage these challenges effectively.
More about Clinical Lab Assistant jobs

What job categories do people searching Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Goleta, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Goleta, CA are:

What cities near Goleta, CA are hiring for Clinical Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Goleta, CA with the most Clinical Lab Assistant job openings:

Clinical Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Assistant job openings in Goleta, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,805 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Clinical Lab Scientist I

Cottage Health

Goleta, CA • On-site

$49.87 - $76.05/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Cottage Health rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Performs standard tests to obtain data used in diagnosis and treatment of patients. CLS I is a classification reserved for recent graduates of approved schools of clinical laboratory science, individuals re-entering the field, and individuals who may not meet all the required qualifications of a CLS II. May work in any of the following departments: Blood Bank, Microbiology, Automated, Non-Automated, or Critical Care. CLS I performs standard tests, may provide some work direction for non-licensed personnel. Requires work review and works with supervision.
Responsibilities
This is not an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Employees will be required to perform any job, with related instruction given by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.
  • Maintains technical competency, flexibility, and accuracy in assigned areas. Properly utilizes the LIS for inquiry, specimen requirements, and patient results. Demonstrates appropriate use of medical supplies, reagents, test kits, controls, and calibration material. Accurately and consistently evaluates, resolves, and documents quality control (QC) data. Demonstrates general problem solving including follow-through on identified problems and documentation of corrective action. Participates with instrument maintenance and troubleshooting. (70%)
  • Demonstrates an understanding of the concepts of quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA). Monitors the appropriateness and acceptability of test results. Participates with CAP proficiency surveys. Follows guidelines necessary for regulatory compliance and participates in preparation for inspection by various accrediting agencies. Completes required competency evaluations. Attends and completes all mandatory continuing education in-services. (10%)
  • Participates in Shared Governance. Participates with the training of students and/or employees by either giving lectures or providing training in-services. Participates in the evaluation of new tests, methods, or instrumentation. Participates in writing and/or updating procedure manuals and technical checklists. Participates in system-wide efforts to improve service and quality. (10%)
  • Completes required continuing education for licensure. Maintains own technical checklist. Takes initiative for planning and completing professional development as it applies to laboratory goals, sytem goals, and personal/professional goals. Participates in cross-training for tests and/or analyzers to improve technical flexibility. Facilitates meeting laboratory goals and system goals by sharing information obtained through professional development activities. (5%)
  • Effectively communicates with team members in order to complete assigned tasks. Organizes and prioritizes duties as needed. Able to work as a team player in regard to workstation, shift, and schedule needs to best serve laboratory and health system goals. Organizes time to prioritize, perform, and complete assigned tasks in order to meet lab-wide needs and deadlines. Demonstrates initiative by taking a lead role when appropriate. (5%)

Qualifications
All job qualifications listed indicate the minimum level necessary to perform this job proficiently.
LEVEL OF EDUCATION
Minimum:
  • Bachelors Degree

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Preferred:
  • California license as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist. Licensure and experience has been validated and has been deemed qualified under the guidelines of the State of California and CLIA to perform clinical laboratory tests and examinations classified as waived, moderate or high complexity as described under CLIA.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Minimum:
  • Functional experience with common laboratory analyzers and laboratory computer systems, including PC's.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES
All knowledge, skills, and abilities listed indicate the minimum level deemed necessary to perform this job proficiently.
  • Ability to work independently. Takes initiative and works cooperatively in finding solutions to problems as they arise.
  • Assumes responsibility for role in creating a collaborative work environment. Ability to follow oral and written instructions. Holds self and others accountable to the Code of Conduct.
  • The employee communicates effectively.Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, pursuant to the CHS English Proficiency and Usage policy.
  • Supports the mission, vision, and values of CHS by attending a Code of Conduct class within six months of hire.

About Us
Cottage Health is a leading acute care hospital system, located on the central coast of California, widely known for our superior patient care, innovation, medical research and education. Our health system operates primarily in Santa Barbara, CA, since 1888, and consists of three acute care hospitals, a Rehabilitation Hospital, multiple clinics and a multi-site Urgent Care system. Our mission is to serve the central coast communities with excellence, integrity, and compassion. Every day we touch thousands of lives in many different ways, resolute in our mission to put patients first. We take pride in helping our patients get back to living their lives - in the places they love.
*Pay for non-physician positions is determined based on related years of experience and internal equity. Eligible employees may also receive additional forms of compensation, including shift differentials, on-call pay, incentive pay, and bonus opportunities, where applicable. Manager and above positions may participate in Cottage Health's annual management incentive program. Physician compensation is determined based upon specialty and may include bonus potential. For more information on our comprehensive Total Rewards offerings, please visit https://cottagehealth.org/careers/total-rewards.
If you're already a Cottage Health employee, please apply on this link only.

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