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Clinical Reference Laboratory Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

... clinical laboratory tests to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of customer treatment ... Prepares and packages samples for reference lab. * Stocks, rotates, and requests supplies as needed.

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Clinical Reference Laboratory information

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$15

$35

$68

How much do clinical reference laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical reference laboratory in Minnesota is $35.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.47 and $45.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical reference laboratory?

A Clinical Reference Laboratory is a specialized facility that performs a wide range of medical tests on clinical specimens, such as blood, urine, or tissue, to provide information for diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. These laboratories typically receive samples from hospitals, clinics, and physicians' offices that do not have the resources to conduct specialized or high-volume testing in-house. Clinical reference labs use advanced technologies and highly trained staff to ensure accurate and timely results, often offering specialized testing that may not be available at smaller labs. Their services are essential for patient care, public health surveillance, and medical research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical reference laboratory technician?

To thrive as a Clinical Reference Laboratory Technician, you typically need a background in laboratory science, a relevant associate or bachelor's degree, and knowledge of clinical testing procedures. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and quality control protocols is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure accurate test results and collaboration with healthcare teams. These skills are essential for maintaining reliable diagnostics and patient safety in a high-stakes laboratory environment.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a clinical reference laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a clinical reference laboratory often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining strict quality and safety standards, and staying current with rapidly evolving laboratory technologies. Effective time management, regular training, and adherence to standard operating procedures are critical for addressing these issues. Additionally, clear communication and collaboration with colleagues and healthcare providers help ensure accuracy and efficiency in test processing and reporting.

What is the difference between Clinical Reference Laboratory vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectClinical Reference LaboratoryMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsTypically requires certification or licensing, such as CLIA certificationRequires an associate degree in medical laboratory technology and certification (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentOperates in large labs, hospitals, or specialized testing facilitiesWorks in hospital labs, clinics, or diagnostic labs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by diagnostic labs providing specialized testing servicesEmployed in healthcare settings performing routine lab tests
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for testing scope and certification requirementsCompared for training, duties, and certification needed

In summary, Clinical Reference Laboratories focus on specialized testing and often require advanced certifications, operating in large-scale lab environments. Medical Laboratory Technicians perform routine tests in healthcare settings, requiring specific training and certification. Both roles are essential in the diagnostic process but differ in scope, environment, and credentials.

How to get a job in a clinical reference laboratory?

To work in a clinical reference laboratory, candidates typically need a relevant healthcare or laboratory science degree, such as a medical laboratory technician or technologist certification. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, understanding laboratory procedures, and obtaining certifications like ASCP can improve job prospects. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and adherence to safety protocols are essential for success in this environment.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Clinical Reference Laboratory jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Clinical Reference Laboratory job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Reference Laboratory job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,843 per year, or $35 per hour.

Clinical Pathology Technician

Fairview Health Services

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Fairview Health Services rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 250 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

