1

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

Provides clinical supervision and instructions to lab assistants, phlebotomist's, and trainees. * Compiles and prepares reports; reviews and updates laboratory procedures. * Provides in-service ...

US- Lab Assistant (Entry) Location: Berkeley,CA, 94710 Duration: 12 Months Work Type: Onsite We are seeking a part-time lab technician to join our BioSeparations team. The position is for up to 8 ...

Analyzes clinical laboratory specimens following the standard methods and procedures approved by ... Provides general or direct supervision of Lab Assistants and general Clerical Personnel as required ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Clinical Lab Assistant information

See Novato, CA salary details

$16

$30

$82

How much do clinical lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab assistant in Novato, CA is $30.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $31.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 do clinical lab assistants do?

Clinical lab assistants support laboratory operations by preparing specimens, maintaining lab equipment, and recording test results. They often work under the supervision of medical technologists or laboratory managers and need attention to detail and basic knowledge of laboratory procedures.
More about Clinical Lab Assistant jobs

What are popular job titles related to Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Novato, CA?

For Clinical Lab Assistant jobs in Novato, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Assistant job openings in Novato, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,988 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Senior Clinical Lab Scientist

Kaiser Permanente

Oakland, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Kaiser Permanente rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 927 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Summary:

Under the general direction of the Laboratory Director, or their designee, performs pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical procedures and analyses to provide data for health maintenance, diagnoses, treatment and monitoring of medical conditions. Enhances quality of patient care and service through interdepartmental cooperation and quality assurance protocols.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Correctly verifies that the proper specimen is being analyzed for the correct patients and that the correct test is being performed. Judges the adequacy and qualities of specimens submitted for testing.

  • Analyzes clinical laboratory specimens following the standard methods and procedures approved by the Laboratory Director or designee. Performs quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of clinical data. Assist with Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement activities consistent with the Laboratory Quality Plan.

  • Utilizes test reference ranges (including neonates, pediatric and adult) to determine reasonableness of test results Validates test results through correlation with test parameters (e.g. Hgb/Hct, anion gap, platelet count/smear, dipstick/micro etc). Confirms testing on all Critical Values to ensure accuracy prior to releasing of test results.

  • Performs routine preventative maintenance and troubleshooting on assigned instruments and equipment according to established schedule and procedure. Performs and documents instrument function by checking and calibrating specific lab instruments and documents data. Records on instrument logs any repairs, replacement, and maintenance needed of equipment.

  • Releases or reports results per Laboratory Standard Operating Procedures. Trains laboratory assistants, and other Clinical Lab Scientist, on proper techniques/procedures related to clinical laboratory practice. Performs other related duties as necessary.

  • Supervisory Responsibilities: Provides general or direct supervision of Lab Assistants and general Clerical Personnel as required according to lab law and regulations. Corporate Compliance Accountability: Consistently supports the precepts of Corporate Compliance and Principles of Responsibility by maintaining confidentiality, protecting the assets of the organization, acting with integrity, reporting observed fraud and abuse and complying with applicable state, federal and local laws and program policies and procedures.

Basic Qualifications:

Experience

  • Three years experience as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist required.

Education

  • Bachelors Degree * Applicable military experience may be substituted for bachelors degree.

License, Certification, Registration

  • Clinical Laboratory Scientist License (California)

Additional Requirements:

  • Ability to read and comprehend complex instructions, correspondence, and memos.

  • Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other incumbents of the organization.

  • Must be willing to work in a Labor Management Partnership environment.

  • Also refer to Position Specifications outlined in the appropriate collective bargaining agreement.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience including Hematology, Urinalysis, Chemistry, Blood Bank and Bacteriology preferred..

  • Computer application experience/proficiency preferred.

COMPANY: KAISER

TITLE: Senior Clinical Lab Scientist

LOCATION: Oakland, California

REQNUMBER: 1440681

External hires must pass a background check/drug screen. Qualified applicants with arrest and/or conviction records will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with Federal, state and local laws, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran, or disability status.


What Kaiser Permanente employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom