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Cls Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stanford Health Care

CLS Trainee SFSU

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

A Brief Overview The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) trainee participates in a one-year rotational program across laboratory departments, which include but not limited to medical microbiology ...

HENRY MAYO NEWHALL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Additionally, the CLS trainee intern operates and maintains equipment, performs and evaluates quality control, discusses and reviews patient's results without sending patient results. This position ...

New

Palomar Health

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA · On-site

CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set ...

Palomar Health

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA

CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set ...

Palomar Health

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA · On-site

CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set ...

Palomar Health

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA · On-site

CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set ...

Palomar Health

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA · On-site

CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set ...

Palomar Health

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA · On-site

CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set ...

Palomar Health

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA · On-site

CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set ...

Palomar Health

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA · On-site

CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set ...

Prime Healthcare

Clinical Lab Director

Victorville, CA

$108K - $178K/yr

CLS Trainee license is not acceptable. * Minimum 5 years supervisory clinical laboratory experience required. * LEAN Six Sigma certification preferred * Master's Degree preferred. #LI-TP3 Desert ...

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All JobsCls JobsCls Trainee JobsCls Trainee Jobs in California

Cls Trainee information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do cls trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for cls trainee in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CLS trainee?

A CLS Trainee is an individual undergoing training to become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS). This role typically involves working under the supervision of licensed professionals to learn laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and diagnostic testing. CLS Trainees gain hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and develop the skills necessary to analyze biological samples. Upon successful completion of the training program and passing required exams, trainees can become certified CLS professionals.

What tasks and responsibilities can I expect as a CLS trainee during my training period?

As a CLS (Clinical Laboratory Scientist) Trainee, you will typically rotate through various sections of the laboratory, such as hematology, microbiology, chemistry, and blood banking. Your daily tasks may include learning to operate specialized lab equipment, performing sample analyses under supervision, documenting results, and adhering to strict safety and quality control protocols. You will work closely with experienced CLS professionals and laboratory supervisors, gaining hands-on experience while gradually taking on more complex responsibilities. This structured training is designed to prepare you for independent practice and eligibility for certification exams, fostering both technical expertise and teamwork skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CLS trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CLS Trainee (Clinical Laboratory Scientist Trainee), you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, and laboratory procedures, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related science field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), microscopes, and molecular diagnostic equipment is commonly required, along with compliance training in safety and quality standards. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help trainees accurately process samples and report findings. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate diagnostic results and maintaining high standards of patient care in clinical laboratory environments.

What is the difference between Cls Trainee vs Cls Technician?

AspectCls TraineeCls Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; training programs providedRequires certification or diploma in clinical laboratory science or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised by experienced staffIndependent work in laboratories, performing tests and analyses
Employer & IndustryHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs during trainingDiagnostic labs, hospitals, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared during career planning or entry-level job searchesCompared for career advancement or certification purposes

The main difference between a Cls Trainee and a Cls Technician is that the trainee is in a learning phase, often undergoing supervised training, while the technician is a qualified professional performing laboratory tests independently. The trainee focuses on gaining skills, whereas the technician applies those skills in a work setting.

How difficult is it to get into a clinical laboratory scientist trainee program?

Getting into a CLS Trainee program can be competitive, often requiring a relevant bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field, along with strong academic performance. Some programs also prefer candidates with certification or laboratory experience, and prerequisites may include coursework in microbiology, hematology, and chemistry.

How many years does it take to be a clinical laboratory scientist trainee?

Becoming a clinical laboratory scientist (CLS) trainee typically requires completing a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field, which generally takes four years. Afterward, trainees often undergo a certification or licensing process that may include additional supervised work or training hours, usually lasting several months to a year, depending on the program and state requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cls jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cls jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cls Trainee jobs in California?

