Clinical Chemistry Scientist

Department of Public Health; Ontario (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Public Health seeks a Clinical Chemistry Scientist to lead scientific research and clinical testing projects within a CLIA‑certified laboratory, focusing on newborn screening and genetic disorders. You will ensure QA adherence and operate under senior laboratory leadership.

The role requires licensing as a California Clinical Chemist, CLS (Generalist), or Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist, with strong biochemistry expertise and effective communication in a

Qualifications

• Hold a valid license as a California Clinical Chemist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Generalist), or a Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist.
• Experience in scientific research with a primary focus on biochemistry.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; adaptable to a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and conduct scientific research and clinical testing projects of moderate scope and complexity.
• Ensure testing activities in the CLIA-certified genetic screening laboratory comply with established QA protocols.
• Perform testing on dried blood spot, serum, plasma, and whole blood from newborns to detect genetic disorders.
• Work under the supervision of the Research Scientist Supervisor, Technical/General Supervisor and CLIA Laboratory Director in accordance with established guidelines.

Skills

Biochemistry

Interpersonal skills

Written & verbal communication

Team-oriented

Adaptable

Fast-paced environment

Organized

Job description

Job Description and Duties

The mission of GDSP is “to serve the people of California by reducing the emotional and financial burden of disability and death caused by genetic and congenital disorders” in support of CDPH’s mission “to advance the health and well‑being of California’s diverse people and communities.”

This position supports the California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) mission and strategic plan by serving as a Clinical Chemistry Scientist that is responsible for planning, organizing, and conducting scientific research and clinical testing projects of moderate scientific scope and complexity. The role ensures that testing activities within the Technical/General Supervisor Section of the high‑complexity Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certified genetic screening laboratory are conducted in compliance with established quality assurance protocols. Testing is performed on dried blood spot, serum, plasma, and whole blood specimens from newborns to detect genetic disorders.

The incumbent works under the supervision of the Research Scientist Supervisor, Technical/General Supervisor and CLIA Laboratory Director and performs duties in accordance with established guidelines and procedures.

The incumbent will be required at the time of appointment to:

• Hold a valid license as a California Clinical Chemist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Generalist), or a Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience in scientific research discipline, primary focus on biochemistry.
• A strong work ethic, good interpersonal, and team‑oriented skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Adaptable and flexible to constant changes.
• The ability to work in a fast‑paced work environment.
• Well‑organized and have a positive attitude and professional demeanor.