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Reference Lab Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Ridgeview

Lab Assistant

Waconia, MN

Effectively performs specimen processing tasks including receiving, batching and reference lab processing. Minimum Education/Work Experience * High School graduate or equivalent Knowledge/Skills ...

Ridgeview

Lab Assistant

Waconia, MN · On-site

Effectively performs specimen processing tasks including receiving, batching and reference lab processing. Minimum Education/Work Experience * High School graduate or equivalent Knowledge/Skills ...

Ridgeview

Lab Assistant

Waconia, MN · On-site

$19.86 - $27.85/hr

Effectively performs specimen processing tasks including receiving, batching and reference lab processing. Minimum Education/Work Experience * High School graduate or equivalent Knowledge/Skills ...

Talencia

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

Blaine, MN · On-site

$23.66 - $33/hr

Prepares and packages samples for reference lab. * Stocks, rotates, and requests supplies as needed. * Performs waived/moderate lab tests per policy for diagnosis, treatment, and quality checks.

Mercy

Medical Technologist I -PRN

Anoka, MN · On-site

Evening, Night, Holiday, Weekend Main/Reference Lab Department Minimum Qualifications Education: Associate's degree. Certifications: MLT or MLS certification or obtained within 6 months of hire OR ...

American Family Care

Medical Assistant

Hopkins, MN · On-site

$18 - $23/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

American Family Care

Medical Assistant .5 FTE

MN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/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

KurzSolutions

Medical Lab Technologist

Ogema, MN

... reference testing, and microbiology. * Maintain records for all laboratory functions, including ... The Medical Lab Technologist assists in emergency situations such as cardiac arrests, including ...

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Reference Lab information

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a reference laboratory technician?

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 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 does a reference lab do?

A reference lab is a specialized laboratory that performs complex or specialized diagnostic tests that are often not available at standard labs. They process samples from healthcare providers, using advanced equipment and techniques, and typically require trained personnel and quality certifications to ensure accurate results.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Reference Lab jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Reference Lab job openings:

Reference Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Lab Assistant

Ridgeview

Waconia, MN

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Ridgeview Medical Center rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Schedule: Day shift with Day Shift weekend and holiday rotation.

Purpose of Job

This position is responsible for serving both internal and external customers by performing a variety of laboratory procedures in accordance with Ridgeview Medical Center philosophy, policies and procedures and in accordance with all regulatory agencies. Also, responsible for assisting front desk staff with customer service needs and for providing a variety of support functions to the clinical laboratory personnel.

Job Functions

  1. Collects proper specimen using a variety of techniques including but not limited to venipuncture and infant heel sticks according to procedure and processes, tests and reports specimen results.
  2. Performs EKG testing.
  3. Assists front desk staff with customer service needs for outpatients and clinical laboratory personnel.
  4. Assists with the training and orientation of new staff and visiting students.
  5. Performs other duties as assigned.
  6. Effectively performs specimen processing tasks including receiving, batching and reference lab processing.

Minimum Education/Work Experience

  • High School graduate or equivalent

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Ability to meet and maintain the necessary background checks as aligned with position functions
  • Knowledge of basic computer functions and Microsoft Office applications
  • Ability to respond appropriately to unpredictable situations and diverse patient populations
  • Ability to communicate in the English language for effective written and verbal correspondence in order to complete job functions as mentioned above
  • Ability to work autonomously and as a team

Preferred Qualifications

  • EKG training or experience
  • Phlebotomy training or experience
  • Medical Assistant, EMT or previous laboratory experience
  • Certification in Phlebotomy (ASCP) or Certified Medical Assistant and kept current according to ASCP standards

Link to Employee Health Physical Demands

Compensation

Many factors are taken into consideration when determining compensation such as: the requirements of the position, experience, education, knowledge, and skills along with location and internal equity. Pay listed does not include any shift, weekend, or other differentials.

Benefits

Ridgeview strives to provide comprehensive and market competitive benefits to meet the needs of our employees and their families. Click here to view the benefits available.

What Ridgeview Medical Center employees say

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Benefits

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