ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Reference Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pacifica Hospital of the Valley

Phlebotomist

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Processes samples using aseptic technique and prepares require paperwork for appropriate testing and reference lab testing. Confers with patients to obtain information for laboratory records and to ...

Pacifica Hospital of the Valley

Phlebotomist

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Processes samples using aseptic technique and prepares require paperwork for appropriate testing and reference lab testing. Confers with patients to obtain information for laboratory records and to ...

Pacifica Hospital of the Valley

Phlebotomist

Sun Valley, CA

$17.50 - $22/hr

Processes samples using aseptic technique and prepares require paperwork for appropriate testing and reference lab testing. Confers with patients to obtain information for laboratory records and to ...

American Family Care

Medical Assistant

Anaheim, CA

$20 - $24/hr

Draw blood and preparation labs for reference lab processing and/or in-house processing * Perform laboratory tests, lab-quality controls, and equipment maintenance according to written instructions

Aptive

Phlebotomist

Stockton, CA

$18 - $22.50/hr

Accession specimens for internal and reference lab testing in VA lab systems * Guide patients in the collection of urine and other at-home specimens * Record, measure, and prepare samples for ...

Aptive

Phlebotomist

Sonora, CA

$18.75 - $23.25/hr

Accession specimens for internal and reference lab testing in VA lab systems * Guide patients in the collection of urine and other at-home specimens * Record, measure, and prepare samples for ...

Aptive

Phlebotomist

Stockton, CA

$18 - $22.50/hr

Accession specimens for internal and reference lab testing in VA lab systems * Guide patients in the collection of urine and other at-home specimens * Record, measure, and prepare samples for ...

Aptive

Phlebotomist

Stockton, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

Accession specimens for internal and reference lab testing in VA lab systems * Guide patients in the collection of urine and other at-home specimens * Record, measure, and prepare samples for ...

Aptive

Phlebotomist

Modesto, CA

$18 - $22.50/hr

Accession specimens for internal and reference lab testing in VA lab systems * Guide patients in the collection of urine and other at-home specimens * Record, measure, and prepare samples for ...

Inficare Technologies

Lab Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Role - Lab Technician Location - Irvine, CA (onsite) Duration - 1-2 months POSITION DESCRIPTION: We ... Document HW setups, and best practices for knowledge sharing and reference. * Removal of end-of ...

American Family Care

Lead Medical Assistant

Riverside, CA · On-site

$46K - $49K/yr

Draw blood and preparation labs for reference lab processing and/or in-house processing * Perform laboratory tests, lab-quality controls, and equipment maintenance according to written instructions

American Family Care Tustin

Medical Assistant

Tustin, CA

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

... reference lab processing and/or in-house processing Perform laboratory tests, lab-quality controls, and equipment maintenance according to written instructions Respond to all lab messages and call ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsReference Lab JobsReference Lab Jobs in California

Reference Lab information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Phlebotomist

Phlebotomist

Pacifica Hospital of the Valley

Sun Valley, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

The PHLEBOTOMIST is responsible for collecting and processing appropriate patient specimens and samples for laboratory testing. The Phlebotomist may perform other functions as assigned including equipment cleaning, clerical duties, etc.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Obtains blood specimens by performing venipunctures and finger sticks. Verifies specimen identification and appropriateness of sample type/volume for the indicated testing. Processes samples using aseptic technique and prepares require paperwork for appropriate testing and reference lab testing. Confers with patients to obtain information for laboratory records and to explain procedures.
  • Recognizes and reports abnormal results to the ordering provider, calling critical results within the appropriate timeframe. Documents all laboratory tests and results appropriate on logs and/or patient records per Hospital policy. Communicates effectively with other departments and staff, including physicians and their offices, to facilitate the flow and quality of lab work.
  • Monitors and maintains equipment as needed per regulation, communicating with department leadership when appropriate. Follows established guidelines for missed collections, recollects and difficult phlebotomies.
  • Assists in ordering supplies, noting expiration dates, usage and delivery times for stock and no-stock items; upon delivery, assists in comparing items received against items ordered, puts away stock, rotates items for expiration dates, and discards expired items.
  • Working with department leaders, assist in performing daily quality controls as well as other required testing.

EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE:
  • High School Education/GED
  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician
  • One (1) year experience preferred
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interface with all members of the patient care team, including physicians
  • Basic computer skills
  • Must possess good vision with normal color vision
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time

Apply