For Cls Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cls Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cls Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cls Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cls Trainee job openings:

Cls Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cls Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

CLS Trainee SFSU

Stanford Health Care

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

If you're ready to be part of our legacy of hope and innovation, we encourage you to take the first step and explore our current job openings. Your best is waiting to be discovered.
Day - 08 Hour (United States of America)
This is a Stanford Health Care job.
A Brief Overview
The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) trainee participates in a one-year rotational program across laboratory departments, which include but not limited to medical microbiology, clinical chemistry, transfusion medicine, urinalysis, hematology, and coagulation. The training provides students with the necessary technical, critical thinking, and practical skills to excel as a laboratory professional within the healthcare system. In partnership with approved National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS) affiliated universities, CLS trainees will also take didactic courses throughout the year. At the end of their rotation, CLS trainees will prepare and take the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) National Certification exam in Medical Laboratory Science and obtain their CA CLS licensure.
Locations
Stanford Health Care
What you will do
  • The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
  • Employees must abide by all Joint Commission Requirements including but not limited to sensitivity to cultural diversity, patient care, patients' rights and ethical treatment, safety and security of physical environments, emergency management, teamwork, respect for others, participation in ongoing education and training, communication and adherence to safety and quality programs, sustaining compliance with National Patient Safety Goals, and licensure and health screenings.
  • Must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Service Standards of the Hospital(s).
  • Core Activities:
  • The internship provides instruction where the trainee will satisfactorily complete assignments, unknowns, assessments as they rotate through lab departments
  • Acquire techniques to perform diagnostic procedures and operate sophisticated instrumentation
  • Learn theories and principles of laboratory medicine to connect the clinically significant of laboratory procedures to patient diagnosis and treatment.
  • Develop skills in communication, problem solving, quality assurance, method validation, research and management related to clinical laboratory practices.
  • Engage in different dynamic environments, thereby further developing professional behaviors to not only work individually but also contribute as a team player.

Education Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree with specific course requirements:
    o 16 semester or equivalent quarter units of chemistry, which must include clinical chemistry OR analytical and biochemistry.
    o 18 semester or equivalent quarter units of biology, which must include hematology, immunology, and medical microbiology.
    o 3 semester or equivalent quarter units of physics (light and electricity)
  • Accepted into an affiliated NAACLS approved University CLS Program

Experience Qualifications
  • Previous laboratory experience Preferred

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledgeable in the theory and application of hematology, hemostasis, urinalysis, parasitology, mycology, virology, clinical chemistry, serology, immunohematology, microbiology, molecular pathology, cytogenetics, point of care, flow cytometry, biochemical genetics, human leukocyte antigen (HLA).
  • Interpret the clinical significance of laboratory assays and test results
  • Ability to troubleshoot a variety of automated laboratory instruments and laboratory information systems.
  • Behave professionally by attending scheduled work on time, showing initiative, and actively participating in learning work opportunities, interact cooperatively and respectfully with patients, instructors, fellow students, and other personnel.
  • Ability to assume responsibility and accountability for accurate and precise results without delay.

Licenses and Certifications
  • Valid California CLS trainee license

Physical Demands and Work Conditions
Blood Borne Pathogens
  • Category II - Tasks that involve NO exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues, but employment may require performing unplanned Category I tasks

These principles apply to ALL employees:
SHC Commitment to Providing an Exceptional Patient & Family Experience
Stanford Health Care sets a high standard for delivering value and an exceptional experience for our patients and families. Candidates for employment and existing employees must adopt and execute C-I-CARE standards for all of patients, families and towards each other. C-I-CARE is the foundation of Stanford's patient-experience and represents a framework for patient-centered interactions. Simply put, we do what it takes to enable and empower patients and families to focus on health, healing and recovery.
You will do this by executing against our three experience pillars, from the patient and family's perspective:
  • Know Me: Anticipate my needs and status to deliver effective care
  • Show Me the Way: Guide and prompt my actions to arrive at better outcomes and better health
  • Coordinate for Me: Own the complexity of my care through coordination

Equal Opportunity Employer Stanford Health Care (SHC) strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination in all of its policies and practices, including the area of employment. Accordingly, SHC does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity and/or expression, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability, or the perception of any of the above. People of all genders, members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized assessment of the conviction and the job requirements.
Base Pay Scale: Generally starting at $26.99 - $34.40 per hour
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. This pay scale is not a promise of a particular wage.

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