1

Clinical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Clinical Laboratory Scientist Under supervision, performs pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of all testing with speed and accuracy as authorized under California State Business ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Clinical Laboratory Scientist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$44.3K

$98.5K

$159.6K

How much do clinical laboratory scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for clinical laboratory scientist in Riverside, CA is $98,505.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,600.00 and $124,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical laboratory scientist?

Clinical laboratory scientists, also known as medical laboratory scientists or medical technologists, are healthcare professionals who perform laboratory tests on patient samples, such as blood, urine, and tissue. Their work helps diagnose, monitor, and treat diseases by providing accurate and timely test results to physicians. They are trained in various laboratory techniques, quality control, and the use of sophisticated equipment. Clinical laboratory scientists play a vital role in patient care by ensuring reliable laboratory data for medical decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical laboratory scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory science, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field and professional certification (such as ASCP). Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), advanced diagnostic equipment, and quality control protocols is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate test results, patient safety, and efficient clinical workflows in healthcare environments.

What are some common challenges clinical laboratory scientists face when working with rapidly evolving diagnostic technologies?

Clinical Laboratory Scientists often encounter the challenge of continuously adapting to new diagnostic instruments, software, and testing methodologies. Staying current requires regular training and a willingness to learn, as labs frequently implement new equipment and protocols to improve accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, integrating these technologies into existing workflows while maintaining high standards of quality control can be demanding. Collaborating closely with technical support teams and participating in ongoing education helps Clinical Laboratory Scientists remain effective and confident in their roles.

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

AspectClinical Laboratory ScientistMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in medical technology or related field, certification (e.g., ASCP)Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology, certification (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilitiesHospitals, clinics, smaller labs
Job RolePerform complex lab tests, analyze results, oversee testing proceduresPrepare specimens, perform routine tests, assist CLS

Clinical Laboratory Scientists and Medical Laboratory Technicians both work in laboratory settings, but CLSs typically have higher education requirements and perform more complex testing and analysis. MLTs support CLSs by handling routine tasks. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much money does a clinical laboratory scientist make?

A clinical laboratory scientist typically earns a median annual salary of around $55,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand areas or healthcare settings with higher pay scales.

Is becoming a clinical laboratory scientist worth it?

A clinical laboratory scientist performs diagnostic testing in healthcare settings, requiring a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field and certification. The role offers stable employment, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization, making it a valuable career choice for those interested in healthcare and laboratory work.

Is it hard to become a clinical laboratory scientist?

Becoming a clinical laboratory scientist typically requires completing a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field, followed by certification or licensing depending on the region. The process involves acquiring technical skills, passing exams, and gaining laboratory experience, which can take several years of education and training.

What do you do as a clinical laboratory scientist?

A clinical laboratory scientist performs laboratory tests on blood, tissue, and other specimens to help diagnose, treat, and monitor diseases. They operate complex 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 are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Clinical Laboratory Scientist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Clinical Laboratory Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Laboratory Scientist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, 50% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,505 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

