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Clinical Lab Associate Jobs in Oceanside, CA (NOW HIRING)

... lab management as appropriate. * Assist in troubleshooting issues involving the Laboratory ... Or have earned an associate degree in laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an ...

... lab management as appropriate. * Assist in troubleshooting issues involving the Laboratory ... Or have earned an associate degree in laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an ...

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Clinical Lab Associate information

See Oceanside, CA salary details

$13

$32

$57

How much do clinical lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab associate in Oceanside, CA is $32.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $43.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical lab associate?

Clinical Lab Associates are healthcare professionals who assist in the preparation, processing, and analysis of laboratory specimens. They work under the supervision of laboratory technologists or scientists to ensure tests are conducted accurately and efficiently. Their responsibilities often include specimen collection, data entry, equipment maintenance, and quality control. Clinical Lab Associates play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring patient health by supporting laboratory operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical lab associate?

A Clinical Lab Associate needs a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques, usually supported by a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), automated analyzers, and standard laboratory safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate test results, efficient workflow, and compliance with regulatory standards, which are critical to patient care and laboratory operations.

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

Clinical Lab Associates often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining accuracy under time constraints, and adhering to strict regulatory standards. Effective time management, meticulous attention to detail, and consistent communication with team members are crucial in overcoming these hurdles. Many labs provide ongoing training and support to help staff stay current with best practices and emerging technologies, ensuring that associates can deliver reliable results in a fast-paced environment.

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

AspectClinical Lab AssociateMedical Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certification often preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology; certification usually required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesSample collection, processing, basic testing, data entryPerforming complex tests, analyzing samples, maintaining lab equipment
Industry UsageCommonly employed in healthcare settings for sample handlingMore involved in testing procedures and analysis

While both roles support laboratory operations, Clinical Lab Associates typically focus on sample collection and basic processing, whereas Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. The choice depends on your education level and desired responsibilities within the lab environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Lab jobs in Oceanside, CA?

The most popular types of Clinical Lab jobs in Oceanside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Clinical Lab Associate jobs in Oceanside, CA?

For Clinical Lab Associate jobs in Oceanside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Clinical Lab Associate jobs in Oceanside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Clinical Lab Associate jobs in Oceanside, CA are:

What cities near Oceanside, CA are hiring for Clinical Lab Associate jobs?

Cities near Oceanside, CA with the most Clinical Lab Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Associate job openings in Oceanside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,869 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist II

Exagen Inc.

Vista, CA • On-site

$57 - $72/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Overview
Exagen is a patient-focused and discovery-driven life sciences company dedicated to transforming the care continuum for patients suffering from debilitating and chronic autoimmune diseases. Our goal is to enable rheumatologists to improve care for patients through the differential diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of complex autoimmune and autoimmune-related diseases, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. By leveraging our proprietary Cell-Bound Complement Activation Products, or CB-CAPs, technology, we help get to the real cause of a patient's symptoms and guide their journey to improved health.
The Clinical Laboratory Scientist is responsible for the high complexity testing and analysis of patient's samples in the Flow and Immunochemistry departments. Works closely with the Head of Immunology to ensure that all testing complies with all regulatory standards for the clinical laboratory.
The shift for this position will be Tuesday - Saturday, 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM. Shift times may change as needed based on business needs and coverage.
Responsibilities
Note: Other duties may be assigned.
  • Demonstrate proficiency, competency, and understanding of fundamental principles of clinical laboratory procedures.
  • Review test data, quality control, quality assurance, preventive maintenance, proficiency testing, and other operational activities related to laboratory testing procedures.
    • Conduct quality laboratory testing, including analysis, review, and reporting of Flow and Immunochemistry results, in accordance with approved laboratory procedures.
    • Perform quality control procedures, interpret clinical values, including critical values and delta checks, and determine when test results are reportable, including review of standard curves, controls, reagents and troubleshooting.
    • Document quality control results, out-of-range findings, and corrective actions appropriately.
    • Operate assigned laboratory equipment, which may include Flow Cytometer, Quantalyzer, NOVAView, TECAN-EVO 100, HELMER Ultra-Cell Washer, BIO-TEK ELX50 automated strip washer, Eppendorf centrifuge, and other equipment as required.
    • Perform and document routine daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance and calibration of laboratory instrumentation.
    • Create testing batches in the Laboratory Information System prior to testing and identify and resolve pending specimen results in the system.
  • Assist with investigation and resolution of complaints, problems, discrepancies, critical values, unusual laboratory situations, analytical issues, and system performance concerns; notify lab management as appropriate.
  • Assist in troubleshooting issues involving the Laboratory Information System, equipment, instruments, and assay performance.
  • Follow troubleshooting procedures to correct instrument or equipment deficiencies and collaborate with equipment vendors to initiate maintenance or repairs as needed.
  • Monitor, manage, and maintain sample storage, reagents, and supply inventory for the department.
  • Perform IFA analysis, Flow Cytometry analysis and ELISA data review.
  • Perform basic mathematical calculations required for reagent preparation.
  • Participate in the Quality Assurance program, including identifying, recording, and correcting nonconformances through Corrective or Preventive Action Requests.
  • Oversee, review, and verify the work of other laboratory personnel as assigned.
  • Provide training, guidance, and pertinent technical information to Clinical Laboratory Scientists, laboratory technicians, assistants, and support staff.
  • Collaborate with the Research department, Head of Immunology, and Project Coordinator on assay validation and improvement activities.
  • Participate in internal and external audits as required.
  • Observe all laboratory, Exagen, and regulatory agency policies and procedures.
  • Maintain department safety, including chemical and biological safety, under established safety, infection control, and procedural protocols.
  • Follow safety procedures and use all required safety devices and personal protective equipment according to protocol.
  • Work in a professional, cooperative, and courteous manner and communicate effectively with internal personnel.
  • Assist with interviewing and training employees as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • A current and valid California State Clinical Laboratory Scientist License (CLS) or Clinical Chemistry Scientist (CCS).
  • Bachelor's degree in a chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution
    • Or have earned an associate degree in laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution
  • At least 3 years of Laboratory experience in high complexity testing

Pay Range: $57-72/hour