Entry Level Lab Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lighthouse Lab Services is currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated Clinical Lab Scientist / Quality Assurance Coordinator to join a dynamic clinical laboratory team in Richmond, CA. This is a long-term contract opportunity expected to last at least 1 year, with a strong likelihood of extension and potential opportunity for permanent hire based on performance and business needs. This role offers an exciting opportunity to support laboratory quality systems, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence within a fast-paced clinical laboratory environment. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in clinical laboratory operations, quality assurance, and regulatory standards, along with an active California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) or CGMBS license.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and support the laboratory Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) programs
• Monitor laboratory compliance with CLIA, CAP, state, and other regulatory requirements
• Review quality metrics, incident reports, proficiency testing, and corrective action documentation
• Assist with internal audits, inspections, and preparation for regulatory surveys
• Maintain and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), policies, and quality documentation
• Investigate non-conformances, quality events, and deviations, and assist with corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
• Collaborate with laboratory leadership to identify process improvement opportunities and maintain quality standards
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation of QA activities and laboratory records
• Support staff training, competency assessments, and quality education initiatives
• Assist with validation and implementation of new laboratory procedures, instruments, and workflows
• Provide bench support or technical assistance as needed in chemistry, molecular, or mass spectrometry workflows

Qualifications

• Active and valid California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) or CGMBS license required
• Bachelor's degree in Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field
• Previous experience in laboratory quality assurance, quality control, or clinical laboratory operations preferred
• Experience in Mass Spec, Chemistry, and/or Molecular testing within a clinical laboratory setting strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of CLIA, CAP, and laboratory regulatory requirements
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and documentation abilities
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionally
• Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) and electronic medical records (EMR) preferred
• Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and adhering to ethical laboratory standards

Contract Details & Benefits

• Long-term contract assignment expected to run a minimum of 12 months
• High likelihood of extension beyond the initial contract term
• Potential opportunity for permanent conversion based on performance and organizational needs
• Day shift (Tuesday–Saturday)
• $65–$75/hr based on experience level
• 401(k) + 4% company match
• Insurance coverage (health, vision, dental)
• Paid sick leave

About us:
At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 21 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 | https://www.lighthouselabservices.com/

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