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Cls Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 Micro

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

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 Micro

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 ...

Prime Healthcare

Clinical Lab Director

Victorville, CA · On-site

$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 Pay ...

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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 Aug 28, 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 17% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Clin Lab Scientist I

Escondido, CA • On-site

Palomar Health

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers

Learn more about Palomar Healthexternal

Per diem

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Perform and demonstrate proficiency and understanding of procedures in one or more areas of the clinical laboratory. Prepares and ensures specimen acceptability and accuracy of results. Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment with proper documentation. Assist in training and orientation of new staff. Interact with internal and external customers in a professional and courteous manner. Speak and read English at a level that is sufficient to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the position. Knowledge of standard office equipment (i.e., calculator, fax, photocopier) and personal computer and computer software skills (i.e., MS Windows, Excel, Access, Word, Powerpoint, internet, e-mail). Windows computer skills including proficient use of keyboarding, use of mouse or keys for functions such as selecting items, use of drop down menus, scroll bars, opening folders, copying and similar operations required upon employment or within the 1st two weeks of employment to perform the essential functions of the job. Performs other duties as assigned. Follows Palomar Health rules, policies, procedures, applicable laws and standards. Carries out the mission, vision, and quality commitment of Palomar Health.
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 up at the Trainee level.Job Requirements
Minimum Education: As required by certification and/or licensure or CLS trainee awaiting successful licensure examination and issuancePreferred Education: Not ApplicableMinimum Experience: 0 - 6 monthsPreferred Experience: 1 - 2 yearsRequired Certification: Not ApplicablePreferred Certification: American Society Clinical Pathology (ASCP)Required License: MTA - CA Med Tech (CLS) or MTD - Clinical Immunohematologist or Current CLS CA Trainee License with CA CLS Licensure obtained within 90 days of hirePreferred License: Not ApplicableEmployment Type: Per Diem

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