Lab Technician at Headlands Research — Escondido, CA

The Role:
The Laboratory Technician is a key member of the clinical research and laboratory operations team, responsible for performing a variety of technical and administrative tasks in support of clinical trials. This includes specimen collection, processing, documentation, and shipment in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), study protocols, and safety regulations. The technician will work with sensitive laboratory equipment, maintain a clean and organized lab environment, and assist with vital signs, ECGs, and data entry. A successful candidate will be detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and committed to supporting high-quality clinical research.

Type:  Regular Full-time Employee

Pay Range:  $24 - $27/hr

Schedule:  Mondays through Fridays, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Location:  Onsite in Escondido, CA (no capabilities for remote or hybrid work)
Reports to:  Clinical Research Manager
Benefits:  Our benefits package for full-time employees includes health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Paid Time Off (PTO), a variety of disability, accident, and life insurance options, as well as many more.

Responsibilities:

• Laboratory & Clinical Procedures
  • Perform phlebotomy, urine collection, and sample processing (centrifuging, aliquoting, labeling).
  • Prepare lab kits for each subject based on study protocols.
  • Ship biological specimens following IATA guidelines and protocol requirements.
  • Maintain specimen logs, shipping records, temperature logs, and other documentation.
  • Conduct point-of-care tests (e.g., urine drug screens, pregnancy tests).
  • Assist with patient procedures including vital signs, ECGs, and physical/neurological exam setups.
  • Clean and sanitize lab equipment and work areas daily.
  • Perform and document equipment calibration and ensure safety compliance (OSHA, HIPAA).
• Data & Documentation
  • Accurately record lab results and maintain electronic and paper logs in systems such as CRIO or eCRFs.
  • Respond to and resolve electronic data queries.
  • Verify accuracy and completeness of data entries and study documentation.
  • Participate in quality control and assurance initiatives to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Operational Support
  • Monitor and maintain inventory of lab kits and supplies.
  • Order dry ice and other lab necessities.
  • Destroy expired kits and log per protocol.
  • Support preparation of study-specific training materials and lab manuals.
  • Collaborate with study coordinators and medical staff to meet visit protocol requirements.
  • May assist with infusion monitoring under clinician supervision.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Phlebotomy certification or equivalent required.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in a clinical lab setting required.
• Familiarity with Phase I-IV clinical trials and relevant regulatory environments (GCP, GLP, ICH) preferred.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word) and database systems.
• Ability to handle infectious and potentially hazardous materials safely.
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and endure periods of standing/movement.
• Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Customer-service mindset and high level of professionalism.