Laboratory Technician

At Headlands Research, we are dedicated to enhancing clinical trial delivery within our communities. As a leading network of advanced clinical trial sites, we leverage cutting-edge technology and exceptional support services to broaden outreach and participation. Founded in 2018, our rapidly growing company currently operates 20+ sites across the US and Canada, with plans for further expansion.

Location: San Diego, CA | Site Name: Artemis Institute for Clinical Research | Full-Time | Clinical Research

We’re seeking a Laboratory Technician/Phlebotomist for our clinical research site Artemis Institute for Clinical Research located in San Diego, CA. As a Laboratory Technician, you won’t just be supporting research—you’ll be helping shape the future of healthcare. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who are ready to grow their skillset and income potential within the clinical research field.

The Role:

If you’re an experienced phlebotomist who enjoys being the go-to person in the lab—and you’re ready for more ownership, variety, and growth—this role is designed for you.

This isn’t just a draw-and-go position. You’ll take the lead on lab operations within a clinical research environment, managing everything from specimen collection and processing to lab organization, compliance, and coordination with study teams.

You’ll play a critical role in advancing clinical trials while building skills that go far beyond traditional phlebotomy—including exposure to research protocols, regulatory standards, and broader patient care procedures.

Type:  Regular Full-time Employee
Schedule:  M/Th 8 AM-5 PM | Tu/W/F: 7AM-3 PM
Pay Range: $23-27/hr *Dependent upon relevant experience, certification, and education.
Location:  Onsite in San Diego, CA (no capabilities for remote or hybrid work)
Reports to: Site Director
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.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay + annual performance incentives
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid time off (PTO) and company holidays
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth
• A mission-driven culture focused on advancing medicine and improving patient outcomes

Responsibilities:

• Own the Lab Operations: Take the lead on day-to-day lab activities, ensuring everything runs smoothly, safely, and on schedule. Maintain a clean, organized, and inspection-ready lab environment. Manage lab inventory, supplies, and kit preparation across multiple studies.
• Perform & Expand Clinical Skills: Perform phlebotomy, specimen collection, and processing (centrifuging, aliquoting, labeling). Conduct point-of-care testing (e.g., urine drug screens, pregnancy tests). Assist with patient visits, including vital signs, ECGs, and study-related procedures. Support more advanced clinical activities over time, including infusion monitoring under supervision.
• Drive Accuracy & Compliance: Handle specimen shipping (IATA guidelines) and maintain detailed logs and documentation. Record lab data accurately in electronic systems (eCRFs, CRIO, etc.). Ensure compliance with GCP, OSHA, HIPAA, and study protocols. Support audit readiness and quality control efforts.
• Be a Key Partner to the Research Team: Work closely with coordinators, investigators, and clinical staff to support study visits. Help ensure each patient visit runs efficiently and according to protocol. Step in to support broader research activities when needed.

Requirements:

• Certified phlebotomist within the state of CA required
• Highly proficient in venipuncture with the ability to independently perform draws and effectively navigate challenging sticks
• Experience working with diverse patient populations; geriatric experience a plus
• Familiarity with medical terminology and basic laboratory procedures
• Comfort working with lab equipment, documentation, and regulated processes
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple responsibilities at once
• Proficiency with basic computer systems (Excel, Outlook, EMRs, or similar tools)
• Comfortable using multiple electronic data entry systems
• A team-first mindset with a willingness to jump in wherever needed
• Strong attention to detail, time management, and ability to work in a fast-paced, regulated environment
• Excellent interpersonal skills—you’ll be interacting with participants, providers, and sponsors
• Passion for improving patient outcomes through research
• Bonus points for:
  • Clinical research experience
  • Experience handling specimen processing, shipping, or lab inventory
  • Interest in growing into a Clinical Research Coordinator or lab leadership role

Why This Role Stands Out

• More responsibility than a typical phlebotomy role—you’ll help run the lab, not just support it
• Exposure to clinical research, opening doors to long-term career growth
• Skill expansion into patient care, research operations, and regulatory processes
• Clear path for advancement into coordinator or specialized research roles

Ready for What’s Next?

If you’re looking to move beyond a traditional phlebotomy role and take on more ownership in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment, we’d love to connect. Apply today and take the next step in growing your career within clinical research.