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Reference Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Opendoorhealth

Lab Assistant III

Willow Creek, CA · On-site

Completes necessary referral forms and processes specimens collected in the clinic for submission to reference lab for testing, including appropriate storage of the specimens until pick-up.

Nitelines USA, Inc.

Phlebotomist

Herlong, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

Spin down blood, prepare and ensure specimens are packed and transported according to the contract or BOP Reference Lab and document per Health Services Unit Laboratory Procedures. Ensure that lab ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site

$20.71 - $31.46/hr

Researches and performs reference lab specimen send outs; assists and covers for the in house Reference Laboratory coordinator; specimen prep and test setup for automation, flow and immunology ...

NITELINES USA, INC

Phlebotomist

Herlong, CA · On-site

$26.61 - $31.70/hr

Spin down blood, prepare and ensure specimens are packed and transported according to the contract or BOP Reference Lab and document per Health Services Unit Laboratory Procedures. Ensure that lab ...

NITELINES USA, INC

Phlebotomist

Herlong, CA · On-site

$26.61 - $31.70/hr

Spin down blood, prepare and ensure specimens are packed and transported according to the contract or BOP Reference Lab and document per Health Services Unit Laboratory Procedures. Ensure that lab ...

Eisenhower

Lab Tech Aide I

Rancho Mirage, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Researches and performs reference lab specimen send outs; assists and covers for the in house Reference Laboratory coordinator; specimen prep and test setup for automation, flow and immunology ...

Trinityhealth

$21/hr

Central Processing/Reference Lab * Location: Loyola Medical Center, Maywood, IL * ** Brand NEW Clinical Laboratory - Features daylight access, in an open concept lab space** About the Job In this ...

Trinity Health

$21/hr

Central Processing/Reference Lab * Location: Loyola Medical Center, Maywood, IL * ** Brand NEW Clinical Laboratory - Features daylight access, in an open concept lab space** About the Job In this ...

AHMC Healthcare

Assistant, Laboratory

Whittier, CA · On-site

$21 - $25.80/hr

Pours off appropriate samples for reference lab send-out. Ability to verify specimen requirement with references as needed. * Completes assigned tasks satisfactorily and in a timely manner.

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All JobsReference Lab JobsReference Lab Jobs in California

Reference Lab information

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How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for reference lab in California is $24.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Professionals in a reference laboratory often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, meeting strict turnaround times, and ensuring accuracy across a diverse range of tests. Effective communication with clinical teams and meticulous attention to detail are essential to maintain workflow efficiency and minimize errors. Continuous training and familiarity with evolving technologies also help staff stay current with best practices and regulatory requirements, ensuring high-quality results and patient safety.

What is a Reference Lab?

A reference lab is a specialized medical laboratory that performs high-complexity or specialized diagnostic testing, often on samples sent from hospitals, clinics, or other medical facilities. These labs have advanced equipment and expertise to conduct tests that are not typically available in smaller or local labs. Reference labs play a crucial role in providing accurate results for rare, complex, or high-volume tests, supporting physicians in diagnosing and treating patients. They may also offer consultation on test interpretation and guidance on appropriate testing strategies.

What does a reference laboratory do?

A reference laboratory performs specialized testing and analysis on biological samples to confirm diagnoses, support patient care, and ensure test accuracy. These labs often handle complex or high-volume tests and require skilled technicians and quality control procedures.

What is the highest paid lab job?

In a reference laboratory, the highest paid roles are often senior pathologists or laboratory directors, who typically hold medical degrees and board certifications. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve overseeing laboratory operations and ensuring compliance, with salaries frequently exceeding six figures annually.

What is the highest-paying career in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest-paying careers are often senior roles such as Laboratory Directors or Chief Scientific Officers, who oversee operations and research. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the organization and location.

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

AspectReference LabMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsVaries; often specialized certifications or licensure depending on tests performedAssociate's degree in medical laboratory technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentLarge laboratories, hospitals, or diagnostic centers; handling high volume testingHospital labs, clinics, or diagnostic facilities; performing routine tests under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by diagnostic companies and hospitals for specialized testingCommonly employed in healthcare settings for sample analysis

