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Reference Lab Supervisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This includes providing and supervising high quality lab tests, quality control, preventive ... coordination of reference lab testing and adequate filing of all of the above. * Maintains ...

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Reference Lab Supervisor information

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$38.5K

$85.3K

$134.5K

How much do reference lab supervisor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference lab supervisor in the United States is $85,306.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a reference lab supervisor do?

A Reference Lab Supervisor oversees the daily operations of a laboratory that processes samples sent from other healthcare facilities, clinics, or hospitals. Their responsibilities include managing laboratory staff, ensuring quality control, maintaining regulatory compliance, and coordinating workflow to meet turnaround times. They also handle administrative tasks such as scheduling, training, and inventory management. The supervisor plays a key role in communication between the reference lab and its clients, ensuring that results are accurate and delivered promptly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a reference lab supervisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Reference Lab Supervisor, you need a solid background in laboratory science, supervisory experience, and typically a bachelor's degree in medical technology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), quality control protocols, and regulatory compliance (such as CLIA or CAP) is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help manage teams and coordinate workflow efficiently. These skills ensure accurate test results, regulatory adherence, and smooth laboratory operations, which are critical for patient care and organizational success.

What are some common challenges reference lab supervisors face when managing workflow and quality assurance?

Reference Lab Supervisors often encounter challenges in balancing high sample volumes with the need to maintain strict quality standards. They must coordinate schedules, ensure timely processing of specimens, and address instrument or supply issues quickly. Additionally, supervisors are responsible for regular staff training and staying updated with evolving laboratory regulations. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth lab operations.

What is the difference between Reference Lab Supervisor vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectReference Lab SupervisorMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in medical technology or related field; supervisory certification often preferredAssociate's degree in medical laboratory technology or related field; certification may be required
Work EnvironmentOversees laboratory operations, manages staff, ensures quality control in a reference lab settingPerforms laboratory tests, prepares specimens, and reports results under supervision
Industry UsageCommonly employed in reference or diagnostic labs, focusing on management and oversightFound in hospitals, clinics, and labs performing testing procedures

The Reference Lab Supervisor and Medical Laboratory Technician roles differ mainly in responsibility and qualifications. The supervisor manages lab operations and staff, requiring more advanced education and supervisory skills. In contrast, the technician performs testing tasks under supervision. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings, but they serve different functions within the healthcare industry.

What states have the most Reference Lab Supervisor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Reference Lab Supervisor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Reference Lab Supervisor jobs?

For Reference Lab Supervisor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Reference Lab Supervisor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,306 per year, or $41 per hour.

Reference Lab Supervisor

New Orleans, LA • On-site

The Blood Center
Health Care and Social Assistance • 201 - 500 employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description


Reference Lab Supervisor (New Orleans)

The Blood Center Reference Laboratory team helps save lives every day! We are at the forefront of patient care and provide ongoing training plus an engaged and responsive Management team!

We are looking for a Reference Laboratory Supervisor at our New Orleans location. Come lead our dynamic team in assisting area hospitals in saving lives!!

What you will do:

  • You will be a partner in decision making
  • You will resolve discrepant serologic patient results
  • You will perform routine transfusion service testing
  • You will perform complex antibody identification
  • You will perform molecular genotyping
  • You will be at the forefront of transfusion medicine at an accredited Immunohematology Reference Laboratory
  • You will maintain our extensive inventory or rare and frozen inventory
  • You will assist in validation of new equipment

What we are looking for:

  • Previous Laboratory supervisory experience
  • An SBB certification
  • LA MT CLS license
  • Intermediate to advance immunohematology knowledge

The Blood Center pays a competitive starting wage and full benefits package including paid holidays, health, dental and life insurance on date of hire, paid time off after six months and an employer contributed retirement plan.

If you meet the above qualifications and would like to work for an organization that cares about its employees and the community please apply for the Reference Lab Supervisor position online at www.thebloodcenter.org.

EOE/AAE

POSITION TITLE: Reference Lab Supervisor

DIVISION/DEPT: Reference Lab (New Orleans)

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR: Reference Lab Manager

DATE NEEDED: Immediately

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

Oversee the operation of the reference/transfusion laboratory, assure that all testing, both routine and complex, are performed in accordance with regulatory agencies, aid the staff in obtaining rare donors units through ARDP and maintaining a frozen inventory of rare units in-house, all aspects of quality control are performed by competent staff appropriately and on time, assist in validation of new equipment and writing of new SOPs, update current SOPs in accordance with changes in regulatory standards, evaluate staff performance and assist in training of new personnel.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Licenses: MT (ASCP) or equivalent or MT (ASCP) SBB preferred and LA CLS license

Education: BS degree in Medical Technology or Science with appropriate credentials, MT (ASCP) or MT (ASCP) SBB

Experience: Two years supervisory experience in blood banking or at least five years of medical technology experience

Specific Skills:Computer knowledge and good communication skills, ability to consult with staff and clients on transfusion related issues, ability to organize and manage both staff and time, extensive blood bank knowledge and critical thinking and problem solving skills