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Reference Lab Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Trinityhealth

Histology Assistant

Mason City, IA

Unpacks reference lab specimens and registers them in the hospital registration system with accuracy, differentiating billing scenarios for client and insurance types. * Links patient medical record ...

Trinity Health

Lab Supervisor

Oelwein, IA · On-site

Maintains reference lab interfaces and QC/QI databases. * Serves as a resource to staff for LIS training/issues. * Understands and addressesimpactof changes on other applications. Tracks ...

Trinityhealth

Lab Supervisor

Oelwein, IA

Maintains reference lab interfaces and QC/QI databases. * Serves as a resource to staff for LIS training/issues. * Understands and addressesimpactof changes on other applications. Tracks ...

Trinity Health

Lab Supervisor

Oelwein, IA · On-site

Maintains reference lab interfaces and QC/QI databases. * Serves as a resource to staff for LIS training/issues. * Understands and addresses impact of changes on other applications. Tracks and ...

Talent4Health

Travel Cath Lab Technologist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$2.2K - $2.9K/wk

Talent4Health is seeking a travel Cath Lab Technologist for a travel job in Des Moines, Iowa ... Professional Reference/Reference Check - charge/supervisor/nurse manager/director/CNO/COO ...

Acro Service Corporation

Lab Technician

Johnston, IA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We are seeking a Lab Technician to join our team! You will be responsible for performing medical ... Properly record results for further analysis and easy reference * Monitor inventory samples and ...

ADN Healthcare

RN - Cardiac Cath Lab

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$2.4K - $3.3K/wk

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

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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 Jul 24, 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.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,327 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Histology Assistant

Trinityhealth

Mason City, IA

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Employment Type:Full timeShift:Day ShiftDescription:

Supports the histology gross room and histology department in accessioning surgical specimens and biopsies, registration of reference lab histology specimens, inventory control, technical and clerical support.

  • Accessions surgical pathology specimens and biopsies in the Anatomic Pathology Information System. In doing so, chooses appropriate part type based on specimen description and interprets physician's hand written diagnosis.

  • Selects and labels correct color and number of cassette for specimen type. Labels with appropriate case number.

  • Enters extra billing charge if additional part is in the same container as another part type.

  • Unpacks reference lab specimens and registers them in the hospital registration system with accuracy, differentiating billing scenarios for client and insurance types.

  • Links patient medical record numbers as related to pathology specimen accessions and past patient history on the pathology information system.

  • Compiles night batches for histology

  • Ability to problem solve a variety of situations related to histology accessioning including but not limited to part types, encounter issues, date or name discrepancies.

  • Files histology and cytology slides

  • Assists with inventory control and cost containment as related to supplies in histology, the gross room, and morgue.

  • Operates computer equipment and software programs relative to performance of essential job functions and other laboratory related requirements.

  • Assists pathologist in frozen sections, including staining of slides, and performs Histology support tasks as assigned.

  • Answers phone calls and, when indicated, transfers phone calls to the appropriate section of the laboratory.

  • Communicates with and performs duties following MercyOne - North Iowa Medical Center Guiding Behaviors.

  • Supports and abides by all medical center, departmental, and safety policies and procedures. Proactively identifies safety concerns surrounding the work environment.

  • Acts in a professional manner reflecting the mission, philosophy and values of MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center.

  • Performs other responsibilities as requested by Pathologist, Path Assistant, Regional Laboratory Manager, Histology Lead Tech, Clinical Lab Director

Schedule: Full Time Days

General Requirements:

  • A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent is required.

  • Medical assistant diploma is preferred. Educational transcript is required for verification.

  • Medical terminology or must be willing to obtain within 6 months from hire.

  • Six months experience in a laboratory setting preferred

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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