Clinical Laboratory Scientist

The Bowdoin Group; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bowdoin Group is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) II in Daly City, CA. This role focuses on overseeing clinical laboratory technicians and ensuring compliance with CLIA regulations while performing high-complexity molecular testing.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in a relevant science, possess a current CA CLS License, and have over three years of experience in a molecular laboratory setting.

Join a company advancing women’s health through innovative diagnostic testing and be part of a rapidly growing organization.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of CLS experience in a molecular and/or high-complexity laboratory.
• Self-starter and dynamic team player with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Flexibility to work overtime or other shifts depending on business needs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee clinical laboratory technicians and support day-to-day operations.
• Perform specimen handling, processing, testing, and documentation.
• Monitor test systems for deviations and ensure timely corrective actions.

Skills

Molecular techniques

Nucleic acid extraction

PCR

NGS

Liquid-handling automation

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemical, physical, or biological science

Current CA CLS Generalist or CGMBS License

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

Job description

Our client, a leading diagnostics company, is focused on advancing women’s health through next-generation molecular diagnostic testing. They are building a state-of-the-art CLIA certified molecular laboratory that integrates advanced automation, digital LIMS platforms, and data-driven quality systems to deliver accurate, efficient, and scalable testing.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) II

Title: Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) II

Location: Daly City, CA

Reports to: Sr. Director, Laboratory Operations

Department: CLIA Lab Operations

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm

About This Opportunity

As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) III, you will perform high-complexity molecular testing while helping to establish and sustain the client’s CLIA laboratory operations. This is a unique opportunity to join the ground floor of a rapidly growing organization and play a critical role in daily lab operations, cross-functional collaboration, and laboratory build-out activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee clinical laboratory technicians and support day-to-day operations, scheduling, and troubleshooting (in accordance with CLIA and state regulations).
• Perform specimen handling, processing, testing, and documentation in accordance with SOPs and CLIA and state regulations.
• Monitor test systems for deviations and ensure timely corrective actions and documentation.
• In preparation for CLIA certification, may assume General Supervisor responsibilities, as delegated by lab leadership.
• Assist with assay validation and technology transfer for new molecular assays and instruments.
• Contribute to quality control and assurance activities to maintain data integrity and regulatory readiness.
• Participate in drafting and reviewing SOPs and quality documentation.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, and Project Management teams to ensure efficient laboratory operations and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate calibration and maintenance of laboratory instruments; prepare reagents and track performance documentation.
• Conduct reagent qualification, lot-to-lot verification, and maintain traceability and quality documentation.
• Train and assess competency of laboratory personnel; may act as designee in the absence of supervisor.
• Participate in lab build-out planning, workflow optimization, and automation integration.
• Maintain appropriate lab supplies and inventory.
• Maintain a safe work environment, adhering to PPE and safety protocols.
• Participate in continuing education.
• May perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical, physical, or biological science, or equivalent that meets CLIA & CA requirements.
• Current CA CLS Generalist or CGMBS License required.
• 3+ years of CLS experience in a molecular and/or high-complexity laboratory.
• Hands-on experience with molecular techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and NGS.
• Familiarity with liquid-handling automation.
• Self-starter and dynamic team player with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, startup environment.
• High attention to detail with strong communication and organizational skills.
• Must pass a standardized color vision screen.
• Flexibility to work overtime or other shifts depending on business needs.
• Experience with Microsoft Office 365.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a startup lab environment.
• Experience with CLIA, CAP, and state inspections, including audit preparation and compliance support.
• Experience working with a broad set of laboratory instruments.
• Knowledge of Kaizen or Lean principles for continuous improvement.
• Proven ability to train and mentor technical staff.