Part-Time Clinical Laboratory Scientist; CCDL

Part‑Time Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CCDL)

Join the University of California, Santa Cruz as a Part‑Time Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CCDL) to perform high‑complexity molecular diagnostics for the Treehouse CARE assay (Illumina RNA sequencing). This role follows validated SOPs, LIS, and all applicable regulations (CDPH, CLIA, CAP).

• Salary: $42.63 – $50.96 per hour (budgeted)
• Benefits Level: Core benefits
• Schedule: Part‑time, variable – 50% (20 hours per week); days Monday‑Friday, schedule discussed with supervisor.
• Work Location: 2300 Delaware Avenue, Colligan Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory, Westside Research Park
• Job End Date: 5 months from hire date, with possibility of extension
• Union Representation: HX Union
• Travel: Up to 25% of the time; primarily on campus, occasional remote work possible.

• 40% – Performance of Diagnostic Tests and Assay Development
  • Perform in‑house testing with required quality controls and documentation.
  • Perform validation experiments for new assays.
  • Discuss procedures and technical results with clinicians as related to diagnosis.
  • Explain test procedures to patients when requested.
  • Follow all precautions for blood‑borne pathogens.
• 25% – Laboratory Operations Support
  • Prepare and maintain laboratory forms, logs, and records.
  • Monitor inventories and initiate orders.
  • Perform and document daily equipment and temperature checks.
  • Make minor equipment repairs and coordinate vendor service as needed.
  • Serve as alternate liaison with California State Lab field personnel, CLIA and CAP personnel, vendors, campus purchasing, and reference laboratories.
  • Serve as alternate point of contact for test pricing and contract discussions with reference labs and collaborators.
• 20% – Quality Control and Compliance
  • Perform quality control for all testing in accordance with Federal and State regulations and CAP.
  • Follow up on abnormal in‑house results and discuss options with staff and clinicians.
  • Meet performance standards for external evaluations and proficiency testing programs.
• 10% – Results, Statistics, and Billing
  • Enter and verify results in the Laboratory Information System.
  • Analyze and summarize results from validation experiments.
  • Maintain required logs and statistics for in‑house and reference testing.
• 5% – Miscellaneous
  • Participate in long‑range planning and special projects.
  • Help manage biological and hazardous waste storage and collection per regulations and campus requirements.
  • Route laboratory mail to appropriate personnel.

• Current California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license (generalist CLS or limited Clinical Genetic and Molecular Scientist in good standing)
• Prior molecular biology laboratory experience (PCR, nucleic acid extraction, electrophoresis)
• Knowledge of universal precautions, blood‑borne pathogen standards, and appropriate PPE
• Proficiency with LIS, electronic medical records, word processing, and spreadsheets
• Ability to properly and safely use laboratory and safety equipment
• Excellent written communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with clinicians and staff with minimal supervision
• Strong organization and time‑management skills, ability to prioritize high‑volume workloads with frequent interruptions
• Discretion and tact in handling difficult, sensitive, and confidential situations
• Excellent listening skills and a positive, cooperative approach with staff, patients, and families
• Excellent oral communication skills

• Prior experience working with RNA
• Illumina sequencing experience
• Experience with secure cloud data transfer or analysis workflows

• Must pass a pre‑employment criminal history background check
• Must pass the employment misconduct disclosure process
• Ability to work long periods at a computer with or without accommodation
• Ability to safely perform the physical requirements necessary to move light to moderate objects up to 60 lbs., with or without accommodation
• Primary on‑campus work with periods of remote work possible; hybrid schedule must align with UCSC telecommuting agreement
• Variable schedule and occasional overtime with little or no advance notice
• Ability to respond to…