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Pre Analytical Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Analytical Lab Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22.32 - $28.90/hr

Monitor inventory levels and expiration dates to prevent shortages * Assist with pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes * Support laboratory operations including media/buffer ...

Monitor inventory levels and expiration dates to prevent shortages * Assist with pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes * Support laboratory operations including media/buffer ...

Analytical Lab Assistant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22.32 - $28.90/hr

Monitor inventory levels and expiration dates to prevent shortages * Assist with pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes * Support laboratory operations including media/buffer ...

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Pre Analytical information

What is a pre analytical role?

Pre Analytical roles refer to the processes and tasks that occur before laboratory analysis of samples. This includes specimen collection, labeling, transportation, handling, and processing to ensure the integrity and accuracy of laboratory results. Professionals in these roles often work as phlebotomists, laboratory assistants, or specimen processors, and are critical for minimizing errors that could affect test outcomes. Proper pre-analytical procedures help maintain sample quality and patient safety throughout the diagnostic process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pre analytical technician?

To thrive as a Pre-Analytical Technician, you need a solid understanding of specimen collection, labeling, handling protocols, and adherence to safety standards, usually supported by a high school diploma and relevant training. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), barcode scanners, and phlebotomy equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and efficiency in specimen processing. These skills are essential for maintaining sample integrity, minimizing errors, and supporting accurate laboratory diagnostics.

What are some common challenges faced in a pre analytical role and how can they be effectively managed?

In a Pre Analytical role, common challenges include ensuring accurate specimen labeling, maintaining proper sample handling and storage conditions, and managing time-sensitive logistics. These tasks require strong attention to detail, adherence to protocols, and effective communication with clinical staff to avoid errors that can impact test results. Proactively addressing these challenges involves continuous training, clear documentation, and using checklists or digital systems to track specimens throughout the process.

What is the difference between Pre Analytical vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectPre AnalyticalLaboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentPreparation area, handling specimens, data entryLaboratory setting, performing tests and procedures
Job FocusSpecimen collection, labeling, and preparationConducting laboratory tests and analyzing samples
Industry UsageHealthcare, clinical labs, hospitalsHealthcare, clinical labs, research facilities

Pre Analytical professionals focus on specimen collection and preparation, ensuring samples are ready for testing. Laboratory Technicians perform the actual testing and analysis of samples. Both roles are essential in the laboratory workflow but differ in responsibilities and focus areas.

What are the pre-analytical tasks?

Pre-analytical tasks in a laboratory setting involve preparing and handling specimens before analysis, including patient identification, proper sample collection, labeling, transportation, and initial processing. These steps are crucial to ensure accurate test results and often require adherence to protocols and quality control standards.

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

The most popular types of Pre Analytical jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Pre Analytical jobs in California?

For Pre Analytical jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Pre Analytical job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Pre-Analytical Assistant III

Quest Diagnostics

West Hills, CA • On-site

$20.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


ExamOne rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description


Pre-Analytical Assistant III - West Hills, CA, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Pay range: $23.10 - $26.50 / hour
Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Successful candidates may be eligible to receive annual performance bonus compensation.
Benefits information:
We are proud to offer best-in-class benefits and programs to support employees and their families in living healthy, happy lives. Our pay and benefit plans have been designed to promote employee health in all respects - physical, financial, and developmental. Depending on whether it is a part-time or full-time position, some of the benefits offered may include:
  • Day 1 Medical, supplemental health, dental & vision for FT employees who work 30+ hours
  • Best-in-class well-being programs
  • Annual, no-cost health assessment program Blueprint for Wellness®
  • healthyMINDS mental health program
  • Vacation and Health/Flex Time
  • 6 Holidays plus 1 "MyDay" off
  • FinFit financial coaching and services
  • 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth IRA with company match up to 5% after 12 months of service
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Life and disability insurance, plus buy-up option
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Annual incentive plans
  • Matching gifts program
  • Education assistance through MyQuest for Education
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • and so much more!

The Pre-Analytical Assistant III in the Tech Ops Department is responsible for knowing all of the functions of the Pre-Analytical Assistant II, plus additional functions.
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for all duties of the Pre-Analytical Assistant III; meets or exceeds productivity and quality standards for Pre-Analytical Assistant I and II tasks [when required]; able to recognize and solve more complex problems on a routine basis.
  • Demonstrates a basic understanding of how Specimen Processing and Tech Ops impact testing departments and result quality.
  • Demonstrates proficiency and understanding of all job duties and SOP's related to the Tech Ops department.
  • Demonstrates knowledge and an understanding of what resources are available and is able to fill in for any function within the Tech Ops department as necessary.
  • Identifies problems with specimen types vs test orders, missing information, improperly positioned bar code labels, with regard to all work processes within Tech Ops.
  • With experience and training, is able to perform basic trouble shooting and resolve problems with automated equipment operation.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of compliance policies related to test ordering, which requires developing ability to research test ordering information on translation tables, computer system, and the directory of services.
  • Understands complex relationship between test(s) ordered and specimen(s) received.
  • Completes all required written documentation such that it is understandable to others, legible and within the assigned time frame.
  • Meets quality and productivity standards within 3 months of completing training
  • Validates and verifies test orders as needed.
  • Trains employees in Tech Ops job functions and may provide on-going training.
  • Performs result entry as required for TIQ/TNP resolution.
  • Adheres to all Quest Diagnostics policies and procedures, including Safety and Compliance.
  • Other duties as assigned. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities, but rather a general description of work performed by the position.
  • The Pre-Analytical Assistant III is involved in more complex tasks and responsibilities including but not limited to:
    • Pending Review and Problem Resolution.
    • Automated sortation and aliquoting instrument operation.
  • The Pre-Analytical Assistant III has mastered all duties of the Pre-Analytical Assistant II, and is able to efficiently and effectively work in a self-directed fashion. The person in this position typically has additional responsibilities such as:
    • Possible customer communications
    • Internal training
    • Problem-solving related to special accounts and compliance-related issues
    • Pending review and resolution
    • Operation of automated equipment
    • Within 1 year of hire, proficient in processing electronic orders.

Qualifications
Required Work Experience:
Must have at least 3 years experience in a laboratory environment or a production setting.
Knowledge:
Medical background preferred which includes medical terminology applicable to a clinical laboratory.
Skills:
Minimal data entry skills
Education
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (Required)

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for Employment in accordance with the following laws if applicable, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the California Fair Chance Act.
Quest believes that conviction records may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship to the following job duties: accessing company property, information, assets, and products including sensitive information; accessing customer data or confidential information, and partnering and regularly working with or supervising other Quest employees and interacting with Quest customers.
About the Team
Quest Diagnostics honors our service members and encourages veterans to apply.
While we appreciate and value our staffing partners, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Quest will not be responsible for paying agency fees for any individual as to whom an agency has sent an unsolicited resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets or any other legally protected status.

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