Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Position Summary

San Diego State University’s Student Health Services is seeking a skilled and dedicated Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist I to provide accurate, high-quality diagnostic testing in support of student health and wellness. This role combines hands-on laboratory testing with leadership responsibilities, ensuring smooth daily operations, quality assurance, and mentorship for lab staff in a collaborative campus health environment.

• Perform Clinical Testing:
  Conduct diagnostic tests in chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and immunology; perform microscopic examinations; and carry out high- and moderate-complexity molecular diagnostic tests with precision and accuracy.
• Provide Lead Direction:
  Oversee daily workflow by guiding Clinical Laboratory Scientists and Phlebotomists, ensuring efficient patient and test flow, timely results, and effective communication with providers.
• Ensure Quality Assurance:
  Manage instrument calibration, quality control procedures, and preventive maintenance; document results and compliance in the Laboratory Information System (LIS).
• Support Compliance & Accreditation:
  Partner with the Laboratory and Radiology Manager on inspection readiness, staff competency assessments, policy development, and proficiency testing.
• Maintain Operations:
  Monitor supply inventory, reconstitute reagents, assist with phlebotomy and reception duties as needed, and contribute to research projects or other assigned initiatives.

• Impact Student Health:
  Play a vital role in supporting SDSU students’ well-being and academic success through reliable, high-quality clinical testing.
• Collaborative Environment:
  Work alongside a team of physicians, nurse practitioners, and healthcare professionals in a supportive, student-focused health center.
• Leadership Opportunity:
  Guide and mentor laboratory staff while strengthening your own leadership skills in a dynamic campus setting.
• Commitment to Excellence:
  Be part of an inclusive, equity-driven division dedicated to fostering belonging and promoting health for a diverse student community.

• This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position.
• This position may be offered on a 12 month pay plan, or an 11/12 pay plan.
• Under the 11/12 option, the employee works 11 months per year with pay distributed over 12 months, with July 2026 as the anticipated month off.
• Position is designated non-exempt under FLSA and is eligible for overtime compensation.
• Standard SDSU work hours are Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs.
• The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego.

The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Campus Diversity is responsible for the coordination and development of student services and building the inclusive excellence of SDSU's staff and faculty. Programs and services include, but are not limited to, Student Health Services and related departments that support inclusive excellence and student success.

Bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science or equivalent from an accredited institution or equivalent postsecondary education, training and experience as defined by the California Division of Laboratory Science or combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge and abilities.

• Experience serving as a lead or supervisor within a laboratory setting.
• Experience with policy and procedure development and accreditation or inspection readiness.
• Experience working in a health services or clinical laboratory; experience in a college health setting is a plus.
• Laboratory “generalist” with 3-5 years of experience is preferred.
• Recent (past three years) phlebotomy experience is preferred.

Possess and maintain a valid California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license.

San Diego State University offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

• 12 month pay plan: CSU…