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Clinical Reference Laboratory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lab Aide

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$15.50 - $28/hr

Provide routine assistance in the performance of laboratory testing. Responsible for managing samples throughout the aliquoting and storage process. Duties may include aliquoting, storing, freezing ...

Lab Aide

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$15.50 - $28/hr

Provide routine assistance in the performance of laboratory testing. Responsible for managing samples throughout the aliquoting and storage process. Duties may include aliquoting, storing, freezing ...

$55K - $120K/yr

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY: Analyze medical and financial information to determine an underwriting classification. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Evaluate documents such as applications, medical ...

$55K - $120K/yr

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY: Analyze medical and financial information to determine an underwriting classification. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Evaluate documents such as applications, medical ...

... in clinical/reference laboratory work, as well as, preparation of validation documents and SOPs; • Provide technical oversight of the daily performance of high complexity testing; strictly ...

Participate in evaluation of new products used in clinical/reference laboratory work; * Perform all related work as required; * Testing personnel responsibilities (42 CFR 493.1495 Standard): * The ...

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Clinical Reference Laboratory information

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$15

$35

$69

How much do clinical reference laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical reference laboratory in the United States is $35.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $46.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clinical Reference Laboratory Technician, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In the healthcare field, some high-paying roles at clinical reference laboratories or related settings, such as experienced phlebotomists or laboratory technicians with specialized skills, can earn around $4,000 weekly, especially with overtime or bonuses. These positions typically require technical training or certifications but not a college degree. Other high-paying jobs outside healthcare include sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and commercial drivers, which may reach similar earnings through experience and commissions or overtime.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

In a clinical reference laboratory, the highest paying roles are often laboratory directors or pathologists, who typically hold advanced medical degrees and certifications. These positions involve overseeing laboratory operations, ensuring compliance, and interpreting complex test results, and they usually command salaries significantly higher than technical or technician roles.

What is the highest paying job in clinical research?

In clinical research, senior roles such as Clinical Research Director or Vice President of Clinical Operations tend to be the highest paying, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of regulatory requirements and trial management tools.

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 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 is a clinical reference lab?

A clinical reference laboratory is a facility that performs specialized diagnostic tests on patient samples, often serving multiple healthcare providers. Employees in this setting may handle specimen processing, testing procedures, and quality control using laboratory instruments and protocols.
More about Clinical Reference Laboratory jobs
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What states have the most Clinical Reference Laboratory jobs? States with the most job openings for Clinical Reference Laboratory jobs include:
Lab Aide

$15.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Clinical Reference Laboratory rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY:  Provide routine assistance in the performance of laboratory testing.  Responsible for managing samples throughout the aliquoting and storage process.  Duties may include aliquoting, storing, freezing, transporting, and preparing specimens for laboratory analysis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

Level 1

  • Comply with department SOP's and safety procedures. 
  • Perform duties of a Sample Processing Clerk/Opener as needed.
  • Maintain chain of custody for all specimen handling.
  • Prepare freezer tubs for the long-term storage of samples.
  • Locate, retrieve, aliquot samples as needed for screening/confirmation for test adds, order modifications, and/or retesting requirements.
  • Log and prepare samples for intra-company transfer and/or sendouts.
  • Advise Management of operational problems impacting workflow and recommend solutions
  •  Maintain and protect the confidentiality of all CRL, CRL subsidiaries, legal entities and client information.
  • Be able to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local safety and health regulations that would apply to this job.
  • Keep work area neat and clean.

Other duties as assigned.

Level 2

  • Perform all duties of Lab Aide Level 1
  • Process and respond to service requests from multiple departments.
  • Research and resolve problems related to tracking, daily workflow and/or general inquiries.
  • Transfer specimens to long-term storage.
  • Dispose of specimens from short-term storage and long-term storage.

Level 3 

  • Perform all duties of Lab Aide Level 2
  • Perform pre-analytical set-up of screening operations; including receiving specimens from the pass-through windows or sorter, receiving and storage of supplies, transferring of samples as needed.
  • Assist screening workflow as requested

Level 4

  • Perform all duties of Lab Aide Level 3
  • Perform pre-analytical set-up of confirmation operations; including receiving specimens from the pass-through windows or sorter, receiving and storage of supplies, transferring of samples as needed.
  • Assist confirmation workflow as requested

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION:  High School Diploma or equivalent

EXPERIENCE:  None

SKILLS & ABILITIES: 

         Good basic verbal and written communication

         Ability to read information quickly and return information for use in processing

         Good writing ability

         Team oriented

         Ability and judgment to interact and communicate appropriately with other employees, clients and management

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:  The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The following physical attributes are required for this position:

         Sitting for extended lengths of time

         Regularly required to move around laboratory

         Close vision requirements due to computer work

         Repetitive use of hands, fingers, wrists, and elbows for operating a computer and telephone

         Reaching, including above the shoulder

         Twisting

         Bending or stooping

         Squatting or crouching

         Kneeling

         Climbing

         Lifting up to 25 pounds

         Ability to hear auditory cues

EQUIPMENT:  PC and communications equipment. Centrifuge; shaker/rotator; various automated instruments; pipette; lab coat; gloves; face shield cart; trash compactor; minus 20 freezer.

OTHER:  Must be able to work overtime as necessary to complete workload.  Rotation may include Saturday shift. Specimens consist of body fluids and must be regarded as potentially infectious; exposure to caustics, flammables, solvents, carcinogens, and reactive compounds.  Trash compactor operator requires minimum age of 18 years.

The employer shall, in its discretion, modify or adjust this position to meet the company's changing needs.

This job description is not a contract and may be adjusted as deemed appropriate in the employer's sole discretion.

Level advancement is achieved after completion of training and competency. 

         denotes essential job function

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Pay Range: $15.50 - $28.00

Benefits for Full Time Employees:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life/AD&D
  • Supplemental Life/AD&D
  • Section 125 FSA Plan
  • 401(k)
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement
Employment Type: Full Time

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