$72K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Make a difference where it matters most! Join the Indian Health Service as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist providing vital, life-saving diagnostics to
American Indian communities. Advance your career, enjoy competitive benefits, and be part of a mission that transforms lives every day. Apply
today!
A REAL ID will be required beginning May 7, 2025, in accordance with 6 C.F.R. 37.5 (2021).Qualifications:To qualify for this position, your resume must state sufficient experience and/or education, to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are applying.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer and part time experience. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
BASIC REQUIREMENT(S):
Education:
A. A Bachelor's or graduate/higher level degree from a regionally accredited college/university including courses in biological science, chemistry and mathematics, AND successful completion of a Medical Laboratory Scientist/Clinical Laboratory Scientist program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education at the time the degree was obtained.
OR
B.
A full 4-year course of study that included 12 months in a college or hospital-based medical technology program or medical technology school approved by a recognized accrediting organization. The professional medical technology curriculum may have consisted of a 1-year post- bachelor's certificate program or the last 1 or 2 years of a 4-year program of study culminating in a bachelor's in medical technology.
OR
C. A Bachelor's or graduate/higher level degree from an accredited college/university, including 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of biological science (with one semester in microbiology), 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) of chemistry (with one semester in organic or biochemistry), one semester (one quarter) of mathematics, AND five (5) years of full time acceptable clinical laboratory experience in Blood Banking, Chemistry, Hematology, microbiology, Immunology and Urinalysis/Body Fluids.
In addition to the Basic Requirements, you must also meet the Minimum Qualifications stated below.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
GS-07: One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-05 grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector performing the following type of work and/or tasks: conducting standardized clinical laboratory testing in areas such as chemistry, hematology, microbiology, urinalysis, serology, and immunology using established procedures; collecting and preparing patient specimens for routine analysis; operating, calibrating, and maintaining laboratory instruments and equipment; preparing reagents and quality control materials; recognizing abnormal findings or testing discrepancies and reporting issues to supervisory or professional staff; and performing quality control, maintaining laboratory records, and following biosafety, infection control, and accreditation requirements.
OR
Completion of one (1) year of graduate-level education from an accredited college or university in clinical laboratory science/medical technology, a discipline or specialized area of medical technology, or a field directly related and applicable to medical technology or the position to be filled.
OR
A combination of graduate education and specialized experience that, when combined, meet the minimum qualifications as described above for the GS-07 grade level.
OR
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in clinical laboratory science/medical technology, a discipline or specialized area of medical technology, or a directly related field applicable to the position. Applicants must also meet one of the following Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) requirements: (1) a cumulative GPA of 2.95 or higher on a 4.0 scale; (2) a GPA of 3.45 or higher in the major field of study or during the last two years of undergraduate study; (3) graduation in the top third of the graduating class; or (4) membership in a national scholastic honor society recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies.
GS-09: One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector performing the following type of work and/or tasks: conducting laboratory testing in areas such as chemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology, urinalysis, molecular diagnostics, and immunohematology using established laboratory procedures; evaluating specimen suitability and preparing specimens for analysis; operating, calibrating, standardizing, troubleshooting, and maintaining laboratory instrumentation; preparing reagents, controls, and reference materials and verifying equipment performance; recognizing abnormal or unusual results, identifying instrument malfunctions, implementing corrective actions, validating test data, and consulting with supervisory staff regarding significant findings or quality control issues; and performing quality control activities while maintaining compliance with biosafety, infection control, accreditation, and laboratory regulatory requirements.
OR
Completion of 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree, or a master's or equivalent graduate degree, from an accredited college or university in clinical laboratory science/medical technology, a discipline or specialized area of medical technology, or a field directly related and applicable to medical technology or the position to be filled.
OR
A combination of graduate education and specialized experience that, when combined, meet the minimum qualifications as described above for the GS-09 grade level. Only graduate education in excess of the first 18 semester hours may be used in combination with specialized experience.
GS-11: One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector performing the following type of work and/or tasks: conducting and evaluating complex clinical laboratory testing in areas such as chemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology, molecular diagnostics, and immunohematology using established and adapted methodologies; interpreting test data, evaluating abnormal or unexpected findings, independently troubleshooting testing discrepancies, and implementing corrective actions to ensure accurate laboratory results; calibrating, standardizing, troubleshooting, and maintaining laboratory instrumentation; resolving specimen handling issues and preparing specimens for specialized testing; and performing quality control, supporting proficiency testing and accreditation activities, and ensuring compliance with laboratory safety, infection control, and regulatory standards.
OR
Completion of 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree, or a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree, from an accredited college or university in clinical laboratory science/medical technology, a discipline or specialized area of medical technology, or a field directly related and applicable to medical technology or the position to be filled.
OR
A combination of graduate education and specialized experience that, when combined, meet the minimum qualifications as described above for the GS-11 grade level. Only graduate education in excess of the first 36 semester hours may be used in combination with specialized experience.
Time In Grade
Federal employees in the competitive service are also subject to the Time-In-Grade Requirements: Merit Promotion (status) candidates must have completed one year of service at the next lower grade level. Time-In-Grade provisions do not apply under the Excepted Service Examining Plan (ESEP).
You must meet all qualification requirements by the respective cutoff day of rating to be eligible for consideration. Education:This position has an education requirement. You are strongly encouraged to submit a copy of your transcripts or a list of your courses including titles, credit hours completed, and grades. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. Official transcripts will be required from all selectees prior to receiving an official offer.
Only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education may be credited. Applicants can verify accreditation at the following website: https://www.ed.gov/accreditation.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER