Clinical Laboratory Scientist

CLS Connect; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 96,000; Full time

Job summary

CLS Connect in California is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Scientist to perform high-complexity molecular testing and contribute to the build-out of a CLIA laboratory. This onsite, full-time role requires a CA CLS license (Generalist or CGMBS) and offers a competitive hourly rate.

Responsibilities include routine molecular testing, reagent prep, equipment maintenance, and involvement in quality controls, SOPs, and cross-functional collaboration with R&D and Quality teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical, physical, or biological science meeting CLIA/CA requirements
• 2+ years of CLS experience in molecular/high-complexity lab
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and NGS
• Familiarity with liquid-handling automation
• Strong verbal and written communication; detail-oriented and organized

Responsibilities

• Perform routine molecular testing per SOPs and CLIA/state regulations
• Assist with daily lab operations: reagent prep, equipment maintenance, and basic troubleshooting
• Monitor test systems and document deviations; support corrective actions
• Support assay validation and tech transfer for new assays and instruments
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, and Project Management teams
• Participate in lab build-out planning and automation initiatives

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Detail-oriented

Team player

Independent work

Organizational skills

Molecular techniques

Nucleic acid extraction

Education

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

Tools

Liquid-handling automation

PCR instruments

NGS instruments

Job description

*** U.S. Residents Only -- No Sponsorship ***

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

California CLS license REQUIRED – Generalist or CGMBS

Full-Time, Direct-Hire, Onsite

Monday–Friday 8am–4:30pm

$60–$70/hour (based on exp)

About This Opportunity:

As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you will perform high-complexity molecular testing while helping to establish and sustain our 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 both daily operations and laboratory build-out activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform routine molecular testing and specimen processing in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and applicable CLIA and state regulations
• Assist with daily lab operations including reagent preparation, equipment maintenance, and basic troubleshooting.
• Monitor test systems and report deviations to senior staff; assist with documentation of corrective actions
• Support assay validation and tech transfer activities for new molecular assays and instruments under supervision
• May be delegated oversight of laboratory technologists as experience and competency develop
• Participate in quality control and quality assurance activities and maintain accurate records to support regulatory readiness
• Help draft and review SOPs and other lab documentation
• Conduct reagent qualification and lot-to-lot verification
• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, and Project Management teams to support lab workflows
• Participate in training and competency assessments of other technologists
• 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 bachelor's degree that meets local regulatory (CLIA & CA) requirements
• 2+ 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 skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, startup environment
• High level of attention to detail along 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 Office365

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.
• Familiarity with Kaizen or Lean principles for continuous improvement
• Proven ability to train technical staff