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Entry Level Clinical Laboratory Jobs in California

Actalent

Laboratory Assistant

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$21.85/hr

... clinical laboratory by receiving, processing, and accurately documenting patient specimens for testing and analysis. This entry-level position is ideal for individuals who are highly organized ...

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Entry Level Clinical Laboratory information

See California salary details

$15

$35

$69

How much do entry level clinical laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level clinical laboratory in California is $35.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.66 and $45.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level clinical laboratory job?

Entry level clinical laboratory jobs involve performing basic laboratory tests and procedures under the supervision of more experienced lab personnel. Individuals in these roles may prepare samples, operate laboratory equipment, record results, and assist in maintaining a clean and safe work environment. These positions are typically filled by recent graduates or those with minimal experience in the field, and can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced laboratory roles. Common job titles include clinical laboratory assistant, laboratory technician, or phlebotomist.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level clinical laboratory professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level clinical laboratory professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict protocols, managing a high volume of specimens, and ensuring accuracy under time constraints. It can take time to become comfortable with the variety of instruments and tests used daily. Building strong communication skills and seeking guidance from experienced colleagues can help overcome these challenges. Continuous learning and attention to detail are key to success and advancement in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level clinical laboratory technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Clinical Laboratory Technician, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and at least an associate degree in clinical laboratory science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and safety protocols is commonly required, and some positions may require certification such as ASCP or AMT. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills that help ensure accurate results and smooth workflow. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining laboratory accuracy, ensuring patient safety, and supporting healthcare teams in diagnosing and treating patients.

What is the difference between Entry Level Clinical Laboratory vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level Clinical LaboratoryMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; certification may be preferredAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with specimen collection, basic testing, data entryPerforming laboratory tests, analyzing samples, maintaining equipment
Industry UsageCommon entry point for clinical lab rolesStandard role in medical laboratories with more technical duties

Entry Level Clinical Laboratory roles typically serve as an entry point with basic responsibilities and minimal certification requirements. Medical Laboratory Technicians usually have more specialized training and certification, performing more complex tests. Both roles work in similar environments, but Medical Laboratory Technicians have a broader scope of technical duties.

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

The most popular types of Clinical Laboratory jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Clinical Laboratory jobs in California?

For Entry Level Clinical Laboratory jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Clinical Laboratory jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Clinical Laboratory jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Clinical Laboratory jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Clinical Laboratory job openings:

Entry Level Clinical Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Clinical Laboratory job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,400 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Lighthouse Lab Services

San Francisco, CA • Hybrid

$65 - $75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) – Whole Genome Sequencing

Location: San Francisco, CA
Pay: $65–$75/hour
Shift: M–F (8:30–4:00 or 10:30–7:00)

About the Role

Lighthouse Lab Services is working with a high-growth clinical genomics laboratory in San Francisco, CA who are launching a hybrid whole genome sequencing platform. We are seeking Clinical Laboratory Scientists to support clinical operations during scale-up. This is a hands-on bench role in a CLIA/CAP environment supporting high-complexity molecular testing and multi-platform sequencing workflows.

Responsibilities

  • Perform high-complexity molecular testing in a CLIA-regulated laboratory
  • Process, accession, and prepare clinical specimens
  • Execute NGS and hybrid whole genome sequencing workflows
  • Perform precise pipetting and sample preparation
  • Support multi-platform sequencing systems (Illumina, long-read technologies)
  • Maintain QC/QA compliance and regulatory standards
  • Support both clinical production and development workflows as needed

Requirements

  • Current CLS OR CGMBS license
  • Experience in a CLIA clinical laboratory setting
  • Strong molecular bench skills and pipetting accuracy
  • NGS or molecular diagnostics experience preferred
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, startup-style laboratory environment
  • Strong attention to detail and quality systems compliance

Preferred Experience

  • Whole genome sequencing experience
  • Familiarity with Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, PacBio, or similar platforms
  • Exposure to hybrid clinical and R&D laboratory environments preferred but not required

Salary

  • $65–$75/hour (based on experience)

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Flexible PTO
  • Opportunity to work in a rapidly scaling clinical genomics environment
  • Exposure to cutting-edge hybrid whole genome sequencing technology

About us:

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 19 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry-level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Lighthouse Lab Services is committed to working and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including persons with disabilities.

If at any time during the application process, you need an accommodation, please contact recruiting@lighthouselabservices.com for assistance.

Lighthouse Lab Services | 844-974-1929 | lighthouselabservices.com

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