Lab Technician

• Perform high-volume phlebotomy (venipuncture) for STI testing, RNA confirmatory testing, and research specimens.
• Perform CLIA-waived and moderate complexity testing including rapid HIV, HCV, and syphilis tests.
• Process specimens and prepare samples for transport to off-site laboratories in accordance with all safety requirements and sample integrity standards.
• Provide HIV, HCV, and STI risk reduction counseling, risk assessment, and disclosure sessions to individuals seeking confidential testing.
• Build rapport, provide supportive counseling, and discuss/address barriers preventing linkages to primary medical care and HIV/HCV-specific care.
• Complete accurate client records in CTL and electronic case management systems.
• Conduct HIV/HCV treatment readiness assessment with eligible clients and provide treatment education and supportive counseling to at-risk individuals who have not tested for HIV/HCV or to HIV/HCV-positive individuals that are out of care.
• Perform blood draw collections regularly for STI testing and RNA confirmatory testing with all clients testing reactive for HIV or Hep C in community-based settings.
• Maintain regulatory compliance through proper documentation and implementation of research specimen testing, collection, processing, and shipping.
• Organize and store samples in accordance with all safety and other requirements of personnel and integrity of samples.
• Maintain daily records, temperature logs, and equipment logs.
• Maintain quality controls and perform quality assurance on all testing supplies and equipment.
• Educate, empower, and support clients to make informed decisions regarding their utilization of relevant services to achieve their safety, health and wellness goals.
• Provide in-house and external referrals to clients as needed.
• Conduct street and community outreach in settings where clients gather and/or live to provide testing services.
• Assist with mobile testing, SRO-based testing, health fairs, and special events (e.g., Dore Alley, Folsom Street Fair).
• Ensure all tests are properly performed and documented per clinic guidelines for point-of-care testing.
• Document and maintain client records for services provided in accordance with all state and federal privacy laws.
• Fulfill monthly documentation of testing services, activity reports, and other data in relevant databases.
• Participate in internal staff meetings, in-service training, and other coordination meetings as it pertains to service delivery and operations.
• Adhere to professional boundaries and standards. Understand and follow basic ethics, values and principles of clinical regulatory practices.
• Adhere to all laws and requirements regarding HIPAA, confidentiality, child/adult protective services, contractual agreements, etc.
• Assist Testing Manager in promoting testing services, linkages to care, and prevention education.
• Assist with other HEAT Programs activities, including syringe access services (SAS) and other provision of safer use supplies, street outreach, and community-based pop-up events.

• 1–2 years of equivalent work experience providing HIV/HCV/STI prevention education, phlebotomy, and/or testing to similar populations, OR equivalent combination of education and direct service experience.
• Current California State Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT-1) certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• CA Rapid HIV/HCV Test Counselor certification strongly preferred or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within 3 months of hire.
• Demonstrates understanding of Harm Reduction as a public health model for social justice.
• Familiarity with social determinants of health (SDOH) and how they impact people experiencing homelessness and other marginalized populations.
• Experience with venue-based testing and street-based settings (mobile testing, SROs, health fairs).
• Experience working with people who use drugs (PWUD) and people living with HIV/HCV.
• Knowledge of motivational interviewing techniques, counseling principles, and health education.
• Comfortable working in an environment with potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens (with appropriate PPE).
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and exercise sound judgment.
• Excellent attention to detail, flexibility, and adaptability.
• Demonstrates cultural humility and ability to work effectively across cultures.
• Valid California Driver’s license in good standing strongly preferred.

Experience and skills that are a plus:  

• Experience with CLIA-waived and moderate complexity testing in an outpatient setting.
• Experience facilitating mobile testing, SROs, health fairs, and health access special events.
• Bachelor’s degree in public health, clinical laboratory science, or related field.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, Cantonese, Russian, or ASL.

• CA Rapid HIV/HCV Test Counselor certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• Licensed Phlebotomist or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

• Ability to work on a computer and see details of objects at close range.  
• Ability to hear within normal range, and communicate effectively (in person, telephone or Zoom).  
• Finger dexterity and the ability to use all standard office equipment. 
• Sit or stand comfortably; and the ability to navigate throughout office spaces (via elevator or stairs).

$31 - $33 an hour

This is a full-time (40 hour/week), Non-Exempt position.