Clinical Laboratory Scientist Specialist, Per Diem

University of California, Santa Cruz; California (MO); On-site; USD 72,737 - 103,595; Part time

Job summary

University of California, Santa Cruz is seeking a Clinical Laboratory Scientist Specialist, Per Diem to support Student Health Services Laboratory. The role performs diagnostic testing across hematology, urine, microbiology, and glucose testing, with phlebotomy as needed, and utilizes the LIS and EMR systems for documentation and reporting.

The position is part‑time, 20% FTE, with a 6/30/2027 end date and potential extension.

Qualifications

• California CLS license required in good standing.
• CPR/First Aid/AED certification preferred or to be obtained within 60 days of hire.
• Ability to use LIS and EMR systems.
• Effective written communication with patients and staff.
• Ability to work in a per diem, part‑time lab environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform diagnostic tests in hematology, urinalysis, microbiology, and glucose testing.
• Conduct phlebotomy as needed to obtain samples.
• Maintain QA/QC, calibrations, and documentation for testing.
• Enter and verify results; review reports for accuracy.
• Maintain safe, clean lab and comply with safety standards.

Skills

Written communication

Oral communication

Flexibility

Organizational skills

Team collaboration

Patient communication

Education

California Clinical Laboratory Scientist License

CPR/First Aid/AED certification

Tools

LIS

EMR

Job description

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Student Health Services (SHS) Clinical Lab Manager and the SHS Lab Director, this Clinical Laboratory Scientist Specialist, Per Diem (CLS) serves as one of the clinical laboratory technologist specialists at UCSC Student Health Services. The CLS, Per Diem is responsible for maintaining biological sample testing services at the Student Health Services Laboratory and performs all diagnostic in‑house testing in hematology, urinalysis, microbiology, and whole blood glucose determination. The incumbent also performs phlebotomy as needed to obtain samples for testing and uses the in‑house practice management system and the laboratory information system (LIS).

Appointment Information

• Budgeted Salary: $64.00 hourly
• Benefits Level Eligibility: None
• Employee Classification: Per Diem appointment
• Job End Date: 06‑30‑2027, with the possibility of extension
• Union Representation: Residual Health Care Professionals (HX)
• Job Code Classification: 008959 ‑ CLIN LAB SCI SPEC PD
• Travel: Never or Rarely

Schedule Information

• Part‑time, Variable
• Percentage of Time: 20%, average shift 8 hours
• Days of the Week: Varies, lab is open Monday‑Friday
• Shift Includes: Day

Job Duties

• 70% – Diagnostic Testing
  • Independently performs clinical tests with proficiency.
  • Performs test calibrations and runs quality control material at appropriate intervals with proper documentation.
  • Reports any shifts or trends to a Clinical Laboratory Manager or Supervisor.
  • Determines the acceptability of specimens for testing according to established criteria.
  • Enters results accurately and checks review reports to monitor accurate reporting of laboratory results.
  • Monitors and performs necessary corrective measures for pending test results.
  • Performs and records proficiency testing accurately, promptly informing supervisor of any concerns.
  • Evaluates routine analysis before releasing patient reports, takes appropriate action for critical or unusual values, and documents the action taken.
• 25% – Lab Maintenance
  • Performs preventative maintenance and calibration of equipment, documenting actions taken.
  • Evaluates instrument performance checks, performs linearity, accuracy, and precision checks as required.
  • Identifies issues and initiates troubleshooting steps, contacting manufacturer or field service as needed and notifying supervisor.
  • Participates in introduction of new tests, procedures, and methodologies, including evaluation, validation, and interface issues.
  • Monitors and maintains a consistent supply of reagents and consumables, performs inventory to ensure no disruption in operations.
• 5% – Workplace Support
  • Maintains a safe and neat work area, mindful of universal precautions.
  • Maintains a cooperative working relationship with co‑workers, encouraging a collaborative team‑supporting environment.

Required Qualifications

• California Clinical Laboratory Scientist License in good standing
• Knowledge of laboratory health education guidelines and community practice
• Knowledge of proper safety and protective equipment, universal precautions, and blood‑borne pathogens
• Ability to work with the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and electronic medical record
• Written communication skills; ability to communicate clearly and effectively in writing with patients, colleagues, and staff
• Oral communication skills; excellent listening skills; ability to give clear, concise information and receive clear information
• Demonstrated flexibility and organizational skills to prioritize a high‑volume workload
• Ability to function in a positive, cooperative manner with management, supervisory staff, clinical and clerical staff, and patients
• Ability to contribute to a team effort, complete assignments in a timely and responsible manner

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing complete blood counts (CBC) and smear reviews
• Experience performing urinalysis, especially urine microscopy
• Experience performing molecular testing
• Experience and demonstrated ability to perform phlebotomy

Special Conditions of Employment

• Successful completion of a pre‑hire criminal history background check and a pre‑hire credentialing check
• Pass the employment misconduct disclosure process
• Must possess CPR/First Aid/AED certification or obtain it within 60 calendar days of hire
• Require a TB test within 60 days of hire
• Complete training within established time frames, including UC compliance training
• Complete HIPAA training within 30 days of hire
• Work all scheduled hours on‑site
• Work a variable schedule
• Maintain appearance and conduct suitable for a professional setting
• Wear proper safety attire (long pants, closed‑toe shoes, etc.) and personal protective equipment common in a laboratory setting
• Read signs and follow directions on labels written in English; read and understand MSDS and proper use of chemical compounds
• Comply with current Student Health Center employee health safety requirements for health care workers as defined by state and federal regulatory agencies
• Comply with the University of California vaccination policy
• Mandated reporter under the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA); required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect and sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse before commencing employment

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment must disclose any administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years indicating misconduct, allegations, or disciplinary proceedings. Misconduct is defined as violations of policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including but not limited to sexual harassment, sexual assault, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct as defined by UC policies. References to UC policies are available upon request.

Safety Statement

All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.

EEO/AA

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected category under UC policy. The University of California undertakes affirmative action and anti‑discrimination efforts consistent with its obligations as a federal and state contractor.