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

Clinical Lab Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$69.88 - $97.82/hr

CLS-Clinical Lab Scientist Generalist SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: Demonstrated knowledge and technical competence in routine specimen collection, preparation, testing applications, laboratory operations ...

The Food Lab Assistant supports sensory testing operations by preparing samples, setting up and maintaining testing environments, assisting study participants, and managing sensory lab inventory.

Clinical Lab Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$69.88 - $97.82/hr

CLS-Clinical Lab Scientist Generalist SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: Demonstrated knowledge and technical competence in routine specimen collection, preparation, testing applications, laboratory operations ...

Clinical Lab Scientist I

Oakland, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Clinical Lab Scientist I Internal Only Available to current Alameda Health System employees only * Oakland, CA * Highland General Hospital * HGH Clinical Laboratory * Services As Needed / Per Diem ...

New

CLSL-Licensed Clinical Lab Scientist SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE * Knowledge of laboratory test methods, specimen requirements, test limitations, test interpretations sufficient to perform tests accurately ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Clinical Lab Assistant information

See Novato, CA salary details

$16

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$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

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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.

Lead Clinical Lab Scientist

Sonoma Valley Hospital

Sonoma, CA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Overview

The Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist performs and prioritizes a wide range of clinical laboratory tests, reviews and reports results, and upholds patient confidentiality, safety standards, and maintenance protocols. This role provides technical oversight, serves as a superuser for key instruments and systems, and leads staff training, competency, and routine maintenance activities to ensure efficient, high-quality laboratory operations.

Responsibilities

Serves as departmental lead and technical resource for CLS staff, providing day-to-day guidance and problem resolution.

Functions as a superuser for designated instruments, analyzers, middleware, and LIS modules; assists staff with troubleshooting and workflow optimization.

Oversees department-specific training, onboarding, and annual competency assessments for testing personnel.

Coordinates instrument maintenance schedules, service calls, and downtime procedures to ensure continuous operations.

Assists with development, revision, and implementation of SOPs, quality improvement activities, and regulatory compliance initiatives

Monitors workflow, prioritizes testing assignments, and ensures efficient, timely specimen processing and reporting.

Acts as liaison between laboratory leadership, technical consultants, and staff regarding operational issues and quality metrics.

Documents adverse events using incident reporting tool.

Orients, instructs and provides day-to-day operational guidance to Laboratory Assistants as needed.

Keeps all work stations in the department clean.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree (B.A./B.S) in related field or equivalent.

Experience: Minimum 5 years previous experience as a Clinical Lab Scientist with progressive responsibility in an acute care setting.

Licenses & Certifications: Current California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license.

Required Skills & Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of accepted clinical laboratory practice and procedures including proper procurement of specimens, handling and disposing of potentially infectious material, and familiarity with California law relating to the practice of medical technology. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Versatility, flexibility and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm. Ability to effectively communicate with people at all levels and from various backgrounds. This Lead Position requires Microbiology experience.

Compensation

Actual compensation takes into account several factors including but not limited to a candidate’s experience, education, skills, licensure and certifications, department equity, training and organizational needs. Eligible roles also qualify for a comprehensive benefits package.

Minimum Compensation

USD $59.94

Maximum Compensation

USD $82.42

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