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

Field Clinical Specialist

Orange, CA

$83K - $90K/yr

Working closely with physicians, electrophysiology (EP) lab staff, and other healthcare ... Associate degree plus 9 years of relevant clinical support experience * Bachelor's degree plus 7 ...

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Clinical Lab Associate information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$32

$57

How much do clinical lab associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical lab associate in Riverside, CA is $32.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $43.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical lab associate?

A clinical lab associate is a healthcare professional responsible for performing laboratory tests on patient samples to assist in diagnosis and treatment. They typically handle specimen processing, operate laboratory equipment, and follow safety protocols, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of laboratory procedures.

Where do CLS get paid the most?

Clinical Lab Associates tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare industries, such as major metropolitan areas. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the size of the employer, with larger hospitals and private labs often offering higher pay.

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 are Clinical Lab Associates?

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, and why are they important?

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 qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To be a clinical lab associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate degree or certification in clinical laboratory science. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and knowledge of safety protocols. Certification or training may be required depending on the specific role and employer.

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.

How much does a lab assistant get paid?

A clinical lab associate or lab assistant typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often working in hospital or diagnostic laboratory settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Lab jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Clinical Lab jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Clinical Lab Associate jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Clinical Lab Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Clinical Lab Associate job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,442 per year, or $32.9 per hour.
Medical Lab Assistant-Trans

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Loma Linda University Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 1,004 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Summary: The Medical Lab Assistant-Trans performs various technical procedures following standard operating procedures and current Good Manufacturing Practices for patient specimens and blood products for the Blood Bank. Receives incoming calls and makes outgoing calls. Services multiple calls, requests, and tasks at one time while maintaining a professional manner. Performs preanalytic specimen identification, order entry/verification, specimen handling and communication duties. Performs blood collection by phlebotomy and capillary puncture in a safe, accurate and professional manner. These services may be provided for both the LLUMC and LLUCH hospitals. Hours may vary based on assignment and need. Performs other duties as needed.
Education and Experience: High School Diploma or GED required. Associate's Degree preferred. Minimum one year of experience in high complexity medical lab performing specimen collection, testing and computer data entry preferred.
Knowledge and Skills: Knowledge of tests, test requirements, specimen types, collection tubes and preservative. Healthcare knowledge and telephone techniques including etiquette. Must be able to demonstrate scheduling flexibility within limits of ability. Demonstrates proficiency in operating multiple electronic applications used for scheduling appointments, ordering tests, obtaining test results, messaging and recording patient information. Possesses excellent dexterity. Ability to operate technical instruments and equipment, input data and type. Possesses clear speaking abilities in English. Ability to use available resource material independently to resolve and document challenges constructively. Possesses excellent and effective verbal and written communication skills in English. Maintains excellent interpersonal relationships with all customers (e.g., staff, patients, vendors). Ability to give constructive and actionable feedback. Fosters cooperation and collaboration, actively solicits opinions from others and builds respect and trust. Possesses excellent analytic skills. Explains and teaches. Responds to guidance constructively. Detail oriented. Able to reason and solve problems effectively. Able to organize work, manage workload, service multiple requests and tasks simultaneously, while maintaining quality and a professional manner. Self-motivated and works well with minimal direction. Articulates logical and well-founded arguments that support conclusions. Ability to hear sufficiently for general conversation in person/on the telephone and identify and distinguish various sounds associated with workplace/patient care; see adequately to read computer screens, medical records, and written documents necessary to the position; discern temperature variances through touch.
Licensures and Certifications: Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) or Clinical Lab Technician (CLT) preferred. State of California Certified Phlebotomy Technician I required. American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for Healthcare Providers required.

Our mission is to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Our core values are compassion, excellence, humility, integrity, justice, teamwork and wholeness.
Loma Linda University Health is a Seventh-day Adventist, faith and values based Christian institution. Candidates must understand and embrace the mission, purpose, and identity of Loma Linda and its affiliated entities.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to the principles of diversity. We provide equal opportunities in all aspects of the employment process to every individual, regardless of gender, race, color, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law. In addition, we will provide reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified individuals requesting an accommodation due to a disability. If you need accommodation assistance with accessing our job listings or completing an application, or during any other phase of employment with us, please contact Human Resources Management at (909) 651-4001.

Loma Linda University Medical Center is a religiously-qualified Equal Opportunity Employer under Title VII of Civil Rights Act of 1964. No question on this application is asked for the purpose of unlawfully limiting or excluding any applicant's consideration for employment because of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law. If you need a reasonable accommodation in the hiring process, please notify Human Resource Management.

We appreciate your interest in Loma Linda and wish you success in your job search!

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About Loma Linda University Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) is an esteemed healthcare organization situated in Loma Linda, California, US. Established in 1905, it was initially known as the College of Medical Evangelists, and it operated as the official medical institution of the Seventh-day Adventist Church until the name was changed to LLUH in 1961. LLUH is very much active in the healthcare and education sectors, providing a vast range of services such as medical treatment, research, and health education. The organization’s core mission is "to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ", which underlines its binding values of compassion, integrity, excellence, freedom, and justice.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitality services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Loma Linda, CA, US