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Reference Lab Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Lithonia, GA · On-site

$2.1K - $2.8K/wk

Cath Lab Technologist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per ... RCIS-Cardiovascular Credentialing International References: 1 Reference in entire work history ARRT ...

Medical Assistant/LPN

Dalton, GA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/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

... testing facilities/reference labs. 7. Perform, monitor, and document quality control tasks ... Review lab orders and results for accuracy and timeliness. 11. Any and all other duties as ...

Proficiency in Sunquest Laboratory application test and reflex build including Reference Lab build Regular Maintenance: Perform system backups, installing software updates, and managing server uptime.

Professional References * Must complete Drug Screen and Background Screen Prime HealthCare Staffing has day and night shifts available. Submit your resume and experience the Prime difference.

Professional References * Must complete Drug Screen and Background Screen Prime HealthCare Staffing has day and night shifts available. Submit your resume and experience the Prime difference. Client ...

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Reference Lab information

See Georgia salary details

$8

$21

$38

How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 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 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 cities in Georgia are hiring for Reference Lab jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Reference Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Georgia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,344 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Medical Laboratory Scientist (Immunohematology)

Medical Laboratory Scientist (Immunohematology)

LifeSouth Community Blood Centers

Atlanta, GA

$32 - $42/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 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

Do you have a passion for making an impact on patient care behind the scenes? Thrive when solving complex problems? Value a lab culture that encourages communication, learning, and shared expertise?


Join our lifesaving team of Immunohematology Medical Laboratory Scientists in Atlanta, GA today!


Position Details

  • Shift Available: morning shift, 5:00am-3:30pm, 4 days/10-hr shifts
  • Work shifts may include some weekends and holidays
  • Shift Differential - 15%-20% for eligible evening and overnight hours
  • Sign-On & Relocation Bonuses Available!
**Must be able to work in Dunwoody and Marietta.**Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. We do not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

What You'll Do

  • Work in a full-service, accredited Immunohematology Reference Laboratory
  • Resolve complex immunohematology and compatibility issues to ensure the safest blood for patients
  • Deliver excellent customer service with no on-call requirements

Qualifications

  • National certification as MT/CLS/MLS with ASCP, AAB or AMT, including immunohematology
  • Bachelor's degree in Clinical Laboratory, Chemical, or Biological Science
  • Familiarity with blood banking
  • Preferred: SBB(ASCP) or BB(ASCP) certification

Why LifeSouth?

  • Hands-on experience in a full-service Immunohematology Reference Lab
  • Opportunities for continuous learning and skill development
  • Access to our accredited SBB training program for professional growth
  • Perform critical and complex testing that directly supports lifesaving patient care

Our Benefits

  • Sign-on & relocation bonuses available
  • Shift differential for evening and overnight hours
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurances available to full-time employees the first of the month after 60 days
  • Supplemental insurances including life, cancer, accident, and disability
  • 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
  • Access to wages prior to pay day


Ready to make a difference? Apply now to join our dedicated team and help save lives!
This is a full time position. Starting salary is $32.00/hour - $42.00/hour. Candidates with substantial clinical laboratory experience and advanced credentials may be offered compensation above this range. Shift differential applies to eligible evening and overnight hours. Sign-on and relocation bonuses may also be offered to qualified candidates.


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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