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).