Clinical Laboratory Scientist Lead

Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Clinical Lab Scientist, you will be a critical diagnostic expert, performing complex laboratory tests to ensure accurate, timely results vital for patient diagnosis and treatment.

Every day, you will execute a wide range of analytical procedures across various lab disciplines (hematology, chemistry, microbiology, etc.). You'll analyze specimens, operate/maintain instruments, interpret results, and conduct quality control, providing crucial data for clinical decisions.

To be successful in this role, you must demonstrate a strong scientific foundation, advanced technical proficiency, exceptional problem-solving skills, and meticulous attention to detail. Your paramount commitment will be to accuracy and regulatory adherence.

• Performs approved laboratory procedures utilizing a diverse variety of laboratory techniques and instrumentation with an appropriate level of accuracy, precision, timeliness, and documentation measurable by: Performance improvement monitoring, Audit trails and transaction analysis of information and instrument systems, Documentation review and compliance checking, Compliance with instrument maintenance and test performance checks. Compliance with transfusion services policies and procedures.

• Manages department quality control program in each section of the laboratory depending upon assignment. Performs proficiency testing and provides data for performance improvement program. Demonstrates ability to: Recognizes, corrects and documents quality control outlays. Validates instrument performance and quality control results before patient results are reported. Score 90% or above on all proficiency testing challenges. Maintain quality control records to a level of 100% compliance.

• Demonstrates the ability to comply with regulatory agency standards and established policies and procedures for safe practice. Completes annual CME requirements in a timely manner.

• Consults with peers, staff, pathologists, physicians and other laboratory services users providing accurate, timely responses using good oral, written and electronic communication processes. Recognizes critical values, life threatening laboratory results, inconsistencies, errors and instrument malfunctions and takes appropriate, timely corrective action. Recognizes specimen requirements and results interpretation criteria for neonates, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients. Performance is characterized by: Accuracy and timeliness and is comprehensive requiring little supervision to complete routine types of transactions, Appropriate referral to supervisor, manager or medical director with complete documentation, audit trail and preliminary problem solving completed, Demonstrated ability to utilize information resources available, scientific literature and department documentation to provide consultative information and problem solving activities.

• Demonstrates initiative, flexibility and cooperatives in the performance of duties and acceptance of routine assignments, special assignments or new duties characterized by: Satisfaction level of supervisor that meets standards of performance, Performance demonstrates improvement in identified areas on performance reviews or after recommendations, Performance demonstrates incorporation of new skills, procedures technology or knowledge on an ongoing basis.

• Communication and interpersonal skills are appropriately applied and characterize performance which is: Responsive to the needs of the staff and users, Professional in scope, depth and content, Results in a high level of satisfaction from supervisors and service users.

Job Requirements

• 3+ years bench experience is required, with some supervisory experience helpful.

• Masters degree in relevant Lab Science or in management desirable OR equivalent work experience for academic requirements.

• Current State of CA license as a Clinical Lab Scientist is required.

• ASCP registration or equivalent

Where You'll Work

Founded in 1923, Dignity Health - St. Mary Medical Center is a 389-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in Long Beach, California. Serving over 50,000 patients annually, the hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level II Trauma Center, Level III NICU, heart care, and orthopedics.

Additionally, St. Mary Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. It is a Joint Commission-certified Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center and was named as a 2024-2025 High Performing Hospital for Heart Attacks by U.S. News & World Report. The hospital shares a legacy of humankindness with Dignity Health, one of the nation’s five largest health care systems. Visit for more information.

Pay Range

$54.52 - $81.10 /hour

We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.