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Reference Lab Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Wellstar Health System

Specimen receipt and processing including preparing specimens for transport to reference labs, microbiology processing, loading samples on lab automation and preparing samples for the technical staff.

Chenega Corporation

Microbiologist III

Atlanta, GA · On-site

CEMB is a large laboratory branch which is home to The National Reference Lab, comprised of several teams such as the Antimicrobial Resistance and Characterization Laboratory (ARCL), the ...

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$8

$21

$38

How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for reference lab in Georgia is $21.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $23.56 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 Georgia? For Reference Lab jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Lab jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Lab jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Reference Lab jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Reference Lab job openings:
Reference Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Georgia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,344 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Phlebotomist III/Lab Assistant

Phlebotomist III/Lab Assistant

Upson Regional Medical Center

Thomaston, GA • On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Upson Regional Medical Center rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

766th of 989 rated hospitals

Job description

Performs data entry of patient orders into LIS. Verifies patient identity using 2 identifiers in accordance with hospital policy. Performs blood collection by venipuncture and capillary technique for all age groups. Collect specimens for chain of custody drug screens. Properly labels and receives specimens into LIS. Performs clerical duties including answering the phone, copying, faxing, filing, logging and tracking specimens. Maintains confidentiality of patient, client and/or company records. Processes and prepares specimens to be sent to a reference lab. Assists technical staff with non-technical tasks, including microbiology setup, streaking of plates, loading instruments, performing CLIA-waived testing in accordance with departmental policies. Performs other duties as assigned. Serves as the Lab Processor.
Requirements: High School Diploma or equivalent, Phlebotomy certification through an accrediting body such as ASCP, AMT, ASPT or equivalent, BLS certification, Chain of Custody Collection Certification, and one year experience in a hospital environment as a phlebotomist, lab processor, or lab assistant. Prefer 2+ years experience in a hospital environment as a phlebotomist, lab processor, or lab assistant.

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