Performs standard tests to obtain data used in diagnosis and treatment of patients. CLS I is a classification reserved for recent graduates of approved schools of clinical laboratory science, individuals re-entering the field, and individuals who may not meet all the required qualifications of a CLS II. May work in any of the following departments: Blood Bank, Microbiology, Automated, Non-Automated, or Critical Care. CLS I performs standard tests, may provide some work direction for non-licensed personnel. Requires work review and works with supervision.
ResponsibilitiesThis is not an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Employees will be required to perform any job, with related instruction given by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.
- Maintains technical competency, flexibility, and accuracy in assigned areas. Properly utilizes the LIS for inquiry, specimen requirements, and patient results. Demonstrates appropriate use of medical supplies, reagents, test kits, controls, and calibration material. Accurately and consistently evaluates, resolves, and documents quality control (QC) data. Demonstrates general problem solving including follow-through on identified problems and documentation of corrective action. Participates with instrument maintenance and troubleshooting. (70%)
- Demonstrates an understanding of the concepts of quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA). Monitors the appropriateness and acceptability of test results. Participates with CAP proficiency surveys. Follows guidelines necessary for regulatory compliance and participates in preparation for inspection by various accrediting agencies. Completes required competency evaluations. Attends and completes all mandatory continuing education in-services. (10%)
- Participates in Shared Governance. Participates with the training of students and/or employees by either giving lectures or providing training in-services. Participates in the evaluation of new tests, methods, or instrumentation. Participates in writing and/or updating procedure manuals and technical checklists. Participates in system-wide efforts to improve service and quality. (10%)
- Completes required continuing education for licensure. Maintains own technical checklist. Takes initiative for planning and completing professional development as it applies to laboratory goals, sytem goals, and personal/professional goals. Participates in cross-training for tests and/or analyzers to improve technical flexibility. Facilitates meeting laboratory goals and system goals by sharing information obtained through professional development activities. (5%)
- Effectively communicates with team members in order to complete assigned tasks. Organizes and prioritizes duties as needed. Able to work as a team player in regard to workstation, shift, and schedule needs to best serve laboratory and health system goals. Organizes time to prioritize, perform, and complete assigned tasks in order to meet lab-wide needs and deadlines. Demonstrates initiative by taking a lead role when appropriate. (5%)
All job qualifications listed indicate the minimum level necessary to perform this job proficiently.
LEVEL OF EDUCATION
Minimum:
- Bachelors Degree
CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Preferred:
- California license as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist. Licensure and experience has been validated and has been deemed qualified under the guidelines of the State of California and CLIA to perform clinical laboratory tests and examinations classified as waived, moderate or high complexity as described under CLIA.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Minimum:
- Functional experience with common laboratory analyzers and laboratory computer systems, including PC's.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES
All knowledge, skills, and abilities listed indicate the minimum level deemed necessary to perform this job proficiently.
- Ability to work independently. Takes initiative and works cooperatively in finding solutions to problems as they arise.
- Assumes responsibility for role in creating a collaborative work environment. Ability to follow oral and written instructions. Holds self and others accountable to the Code of Conduct.
- The employee communicates effectively.Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, pursuant to the CHS English Proficiency and Usage policy.
- Supports the mission, vision, and values of CHS by attending a Code of Conduct class within six months of hire.
Skills Required
- Bachelors Degree
- Functional experience with common laboratory analyzers and laboratory computer systems (including PCs)
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing (English proficiency)
- Completion of required competency evaluations and continuing education for licensure
- California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license
Cottage Health Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Cottage Health and has not been reviewed or approved by Cottage Health.
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Fair & Transparent Compensation — Pay is considered competitive for the area and often described as fair or among the best locally. Noted examples of meaningful raises over time reinforce the perception of market-aligned compensation.
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Healthcare Strength — Health coverage is described as very good, with comprehensive medical, dental, and vision alongside robust mental health resources. Wellness supports like an EAP, onsite fitness/yoga, and incentives enhance overall value.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Distinctive programs such as substantial down‑payment assistance, workforce‑affordable housing, wellness dollars, and onsite childcare broaden total rewards beyond core insurance. These offerings are positioned to help offset local cost pressures and support daily life.
Cottage Health Insights
What We Do
Mission Statement: To provide superior health care for and improve the health of our communities through a commitment to our core values of excellence, integrity, and compassion. Founded in 1888, the not-for-profit Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital has been serving the community for more than 125 years. Cottage Health, formed in 1996 as the not-for-profit parent organization of Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and its affiliated Cottage Children’s Medical Center, Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital, Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital, and Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital, is guided by a volunteer board of directors from the greater Santa Barbara community and provides the residents of the Central and South Coast with exemplary health care, continuous improvements in medical practice, and a commitment to our communities.







