Question 1

What settings do travel CLS professionals work in?

Accepted Answer

Travel CLS professionals work in hospital clinical laboratories, reference laboratories, blood bank departments, microbiology laboratories. Each setting offers different patient populations, equipment, and workflow patterns. The variety of clinical environments is one of the biggest advantages of travel CLS assignments -- you can explore different settings across your career.

Question 2

What certifications do I need for travel CLS jobs?

Accepted Answer

Travel CLS positions typically require CLS license (California-specific), ASCP certification, State license where required, BLS. The CLS credential from CDPH (California) is the standard certification. Additional certifications such as SBB (Specialist in Blood Banking) may be valued depending on the facility and setting. Your Fusion recruiter can guide you on specific requirements for each opportunity.

Question 3

How much experience do I need for travel CLS assignments?

Accepted Answer

Most travel CLS positions require one to two years of recent clinical experience. Facilities typically prefer candidates with diverse backgrounds across hospital clinical laboratories and reference laboratories, as this demonstrates adaptability to different laboratory workflows, instrumentation, and testing protocols. Experience with multiple laboratory information systems and specimen types strengthens your candidacy for competitive assignments. Your Fusion recruiter can help match you with positions that align with your specific laboratory experience, technical skills, and career objectives, whether you're looking to expand your expertise in specialized testing areas or explore different healthcare settings across the country.

Question 4

How long are travel CLS assignments?

Accepted Answer

Travel CLS assignments typically run 13 weeks, the standard length across travel healthcare. Some facilities offer shorter or longer contracts depending on their needs, and extensions are common when both the traveler and facility are a good fit. Your Fusion recruiter handles the details of timing, start dates, and contract extensions.

Question 5

How does travel CLS pay compare to staff positions?

Accepted Answer

Travel CLS compensation packages typically include a competitive base rate, housing stipend, and travel reimbursement. Overall compensation often exceeds what staff CLS professionals earn at a single facility. Pay varies by location, facility type, and market demand. Connect with a Fusion recruiter to discuss current packages for CLS positions.

Question 6

How is travel CLS different from MT/MLS travel positions?

Accepted Answer

CLS is California-specific terminology for clinical lab scientists. Content should address California licensure requirements and how CLS differs from MT/MLS in other states. This distinction shapes the daily workflow, required certifications, and clinical focus. Both specialties offer travel opportunities, but the clinical responsibilities, equipment, and patient interactions are meaningfully different. Your recruiter can help clarify which roles match your training and career goals.

Travel CLS Jobs

FAQ

Resources

Top travel lab specialties

Top states for travel lab jobs

Top cities for travel CLS jobs

Travel CLS Jobs

FAQ

Resources

Top travel lab specialties

Top states for travel lab jobs

Top cities for travel CLS jobs