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Cls Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Cls Trainee information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do cls trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 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.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist (ESC) - Blood Bank

Salinas Valley Health

Salinas, CA • On-site

$58.06 - $69.88/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Salinas Valley Health rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.
Department:
Laboratory
The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) works under the supervision of the Section Supervisor or Lead. Under General supervision, contributes to the quality of patient diagnosis and treatment by performing technical and complex laboratory analysis in one or more sections of the Laboratory. Recognizes deviations from expected results, analyzes problems and modifies procedures to eliminate technical problems. Serves as a resource person for other hospital staff by answering questions and solving problems for peers and others. May be asked to assume the responsibility of a Section Supervisor or Lead in their absence. Performs other laboratory duties as assigned.
  • Assists physicians in the diagnosis of disease and treatment of patients by performing technical and complex laboratory tests, following established laboratory procedures. May work in more than one of the following areas: Chemistry, Bench Chemistry, Blood Bank, Hematology, Histology, Microbiology, Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Urinalysis.
  • Performs quality control procedures and documents the test results.
  • Takes appropriate actions to correct out of control results and documents the actions taken.
  • Serves as a resource for others: answers questions, resolves technical irregularities, and correlates new procedures.
  • May be asked to supervise personnel and technical operations in a laboratory section in the absence of an on-site supervisor or Lead.
  • Performs instrument checks and preventative maintenance on laboratory instruments and makes minor repairs if needed. Documents all work performed and actions taken.
  • Reports normal and abnormal test results as established by Pathology and Hospital procedures.
  • Uses the Laboratory computers to edit, inquire, receive specimens, enter test results, and print results.
  • Receives patient specimens and prepares them for analysis; also collects certain specimens.
  • Adheres to the established Hospital safety standards by following safety procedures and reports any unsafe conditions immediately to the supervisor or department head.
  • Applies the Hospital's Policies and Procedures regarding guest relations.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Education: Work requires knowledge generally acquired through a Baccalaureate Degree in Medical Technology, Chemistry, Biology or equivalent.
Licensure: A California Clinical Laboratory Scientist License/ASCP required. Current BLS/Healthcare status as per American heart Association standards preferred.
Experience: At least one year of experience as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist or Trainee is required. Experience must be within the last five years.
Pay Range: The hourly rate for this position is $58.06 - $69.88 The range displayed on this job posting reflects the target for new hire salaries for this position.
Job Specifications:
• Union: ESC
• Work Shift: Variable
• FTE: 1.0
• Scheduled Hours: 40
If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

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