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Reference Lab Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ADN Healthcare

RN - Cardiac Cath Lab

Mason City, IA · On-site

$2.4K - $3.3K/wk

Cardiac Cath Lab Rn Our client is currently seeking cardiac cath lab for positions in Mason City ... Current BLS and/or ACLS and/or specialty certifications * 2 current clinical references

ADN Healthcare

RN - Cardiac Cath Lab

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$2.4K - $3.3K/wk

Cardiac Cath Lab RN Opportunity Our client is currently seeking a Cardiac Cath Lab RN for positions ... Current BLS and/or ACLS and/or Specialty Certifications * 2 current clinical references

Sarahbush

Clinic Nurse (CMA or LPN)

Davenport, IA · On-site

$19.61 - $30.40/hr

Handles and coordinates reference lab testing specimens/reports and corresponding reports/documentation., Performs general clerical duties, as required, such as receiving and mailing patient test ...

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All JobsReference Lab JobsReference Lab Jobs in Iowa

Reference Lab information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$23

$42

How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for reference lab in Iowa is $23.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $26.20 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.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology can assist lab technicians by automating routine tasks such as data analysis and sample processing, but it is unlikely to fully replace them. Lab technicians' expertise in handling complex procedures, troubleshooting, and ensuring quality control remains essential in laboratory settings. AI tools are intended to augment human work rather than replace skilled professionals entirely.

What does it mean to be a reference lab?

A reference lab is a specialized laboratory that performs complex or specialized diagnostic tests that are not available in standard clinical labs. Employees in a reference lab typically handle high-volume testing, use advanced equipment, and follow strict quality control protocols to ensure accurate results for healthcare providers and patients.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In a reference laboratory setting, roles such as senior laboratory technician or specialized medical technologist can potentially earn around $10,000 per month with extensive experience and certifications. These positions often require technical skills, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and adherence to safety protocols, but may not always require a traditional college degree depending on the employer and region.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Reference Lab jobs in Iowa? For Reference Lab jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Lab jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Lab jobs in Iowa are:
Reference Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,327 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Clinical Lab Technologist I

Clinical Lab Technologist I

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

Other

Posted 3 days ago

University Of Iowa rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

410th of 539 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The University of Iowa Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is seeking a Clinical Lab Technologist for our In Vitro Fertilization - and Andrology Laboratories. Under the supervision of the Laboratory Director and in conjunction with andrology technologists, embryologists and the Ob/Gyn Infertility Specialists, the Clinical Lab Tech schedules and performs laboratory procedures used in the diagnosis and treatment of male and female infertility. This position reports to the Laboratory Director and Andrology Laboratory Supervisor. Must be an excellent communicator with a strong desire to work with a team of healthcare providers. 

Schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday with rotating early start times as early as 6:30.  On-call and extra weekend shifts required.

Responsibilities and Standards:

  • Performs seminal fluid analysis
  • Performs sperm morphology
  • Prepares male partner's semen for intra-uterine insemination or in vitro fertilization
  • Prepare donor semen for intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization
  • Interacts with patients and clinicians on a daily basis
  • Maintains quality control standards
  • Performs sperm cryopreservation for client depositors and directed donors
  • Assists with testicular sperm aspiration (TESE)
  • Monitors supply inventory in assigned room
  • Serves as the communication liaison between the Andrology Lab and referring clinicians
  • Updates laboratory databases
  • Assists Director with updating of laboratory protocols
  • Assists in data collection, data entry, record keeping, and other requirements for CAP/CLIA accreditation
  • Follows policies described in the Laboratory Policy Manuals

Required Qualifications:

  • Minimum of a Bachelor degree with biological laboratory experience
  • General academic knowledge of biology, anatomy and physiology, and chemistry   
  • Requires a significant degree of eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity for manipulation of tissues and gametes under a dissecting microscope

Desirable qualifications:

  • Academic and/or working knowledge of reproductive physiology, gamete biology, tissue culture techniques and in vitro culture of mammalian preimplantation embryos
  • Work experience in clinical patient care 

Position and Application Details:

  • In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload a cover letter and resume and mark them as a relevant file to the submission.
  • Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.
  • Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references may be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
     
  • For additional questions please contact Cassie Burrill at cassie-burrill@uiowa.edu.
Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Clinical Lab Technologist I
  • Appointment Type: SEIU
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 5
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Cassie Burrill
  • Contact Email: cassie-burrill@uiowa.edu

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