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National Reference Laboratory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience supervising in a high-volume or national reference laboratory environment * Demonstrated ability to coach and develop laboratory staff * Strong working knowledge of workflow optimization ...

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Prepare laboratory specimens for various analysis and testing * Research, troubleshoot and resolve ... color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions ...

Hospital Reference Testing Clerk

Missoula, MT · On-site

$37K - $40K/yr

Prepare laboratory specimens for various analysis and testing * Research, troubleshoot and resolve ... color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions ...

Hospital Reference Testing Clerk

Missoula, MT · On-site

$37K - $40K/yr

Prepare laboratory specimens for various analysis and testing * Research, troubleshoot and resolve ... color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions ...

Hospital Reference Test Clerk

Spokane, WA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.37/hr

Prepare laboratory specimens for various analysis and testing * Research, troubleshoot and resolve ... color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions ...

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National Reference Laboratory information

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How much do national reference laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for national reference laboratory in the United States is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a National Reference Laboratory professional, you need advanced knowledge in medical laboratory science, microbiology, and quality assurance, typically supported by a relevant degree and professional certification (such as ASCP or equivalent). Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS), molecular diagnostic platforms, and quality control protocols is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure accurate results and collaboration with healthcare stakeholders. These skills are crucial for upholding national testing standards, ensuring public health, and delivering reliable diagnostic services.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working at a National Reference Laboratory, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals at a National Reference Laboratory often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, ensuring strict adherence to quality and safety standards, and staying current with rapidly evolving diagnostic technologies. Collaboration across interdisciplinary teams is common, requiring strong communication and adaptability. To excel, job seekers should be prepared to engage in continual learning, practice meticulous attention to detail, and proactively participate in quality improvement initiatives to maintain the laboratory's reputation for excellence.

What is a National Reference Laboratory?

A National Reference Laboratory is a specialized laboratory designated by a country's health authorities to provide high-level diagnostic testing, surveillance, and support for specific diseases or public health concerns. These laboratories set national standards, offer reference testing, confirm results from other labs, and often play a key role in outbreak investigations and quality assurance. They also support research, training, and development of new diagnostic methods, ensuring the overall quality and reliability of laboratory services within the country.
More about National Reference Laboratory jobs
What cities are hiring for National Reference Laboratory jobs? Cities with the most National Reference Laboratory job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Laboratory jobs? The most popular types of Reference Laboratory jobs are:
What states have the most National Reference Laboratory jobs? States with the most job openings for National Reference Laboratory jobs include:
Infographic showing various National Reference Laboratory job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,831 per year, or $23 per hour.
Immunohematology Reference Laboratory Manager

Immunohematology Reference Laboratory Manager

LifeSouth Community Blood Centers

Atlanta, GA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


LifeSouth Community Blood Centers rating

4.7

Company rating: 4.7 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

Would you enjoy leading a team of lab professionals providing world-class care to patients with complex transfusion needs in your community?


LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is looking for a Laboratory Manager for our Immunohematology Reference Laboratory (IRL) in Atlanta, GA. This position is responsible for leading staff engaged in performing laboratory testing and related activities in our AABB-accredited reference laboratory. This position is also responsible for ensuring compliance with established laboratory policy and with applicable governmental regulatory requirements from agencies such as CLIA, FDA, AABB, HIPAA, and state licensing regulations.


About This Position

Our Atlanta IRL is supported by Board Certified Pathologists in Transfusion Medicine, and a network of resources including LifeSouth' s CAP-accredited HLA Lab, AABB-accredited Molecular Lab, and Immunohematology Reference Labs in Gainesville, FL, Jacksonville, FL, and Birmingham, AL.


Position Details

  • Shift Differential - 15%-20% for eligible evening and overnight hours
  • Sign-On & Relocation Bonuses Available!

Minimum Responsibilities Include (but are not limited to)

  • Communicates technical information to hospital blood banks, transfusion services, physicians, and other clinical partners to support high-quality laboratory services
  • Ensures technologists are properly trained and competent to perform testing and report results accurately, promptly, and in compliance with regulatory standards
  • Oversees remedial actions when test systems fall outside established performance specifications, ensuring timely resolution and system reliability
  • Verifies that patient test results are not reported until all corrective actions have been completed and the testing system is functioning correctly
  • Monitors workflows related to specimen accessioning, identification, transport, storage, and disposal to ensure adherence to internal and external regulations
  • Ensures ongoing compliance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and accreditation standards
  • Evaluates and participates in quality assurance programs to monitor and improve factors affecting the quality of laboratory services
  • Assists with obtaining and maintaining laboratory accreditation through accurate documentation. oversight, and adherence to all standards

Minimum Qualifications

  • Five years of experience in Immunohematology and two years of management experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Clinical Laboratory, Chemical, or Biological Science; Master's degree preferred
  • National certification as MT/CLS/MLS with ASCP, AAB, or AMT, including immunohematology
  • National SBB(ASCP) certification
  • Supervisor's license issued by the state in which the lab is located
  • Scientific and technical knowledge from current sources, such as the AABB/FACT/NETCORD Standards and relevant guidance related to FDA, CLIA, and CMA, both state and federal
  • Knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, and regulations and voluntary accrediting standards related to the operation of clinical laboratories and blood banks
  • Basic computer skills and experience with computer programs such as MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)

Competitive Benefits Package

  • Sign-on & relocation bonuses available
  • Shift differential for evening and overnight hours
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) plan
  • Medical, dental and vision insurances available to full-time employees the first of the month after 60 days
  • Access to mental wellness resources and counseling through telehealth
  • Free basic life insurance for full-time employees
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer match each pay period
  • Employer funded retirement plan for vested employees & 403b offered
  • Wellness program with incentives and HSA rewards
  • Access to wages prior to pay day


This is a full-time position. Salary is commensurate with experience. Criminal background check and drug screen required upon conditional offer of hire. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer/Drug-Free/Tobacco Free Workplace.


The position description may not include all the duties and responsibilities of the job. Duties and responsibilities that are not listed, but which the employee may be expected to perform, will fall within the scope of the skills, knowledge and training for the position.

LifeSouth is a Drug-Free and Tobacco-Free Workplace. LifeSouth is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor as well as an affirmative action employer and provides equal opportunity to all persons, regardless of race, religion, age, gender, disability, status as a protected veteran, national origin, color, or any other classification in accordance with federal, state, and local statutes, regulations, and ordinances. Veterans are encouraged to self-identify as LifeSouth desires to provide protected veterans priority referrals for open positions. LifeSouth complies with all laws and regulations associated with the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). LifeSouth is an E-Verify employer.

If you require any assistance to complete the application process or during the interview due to a disability, please contact the LifeSouth region where you are applying or call 1-888-795-2707 to request an accommodation. Applications may be completed at a LifeSouth facility or mailed to corporate headquarters in lieu of the on-line application process.

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