Senior Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Posting number: VHNA-2026A

Department: Health Services - Only

Job classification: Senior Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Posting type: Open

Categories: Health Services, Laboratory

Summary

The Contra Costa Health Department is offering an excellent career opportunity to fill one (1) Senior Clinical Laboratory Scientist position located in the Clinical Laboratory at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) in Martinez, CA. 

This position provide work direction to other clinical scientists in the performance of (but not limited to) bacteriology, chemistry, hematology, and transfusion services and analyses and assist in the training and development of newly hired clinical scientists. They also perform the more difficult and non-standard laboratory tests and analyses, conduct technical research work, and recommend new or modified procedural and qualitative techniques. In addition, they assist in calibrating instruments, ordering supplies and equipment, and scheduling work and setting work priorities. Our lab offers an excellent opportunity to learn new tests and technologies while working as part of a team dedicated to supporting patient care.

We are looking for someone who is:

• An excellent problem solver with strong analytical skills
• Able to work independently and manage responsibilities effectively
• Willing to share knowledge, expertise, and professional experience with others
• Detail-oriented and committed to accuracy
• Able to follow established protocols, policies, and procedures
• A clear and effective communicator
• Reliable, professional, and committed to maintaining the highest level of integrity

What you will typically be responsible for:

• Performing complex laboratory tests
• Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting analyzers/instrument
• Preparing, handling, and processing patient specimens
• Training new staff
• Troubleshooting QC failures/calibration
• Recognizing abnormal or critical results

 A few reasons why you might love this job:

• You will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient care and contribute to positive health outcomes
• You will engage in scientifically interesting work that combines technical expertise with real-world application
• Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, keeping the work dynamic and mentally stimulating
• You will build a rewarding career in a field where precision, expertise, and attention to detail are highly value

A few challenges you might face in this job:

• Managing very tight turnaround times while ensuring high-quality and timely results
• Troubleshooting equipment issues quickly and effectively to minimize disruptions to operations
• Keeping pace with rapidly evolving technology 
• Maintaining constant safety awareness while working in environments with potential exposure to biohazards

Competencies Required: 
Analyzing & Interpreting Data: Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
Decision Making: Choosing optimal courses of action in a timely manner
Delivering Results: Meeting organizational goals and customer expectations and making decisions that produce high-quality results by applying technical knowledge, analyzing problems, and calculating risks
Mathematical Facility: Performing computations and solving mathematical problems
General Physical Ability: Using strength, endurance, flexibility, balance, and coordination
Legal & Regulatory Navigation: Understanding, interpreting, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations
Professional & Technical Expertise: Applying technical subject matter to the job
Safety Focus: Showing vigilance and care in identifying and addressing health risks and safety hazards
Action & Results Focused (Taking Initiative): Initiating tasks and focusing on accomplishment
Displaying Ownership and Accountability: Holding self and others accountable for measurable high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results
Innovation: Imagining and devising new and better ways of doing things
Informing: Proactively obtaining and shar