Reference Labs and Medical Laboratory Technicians both work in laboratory settings, but Reference Labs typically handle high-volume, specialized testing often for multiple clients, while Medical Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing under supervision. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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 solid background in laboratory science, attention to detail, and typically an associate's or bachelor's degree in medical technology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), automated analyzers, and quality control procedures is essential, along with certifications like ASCP or AMT being highly valued. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently under strict deadlines are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate test processing, reliable results, and efficient lab operations critical for patient diagnosis and care.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the healthcare and laboratory fields, senior roles such as laboratory directors, chief medical officers, or specialized pathologists can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and often certification or licensing, with salaries influenced by location, employer size, and responsibilities.
What are popular job titles related to Reference Lab jobs in California? For Reference Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Reference Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Reference Lab job openings:
Reference Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Lab Assistant III

Lab Assistant III

Open Door Community Health Centers

Willow Creek, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Committed to Our Community in the Heart of the Redwoods. Removing Barriers to Healthcare Access
WCCHC Willow Creek Community Health CenterThe Lab Assistant III at Open Door Community Health Centers (ODCHC) is responsible and accountable for the overall daily coordination of the lab under the direct supervision of the Lab Manager and the Administrative Site Director. The Lab Assistant III is responsible for compliance with the quality control and proficiency testing regulation. The Lab Assistant III performs routine laboratory tasks related to processing whole blood and blood components, capillary blood collection, back office testing, microscopy, results entry, and other related tasks as assigned. This position requires a certified phlebotomy technician (CPT I or CPT II), LVN, or a Certified Medical Assistant.
Our lab assistant hourly wage ranges are listed below. All new hires will start at the base wage for the position. Certification and other requirements may be required to be hired at a higher step on our Lab Assistant ladder.
Lab Assistant II - $27.00 to $31.19
Lab Assistant III - $29.00 to $33.52
Hmong and Spanish speakers who successfully pass a language exam will receive a minimum of .75 cents added to their wage.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Coordinates the daily lab activities.
  • Notifies supervisor if the testing environment is inappropriate for testing performed in the lab.
  • Notifies laboratory supervisor of any variations from standard procedures.
  • Assures the quality control policies and procedures are followed.
  • When necessary, takes and documents necessary remedial action as first responder to problem reports.
  • Venipuncture.
  • Completes necessary referral forms and processes specimens collected in the clinic for submission to reference lab for testing, including appropriate storage of the specimens until pick-up.
  • Processes and examines microscopic urinalyses, wet-mount slide preparations and stains.
  • Keeps accurate, complete, and appropriate records of all specimens handled in the lab.
  • Logs and distributes incoming reports.
  • Performs quality control testing at specified intervals.
  • Performs general housekeeping in lab.
  • Attends lab and clinical staff meetings as requested.
  • Performs in-house tests.
  • Uses the Electronic Medical Records (EMR), EPIC, to enter results, follow up on overdue results, and respond to messages related to patient care.
  • Correctly bills various payers.
  • Maintains inventory and orders supplies for the lab.
  • Instructs patients for collection of stool or urine.
  • Participates in split sample analysis.
  • Completion of quizzes and/or skills checklists to document competency.
  • Saturday lab rotation (when applicable).
  • Other duties and responsibilities as designated by supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPECTATIONS:
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish constructive professional working relationships among a diverse workforce.
  • Ability to work as a team lead, alongside other Lab Assistants, and independently as needed.
  • Ability to train, mentor, and motivate Lab Assistant I and Lab Assistant II employees to meet job requirements.
  • Ability to handle difficult or confrontational situations in a calm, consistent, and equitable manner.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to accurately enter patient results on the lab worksheet and in the Electronic Medical Records (EMR).
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret moderately complex documents.
  • Ability to effectively represent ODCHC's interests in the community and maintain effective working relationships among co-workers, public, private, and professional groups.
  • Strong computer skills with specific aptitude in Microsoft Office Suite and/or Electronic Medical Records (EMR).
  • Adheres to ODCHC's policies and procedures.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Two years of experience in a similar role; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
  • Current CPR certification.
  • Ability to maintain a current as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT I or CPT II), Licensed Vocational Nurse, or Certified Medical Assistant.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None.
SUPERVISION AND SUPPORT: The Lab Assistant III reports directly to the Lab Manager and is an integral member of the Lab team. The Lab Assistant I is administratively supervised by the Administrative Site Director of their site location.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical requirements described are representative of those needed to successfully perform the essential duties of the position. Reasonable accommodation will be made to allow otherwise qualified candidates to perform these functions.
  • Ability to communicate via telephone, video, and/or in-person.
  • Vision adequate to read documents, computer screens, forms.
  • Ability to remain stationary for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift, carry, or otherwise move up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to use keyboard and view computer screens for extended periods.
  • Ability to travel locally and long-distance as needed.
  • Ability to move around offices and clinics as needed.

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