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Full Time Reference Laboratory information

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$42.5K

$96.8K

$147K

How much do full time reference laboratory jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time reference laboratory in the United States is $96,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $131,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs let you work in a lab?

Jobs that allow you to work in a lab include laboratory technician, research scientist, lab assistant, and quality control analyst. These roles typically require knowledge of lab equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes specific certifications or degrees in science or related fields.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a full-time reference laboratory setting?

Professionals in a full-time reference laboratory often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining strict quality control standards, and adapting to rapidly evolving diagnostic technologies. The work environment is typically fast-paced, requiring excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Collaboration with other laboratory staff, pathologists, and sometimes external clients is essential to ensure accurate and timely test results. Staying current with best practices and participating in ongoing training can help address these challenges and support professional growth.

What is the difference between Full Time Reference Laboratory vs Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

AspectFull Time Reference LaboratoryClinical Laboratory Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related field, certification (e.g., ASCP)Requires a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related field, certification (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentSpecialized labs handling complex tests, often in reference or diagnostic labsHospital, clinic, or diagnostic labs performing routine and specialized testing
Industry UsageCommonly used in reference, diagnostic, and specialized testing facilitiesWidely used in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic labs

Full Time Reference Laboratory and Clinical Laboratory Scientist roles share similar credentials and work environments, but reference labs focus on complex testing and diagnostics, while clinical scientists often work in hospital or clinical settings performing routine tests.

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

To thrive as a Reference Laboratory Technician, you need a strong background in laboratory sciences, attention to detail, and typically an associate's or bachelor's degree in medical laboratory technology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and quality control protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help ensure accuracy and collaboration in the lab environment. These skills are crucial for providing reliable diagnostic results that impact patient care and support clinical decision-making.

What is a Full Time Reference Laboratory?

A Full Time Reference Laboratory is a specialized laboratory that operates as a third-party facility providing comprehensive diagnostic testing services to hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers. These laboratories are staffed by professionals such as medical technologists and technicians who process and analyze various biological samples, like blood and tissue, to aid in disease diagnosis and patient care. Working full-time in a reference laboratory typically involves performing high-complexity tests, maintaining lab equipment, ensuring quality control, and adhering to strict regulatory standards. These labs play a crucial role in supporting the healthcare system by offering advanced testing that may not be available in smaller hospital labs.

Who gets paid more, MLT or MLS?

In the context of a full-time reference laboratory, Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) typically earn less than Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS). MLS professionals usually have a bachelor's degree and advanced training, leading to higher salaries compared to MLTs, who often have an associate degree. Salary differences also depend on experience, certifications, and geographic location.

What is the highest paying laboratory job?

In a reference laboratory setting, senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Laboratory Managers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and strong leadership skills, and they oversee laboratory operations, quality control, and compliance.

What does a reference laboratory do?

A reference laboratory performs specialized testing and analysis on biological samples to confirm diagnoses, support public health, and ensure quality control. They often handle complex or confirmatory tests that are not available in standard laboratories and require advanced equipment and expertise.
More about Full Time Reference Laboratory jobs
What cities are hiring for Full Time Reference Laboratory jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Reference Laboratory job openings:
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What states have the most Full Time Reference Laboratory jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Reference Laboratory jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Reference Laboratory jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Reference Laboratory jobs are:
Full Time Reference Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Reference Laboratory job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,784 per year, or $46.5 per hour.
Reference Laboratory Coordinator

Reference Laboratory Coordinator

Mercy Medical Center

Baltimore, MD

$67.95/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Summary

Join Our Team at Mercy Medical Center – Now Hiring a Reference Laboratory Coordinator!

Mercy Medical Center is honored to be recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Most Trustworthy Companies for three consecutive years (2023–2025) and as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Women in 2025. Additionally, we are proud to be a multi-time recipient of Forbes' America's Best Midsize Employers award, most recently in 2025.

As a hospital founded by the Sisters of Mercy, we offer a supportive and empowering environment where dedicated medical professionals thrive. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact through your work and contributing to a mission of compassionate care, we invite you to apply today and join our Mercy family.


Responsibilities

To manage the Department of Pathology Reference Lab services. To work with IT Analysts and the LIS Analyst to maintain and support internal and external (Outreach) compendiums in the Mercy Health System Information Systems. Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Director of Laboratory Services. 


Requirements
  • Bachelors degree in medical technology or a chemical, physical, biological science or related field is required plus 3 years of experience performing diagnostic laboratory testing.
  • Preferably 2 years of lab IT or reference laboratory experience.
  • Diagnostic laboratory testing must include specific experience working as technologist within a high complexity laboratory setting with experience managing multiple technical and non-technical areas including clinical specialties/subspecialties such as hematology, clinical chemistry, bacteriology and immunology, urinalysis, coagulation, phlebotomy and specimen processing. Knowledge in phlebotomy and specimen processing operations is a plus.
  • Certification by one of the following accreditation agencies: MT (ASCP), or categorical MLS (ASCP), MT (HEW), MT (HHS), MT (AMT), MT (NCA), MT (AAB).

Min
USD $37.75/Hr.
Max
USD $67.95/Hr.
Salary Information
Compensation decisions are made in alignment with internal equity, role scope, and market data to ensure fair and consistent pay practices. Most new hires are typically placed within the lower to mid-portion of the range; offers above that level are reserved for candidates with advanced or highly specialized qualifications.
Benefits

Benefits Eligibility is based on your scheduled FTE status and Job Category

  • Competitive health, prescription, vision and dental benefits & wellness credit for eligible employees
  • 403(b) retirement plan with generous company match and “catch up” provision
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & company paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Mental Health resources and other employee related wellness opportunities through our Employee Assistance Program
  • Employer paid Short & Long Term Disability benefits for eligible employees
  • Voluntary Benefits
  • Discounts on auto & home insurance and Verizon plans
  • Mercy’s Rewards & Recognition Program rewarding employees for going above and beyond in living Mercy’s Mission and Values

EEO Statement

Mercy Health Services is sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) recruiting talent for Mercy Health Services, which serves the greater Baltimore Metro and surrounding Maryland areas.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelors degree in medical technology or a chemical, physical, biological science or related field is required plus 3 years of experience performing diagnostic laboratory testing.
  • Preferably 2 years of lab IT or reference laboratory experience.
  • Diagnostic laboratory testing must include specific experience working as technologist within a high complexity laboratory setting with experience managing multiple technical and non-technical areas including clinical specialties/subspecialties such as hematology, clinical chemistry, bacteriology and immunology, urinalysis, coagulation, phlebotomy and specimen processing. Knowledge in phlebotomy and specimen processing operations is a plus.
  • Certification by one of the following accreditation agencies: MT (ASCP), or categorical MLS (ASCP), MT (HEW), MT (HHS), MT (AMT), MT (NCA), MT (AAB).
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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