Clin Lab Scientist I Micro
Palomar Health·Escondido, California
Palomar Health·Escondido, California
The role involves performing routine microbiology testing such as cultures, gram stains, rapid antigen testing, parasitology, and limited AFB, mycology, and PCR testing. Responsibilities also include ensuring specimen quality, calibrating equipment with documentation, and assisting in new staff orientation.
Working in microbiology performing routine cultures, gram stains, rapid antigen testing, parasitology and limited AFB, mycology and PCR testing.
Prepares and ensures specimen acceptability and accuracy of results.
Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment with proper documentation.
Assist in training and orientation of new staff.
Interact with internal and external customers in a professional and courteous manner.
Speak and read English at a level that is sufficient to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the position.
Knowledge of standard office equipment (i.e., calculator, fax, photocopier) and personal computer and computer software skills (i.e., MS Windows, Excel, Access, Word, Powerpoint, internet, e-mail).
Windows computer skills including proficient use of keyboarding, use of mouse or keys for functions such as selecting items, use of drop down menus, scroll bars, opening folders, copying and similar operations required upon employment or within the 1st two weeks of employment to perform the essential functions of the job.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Follows Palomar Health rules, policies, procedures, applicable laws and standards.
Carries out the mission, vision, and quality commitment of Palomar Health.
CLS Trainee awaiting full CA licensure are restricted to duties of processing and setup of specimens with no test performance, verification or release of results. LIS access and security would be set up at the Trainee level. Job Requirements Minimum Education: As required by certification and/or licensure or CLS trainee awaiting successful licensure examination and issuance Preferred Education: Not Applicable Minimum Experience: 0 - 6 months Preferred Experience: 1 - 2 years Required Certification: Not Applicable Preferred Certification: American Society Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Required License: MTA - CA Med Tech (CLS) or CA Clinical Microbiologist Scientist or Current CLS CA Trainee License with CA CLS Licensure obtained within 90 days of hire Preferred License: Not Applicable
Candidates must meet minimum education requirements for certification or be a CLS Trainee awaiting licensure, with 0-6 months of experience preferred, though 1-2 years is desired. A mandatory requirement is holding an MTA - CA Med Tech (CLS) or CA Clinical Microbiologist Scientist license, or a current CA CLS Trainee License with full licensure obtained within 90 days of hire.
Market context
In California, Clinical Laboratory Scientist I Micro roles are typically driven by steady demand in hospital and reference lab settings, especially where microbiology testing supports patient care and infection workups. These roles are competitive because employers often require a California CLS or Clinical Microbiologist Scientist license, or a trainee status awaiting licensure, and may prefer some prior lab experience. If you are applying, confirm your licensure path and highlight any microbiology bench experience; requirements and benefits on this platform are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time.