129th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Overview
Fairview is looking for a Clinical Pathology Technician (CPT) in Acute Care Laboratory at M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Medical Center-East Bank. This is a casual (0.01 FTE) day shift position. Shift hours are 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and include 10-hour shifts. This position requires working 3 out of every 6 weekends and occasional holidays. Please note that this position does not have a fixed weekly schedule. Candidates must be flexible and available to work varying days of the week based on departmental staffing and operational needs. Flexibility in scheduling is essential to support patient care and department coverage requirements.
Fairview is proud to be the 2025 recipient of the Foster G. McGaw Prize, a prestigious award granted each year to one hospital or healthcare system in the nation to recognize excellence in community partnerships and service. M Health Fairview's University of Minnesota Medical Center was also ranked No.1 hospital in the Twin Cities Metro for 2025 by U.S News & World Report, a testament to the expertise and dedication of our team and our collective commitment to innovation, clinical leadership and high-quality patient care.
The Clinical Pathology Technician (CPT) performs all work processes necessary for the preparation or procurement and transport of specimens used for waived, moderate, or high complexity testing as defined by CLIA '88. The CPT possesses knowledge of all departments within the clinical laboratory (Chemistry, Blood Bank, Urinalysis, Hematology, Coagulation, and Microbiology), performs routine and specialty procedures, recognizes problems, identifies basic causes, and makes corrections using established protocols. The CPT processes data based on knowledge of technical and instrumental conditions affecting diagnostic test results and performs procedures within established parameters. The CPT collaborates with the customers of the laboratory to promote customer satisfaction and works independently under general supervision.
Responsibilities
  • Specimen procurement and processing:
  • Participates in specimen collection (bone marrow, blood, and body fluids) following established guidelines.
  • Assists physicians and residents in obtaining specimens from patients of all ages and degrees of physical and/or mental disability.
  • Properly verifies patient identity and "pauses for cause" in the collection of bone marrow.
  • Coordinates and ensures adequate documentation of specimen drop-offs.
  • Processes specimens, including centrifugation, aliquoting, preparation for transport to various reference labs, and storage at proper temperatures.
  • Assesses integrity and acceptability of all specimens.
  • Verifies correct labeling of specimens and handles all deviations following standard operating procedures.
  • Follows established guidelines for determining priority of specimen testing/processing and procurement.
  • Professionally communicates collection instructions, including minimum volume requirements, to nursing staff and other providers.
  • Performs phlebotomy and possesses knowledge of basic anatomy.
  • Understands clinical laboratory processes and their significance in human physiology.
  • Collaborates with researchers to ensure suitable specimen processing, storage, and transport.
  • Follows established guidelines and procedures to accession/order or enter specimens/tests into the computer system:
  • Enters correct information required by the LIS computer system.
  • Verifies patient identification, demographics, ordering physician and tests ordered.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of diagnosis codes in the billing and ordering processes.
  • Works carefully, incorporating key reliability behaviors, to eliminate data entry errors.
  • Performs all work processes necessary to produce specimens used for waived, moderate, or high complexity testing as defined by CLIA'88:
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of the clinical laboratory and performs routine and specialty procedures.
  • Assists providers and residents in specimen preparation.
  • Operates laboratory instrumentation and information systems according to written procedures.
  • Works independently under general supervision.
  • Completes specified maintenance on instruments according to written procedures.
  • Documents maintenance of laboratory instruments.
  • Orders and maintains adequate laboratory supply volumes.
  • Maintains a clean and organized working environment.
  • Accurately describes the appearance of blood and body fluids or other specimens upon receipt.
  • Accurately time/date stamp specimens upon receipt following departmental guidelines.
  • Recognizes problems and takes appropriate measures to resolve them:
  • Identifies basic causes of problems and makes corrections using established protocols.
  • Initiates proper safety or emergency responses.
  • Obtains assistance from supervisor or others if unable to resolve issues.
  • Evaluates diagnostic preparations for quality and initiates interventions as needed:
  • Identifies unacceptable quality and initiates action steps when parameters are out of compliance.
  • Takes appropriate action to recheck abnormal, discrepant, or unexpected results.
  • Directly communicates abnormal and critical results to caregivers.
  • Complies with Laboratory Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement, and Laboratory Compliance Programs:
  • Documents deviations and action taken.
  • Documents reagent, test kit and calibrator checks.
  • Recognizes and communicates values that exceed the QC decision levels.
  • Reports unresolved QC trends to supervisor.
  • Complies with laboratory procedures needed for regulatory compliance.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of laboratory policies and procedures that are based on CAP regulations, HIPAA, and JCAHO standards, as appropriate to the work setting.
Required Qualifications
  • 24 credits of college coursework with at least 12 credits in chemistry or biological sciences • Transcript must be provided or
  • 24 credits of college coursework plus 2 years of clinical laboratory experience • Transcript must be provided
  • 0 to 1 year of experience in a clinical or anatomic diagnostic laboratory.
  • Demonstrates the ability to work under stress in a variety of situations.
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment.
  • Demonstrate manual dexterity.
  • Basic computer and keyboarding skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • B.S./B.A. or
  • Medical Assistant Degree
  • 1-2 years of experience in a clinical laboratory.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology.

Benefit Overview
Although this is considered a non-benefit eligible position, Fairview offers employees the option to participate in the Fairview 403(b) plan, earn Sick and Safe Time, and early access to earned wages.
Compensation Disclaimer
An individual's pay rate within the posted range may be determined by various factors, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, our organization prioritizes pay equity and considers internal team equity when making any offer. Hiring at the maximum of the range is not typical. If your role is eligible for a sign-on bonus, the bonus program that is approved and in place at the time of offer, is what will be honored.
EEO Statement
EEO/Vet/Disabled: All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to any lawfully protected status

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About Fairview Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Fairview Health Services is an industry-leading, award-winning nonprofit that offers an entire network of healthcare services. Fairview is one part of M Health Fairview, a partnership between the University of Minnesota, M Physicians and Fairview Health Services. Together, we combine the University's deep history of clinical innovation and training with Fairview's extensive roots in community medicine. Our care portfolio includes community hospitals, academic hospitals, primary and specialty care clinics, senior facilities, facilitated living centers, rehabilitation centers, home health care services, counseling, pharmacies and benefit management services.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US