Clinical Laboratory Scientist

The START Center for Cancer Research (“START”) is the world’s largest early phase site network, fully dedicated to oncology clinical research. Throughout our history, START has provided hope to cancer patients in global community practices by offering "Hope Through Access” to cutting edge trials throughout the United States and Europe.  

We are seeking a Clinical Laboratory Scientist. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) performs moderate- and high-complexity clinical laboratory testing on patient and research specimens in support of timely, accurate patient care and clinical research operations. The CLS is responsible for activities across the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of testing, including quality control, instrument operation and maintenance, result review and reporting, documentation, and compliance with applicable federal, California, and organizational requirements.

The hourly pay for this role is $50.00 - $59.00.  However, base pay may vary depending on multiple individualized factors including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Location: 10700 Santa Monica, Suite 310, Los Angeles, CA 90025

Essential Responsibilities:

• Process patient and research specimens, including receipt, transport, accessioning, labeling verification, preparation, storage, and other pre-analytical activities, while maintaining specimen integrity and chain of custody.
• Perform moderate- and high-complexity laboratory testing in accordance with validated methods, manufacturer instructions, standard operating procedures, the laboratory test menu, and the individual’s California license and documented competency.
• Review test results for accuracy, completeness, and clinical validity; recognize abnormal, critical, or inconsistent findings; repeat or escalate testing as required; and report results through approved systems and workflows.
• Perform, document, and review quality control, calibration, calibration verification, proficiency testing, method comparison, and parallel testing activities as assigned; identify trends and take or escalate corrective action when acceptance criteria are not met.
• Operate laboratory instruments and equipment safely and competently; perform scheduled maintenance, function checks, and troubleshooting; coordinate service support; and document instrument status and corrective actions.
• Maintain complete, accurate, timely, and traceable records in the laboratory information system and other approved systems, including test results, quality records, maintenance logs, reagent and supply documentation, and corrective actions.
• Prepare, label, store, and track reagents, controls, calibrators, and supplies; monitor lot numbers, expiration dates, storage conditions, and inventory levels; and assist with ordering and receipt of laboratory materials.
• Follow laboratory safety, infection prevention, exposure-control, hazardous-material, waste-disposal, and emergency procedures when handling biological specimens, chemicals, sharps, and laboratory equipment.
• Participate in training, competency assessment, quality improvement, audit and inspection readiness, validation or verification activities, and development or revision of laboratory procedures, as assigned.
• Communicate laboratory information clearly and professionally with physicians, nurses, research staff, laboratory leadership, medical directors, vendors, and other internal and external partners.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and inspection-ready work environment and promptly report safety, quality, compliance, privacy, or equipment concerns through appropriate channels.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university in clinical laboratory science, medical technology, biological science, chemistry, or a related discipline that satisfies California licensure requirements.
• Current, active, and unrestricted California Clinical Laboratory Scientist Generalist license issued by the California Department of Public Health, Laboratory Field Services. The license must be maintained in good standing throughout employment.
• At least one year of clinical laboratory experience. Qualifying clinical training or internship experience may be considered when it meets applicable California licensing and organizational requirements.
• Demonstrated knowledge of pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical laboratory processes; quality control principles; instrument maintenance; troubleshooting; and accurate result documentation.
• Ability to perform only the testing authorized by the laboratory, the employee’s license, validated procedures, and documented training and competency.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, judgment, problem-solving, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with computers and the ability to use laboratory information systems, electronic records, Microsoft Office applications, and other required technology.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and comply with applicable privacy, safety, quality, and laboratory requirements, including CLIA, California laboratory requirements, HIPAA, OSHA/Cal-OSHA, and START policies and procedures.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• National certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist or Medical Technologist, such as MLS(ASCP), MT(ASCP), or an equivalent credential.
• Experience in hematology, chemistry, immunology, urinalysis, coagulation, microbiology, or other areas applicable to the laboratory test menu.
• Experience in oncology, clinical research, Phase I clinical trials, or a high-throughput patient-care laboratory.
• Experience with laboratory information systems, quality management systems, proficiency testing, inspections, validations, and method comparisons.
• Experience working in a California-licensed and CLIA-certified clinical laboratory; CAP-accredited laboratory experience is a plus.

Competencies:

• Proficient: Consistently demonstrates competency independently in day-to-day work; handles common challenges and meets role expectations.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of responsibilities, decisions, and outcomes.
• Performance Excellence: Maintains high standards for quality, productivity, and continuous improvement.
• Results Orientation: Delivers measurable results aligned with team and organizational goals.
• Problem Solving: Identifies challenges, evaluates options, and implements effective solutions.
• Change Agility: Adapts to evolving priorities and supports positive change.
• Open Communication: Communicates clearly, honestly, and respectfully.
• Constructive Dialogue: Raises concerns thoughtfully and challenges ideas respectfully.
  Integrity: Demonstrates ethical judgment and honesty in every action and decision.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Builds productive relationships and works effectively toward shared goals.

 Physical & Travel Requirements:

• Travel: Occasional travel may be required for training, meetings, or operational support.
• Sitting/Standing: Must be able to sit and stand for extended periods and move throughout the laboratory and clinical work areas.
• Bending/Reaching: Must be able to bend, stoop, reach overhead and at shoulder level, and access laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Lifting: Must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 40 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Manual Dexterity: Must be able to perform repetitive and fine-motor tasks, including pipetting, specimen handling, instrument operation, keyboarding, and use of laboratory tools.
• Vision: Must be able to read instrument displays, labels, color-based reactions, and detailed records, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Exposure: Work may involve exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials, sharps, chemicals, reagents, biohazards, and moving equipment. Required personal protective equipment and safety procedures must be followed.
• Schedule: Must be able to work the schedule required to support laboratory operations, which may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, or overtime based on business and patient-care needs.

Best-in-Class Benefits and Perks 

We value the time, talent, and dedication our employees bring to START. Our commitment to your well-being and growth is reflected in a competitive compensation package—based on experience—along with comprehensive benefits designed to support you both personally and professionally: 

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match 
• Eligibility for an annual performance bonus, based on role and company results 
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays 
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage and optional insurance options 
• Company paid life and disability insurance for added financial protection 
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential, no ‑cost support for you and your family from day one 
• Flexible FSA and HSA plans to support your financial wellness 
• Commitment to a supportive environment that values balance, wellbeing, and flexibility 
• We’re committed to fostering a collaborative, creative workplace where every team member is encouraged to contribute. At START, you’ll join a team that values continuous learning, professional growth, shared ideas, and a culture built on inclusivity and innovation. 

More About START 

START clinical trial sites have conducted more than 1,000 early-phase clinical trials, including dozens of therapies that were approved by the FDA or EMA. START represents the world’s largest roster of early-phase principal investigators across its Network of clinical trial sites. Committed to accelerating passage from trials to treatments, START delivers hope to patients, families, and physicians around the world via our mission of “Hope Through Access”.

Learn more at STARTresearch.com.  

Ready to be part of a team changing the future of cancer treatment? 

Join us in our mission to conquer cancer, one clinical trial at a time. Your expertise and dedication can help us bring hope and healing to patients worldwide. Please submit your application online. 

We are an equal opportunity employer that welcomes and encourages diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.