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Clinical Lab Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As an Clinical Lab Scientist joining our team, you're embracing a vital mission dedicated to making communities healthier . Join us on this meaningful journey where your skills, compassion and ...

Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) Location: Sylmar, CA Department/Unit: Clinical Laboratory Salary Range: $35 to $40 per hour Shift: Day Shift (8:00 AM to 4:30 PM) Schedule: Monday to Friday with rotating ...

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How much do clinical lab scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for clinical lab scientist in the United States is $94,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Clinical Lab Scientists?

Clinical Lab Scientists, also known as medical laboratory scientists or medical technologists, are healthcare professionals who perform laboratory tests on patient samples to help diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They analyze blood, urine, tissue, and other bodily fluids using sophisticated equipment and techniques. Their work is essential for providing accurate and timely information to physicians, ensuring effective patient care. Clinical Lab Scientists must follow strict protocols and maintain quality control to ensure reliable results. They often work in hospitals, clinics, research labs, and public health organizations.

Is becoming a CLS worth it?

Becoming a Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) offers stable employment, a competitive salary, and opportunities for specialization in areas like microbiology or hematology. The role requires a bachelor's degree, certification, and proficiency with laboratory equipment, making it a valuable career for those interested in healthcare diagnostics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clinical Lab Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Lab Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory procedures, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science and relevant certification (such as ASCP). Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and quality control protocols is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help ensure accurate testing and collaboration with healthcare teams. These competencies are crucial for delivering reliable diagnostic results that directly impact patient care and treatment decisions.

Who gets paid more, MLS or MLT?

Clinical Lab Scientists (MLS) typically earn higher salaries than Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) due to advanced training, certification, and responsibilities. MLS professionals often have a bachelor's degree and perform more complex testing, which is reflected in their higher pay scale compared to MLTs, who usually have an associate degree and perform routine lab work.

What are some common challenges Clinical Lab Scientists face when handling high sample volumes, and how can they manage these effectively?

Clinical Lab Scientists often experience periods of high sample volume, especially during outbreaks or peak hospital admissions. Managing this workload requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with laboratory information systems to track samples efficiently. Effective communication with team members and prioritizing urgent cases help ensure timely and accurate results. Continual process improvement and adherence to quality control protocols also play a key role in maintaining performance under pressure.

What does a clinical lab scientist do?

A clinical lab scientist, also known as a medical laboratory technologist, performs laboratory tests on blood, tissue, and other specimens to help diagnose, treat, and monitor diseases. They operate and maintain complex laboratory equipment, analyze test results, and ensure quality control, often working in hospital or diagnostic lab settings and requiring certification or licensure. Their work supports healthcare providers in making accurate medical decisions.

What Does a Clinical Lab Scientist Do?

As a clinical lab scientist, you work in a laboratory to process tests used in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. Your duties may include monitoring test quality, analyzing tissue, cells, and body fluids, working with other lab staff, and communicating results to physicians. You identify bacteria and viruses, ensure proper handling of blood and potentially biologically hazardous materials, prepare lab tests, organize samples, review drug levels and toxicology, and make conclusions from test results. A clinical lab scientist typically works for a clinic, doctor's office, research lab, or a diagnostic lab.

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

AspectClinical Lab ScientistMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in medical technology or related field, certification (ASCP, AMT)Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology, certification (ASCP, AMT)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilitiesHospitals, clinics, smaller labs
Job ResponsibilitiesPerform complex tests, analyze results, supervise lab staffPrepare samples, perform routine tests, maintain equipment

Clinical Lab Scientists and Medical Laboratory Technicians both work in laboratory settings and require certification. However, Clinical Lab Scientists typically hold a bachelor's degree and perform more complex testing and analysis, often supervising others. Medical Laboratory Technicians usually have an associate's degree and focus on routine testing and sample preparation. Both roles are essential in healthcare diagnostics, but Clinical Lab Scientists generally have a broader scope of responsibilities.

How much does CLS make?

Clinical Laboratory Scientists (CLS) in California typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, certification, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, with higher wages often found in urban areas and specialized laboratories. Certification through the ASCP or equivalent can also influence earning potential.
What cities are hiring for Clinical Lab Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Clinical Lab Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Lab Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Clinical Lab Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Clinical Lab Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Clinical Lab Scientist jobs include:
Travel Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS)

Travel Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS)

Trustaff Allied

Irvine, KY • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Trustaff Allied is seeking a travel Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) for a travel job in Irvine, Kentucky.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS)
  • Discipline: Allied Health Professional
  • Start Date: 06/22/2026
  • Duration: 12 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 8 hours
  • Employment Type: Travel

As a Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS), you'll process lab tests and monitor testing quality. The information you provide will be a critical factor in determining how the physician proceeds with the patient's plan of care. Clinical Lab Scientists must be able to identify infections agents, analyze blood and fluid samples, measure antibodies, and assess the quality of samples.

Trustaff Allied Job ID #1358143. Pay package is based on 8 hour shifts and 40 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: Clinical Lab Scientist

About Trustaff Allied

Our traveler-first attitude has set us apart from other travel healthcare agencies

 

When you join the Trustaff family, you’re more than just a body filling a role—you're a vibrant individual with dreams and aspirations. As one of the nation's leading travel healthcare companies, your recruiter will work with you one-on-one to guide your career and help you achieve your goals.

  • You decide when and where you want to work
  • Enjoy industry-leading pay, benefits, and bonuses
  • Experience new people and places
  • Grow your clinical skills and expand your experience


Travel healthcare lets you take your professional career to the next level while maintaining your flexibility and freedom. At Trustaff, we put you first, so you never have to compromise your work or pay.

We are proud to have one of the highest nurse retention rates in the country. Some of the other reasons people choose us include:

  • Priority access to thousands of travel healthcare jobs
  • Industry-leading pay
  • Guaranteed weekly hours
  • Experienced recruiters
  • Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision
  • 401k with employer match
  • Assistance with travel, compliance, and housing
  • Great bonuses for completions, referring friends, and more


Benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Medical benefits
  • Vision benefits
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Referral bonus