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Reference Lab Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Nursing Lab Assistant

Winona, MN · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

The Nursing Lab Assistant is a part-time position at 7 hours a week. Salary Range: $22 - $27 per ... references. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota believes inclusion and human dignity contributes ...

Phlebotomist

Wadena, MN

$17.66 - $26.50/hr

Prepare specimens for transport to reference lab. * Maintains compliance with established standards, i.e., federal, state, CAP, Joint Commission, and local regulatory agencies. * Maintains compliance ...

Phlebotomist

Wadena, MN · On-site

$17.66 - $26.50/hr

Prepare specimens for transport to reference lab. * Maintains compliance with established standards, i.e., federal, state, CAP, Joint Commission, and local regulatory agencies. * Maintains compliance ...

Lab Technician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Ability to work independently, as confirmed by prior references or work history. * Strong initiative and willingness to seek out answers and solve problems proactively. * Foundational wet-lab skills ...

Travel Cath Lab Tech

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$2.3K - $3.0K/wk

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 or call ...

Scrub and ventilator management experience preferred * 1 supervisor reference required for ... Travel RN - Cath Lab/EP About American Traveler With over 25 years of experience, American Traveler ...

Nursing Lab Assistant

Winona, MN · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

The Nursing Lab Assistant is a part-time position at 7 hours a week. Salary Range: $22 - $27 per ... references. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota believes inclusion and human dignity contributes ...

Nursing Lab Assistant

Winona, MN · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

The Nursing Lab Assistant is a part-time position at 7 hours a week. Salary Range: $22 - $27 per ... references. Saint Mary's University of Minnesota believes inclusion and human dignity contributes ...

Cath Lab Registered Nurse Position for a Cath Lab Registered Nurse available. Shifts consist of ... References from prior supervisors are required during the hiring process. It is essential for ...

Showing results 21-40

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:

Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Minnesota as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Nursing Lab Assistant

Winona, MN • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist the Nursing Faculty in setting up and cleaning up equipment and supplies for lab and simulation activities.

  • Help students during the Nursing Skills Lab by demonstrating skills and supporting their mastery.

  • Follow the directions of the Nursing Faculty to operate simulation technology and act as a standardized patient or actor during simulations.


Job description

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota is seeking candidates who are eager to contribute to its Lasallian Catholic mission of awakening, nurturing, and empowering learners to ethical lives of service and leadership. We invite individuals to help transform lives through education, inspired by the Catholic Intellectual Tradition’s quest to understand the human experience through faith and reason and its embrace of all who are dedicated to learning from one another through authentic conversations in search of the truth. We are especially interested in and give preference to candidates who demonstrate a vision to create and nurture initiatives that will advance our mission within the scope of their duties and who will foster a culture of dialogue that, with respect for all people, supports the search for meaning and purpose in pursuit of excellence.

Job Summary

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is seeking a Nursing Lab Assistant who is eager to contribute to its Lasallian Catholic mission of awakening, nurturing, and empowering learners to ethical lives of service and leadership. We invite individuals to help transform lives through education, inspired by the Catholic Intellectual Tradition’s quest to understand the human experience through faith and reason and its embrace of all who are dedicated to learning from one another through authentic conversations in search of the truth. We are especially interested in and give preference to candidates who demonstrate a vision to create and nurture initiatives that will advance our mission within the scope of their duties and who will foster a culture of dialogue that, with respect for all people, supports the search for meaning and purpose in pursuit of excellence.

The Nursing Lab Assistant is a part-time position at 7 hours a week. 

Salary Range: $22 - $27 per hour 


Main Duties & Responsibilities

  • Assist the Nursing Faculty to set up equipment and supplies before the lab for the day.  

  • Assist students during the Nursing Skills Lab by demonstrating skills and helping students master the skills.

  • Assist the Nursing Faculty to setup the equipment and supplies before simulation.  

  • Follow the directions of the Nursing Faculty to help run the simulation technology during the simulation, act as a standardized patient, or actor in the simulation.

  • Assist the Nursing Faculty to clean up the equipment and supplies after simulation.  

  • Restock the simulation rooms with standard supplies and equipment.


Experience and Education Requirements

  • Healthcare experience required

  • Knowledge of anatomy and physiology; basic medical terminology

  • Familiarity with medical supplies

  • Ability to work collaboratively and effectively within a team structure

  • Excellent communication and organization skills.

  • Observes safety guidelines and follows safety procedures 

  • Demonstrated organizational skills, professionalism, innovation, mission-oriented, and student focused

  • Ability to troubleshoot simulation technology such as AV learning space, manikin operations, and other equipment.


Physical Demands

  • Light work. Light work involves lifting no more than 20 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 10 pounds. Even though the weight lifted may be very little, a job is in this category when it requires a good deal of walking or standing, or when it involves sitting most of the time with some pushing and pulling of arm or leg controls. To be considered capable of performing a full or wide range of light work, you must have the ability to do substantially all of these activities.

Physical Hazards – Health and Safety Concerns

  • Ergonomics
  • Noise
  • Chemicals
  • Biohazards

Apply online at: https://www.smumn.edu/about/offices-services/human-resources/employment-opportunities/ and include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota believes inclusion and human dignity contributes to a robust academic and work environment and is critical to achieving the University's mission in an increasingly diverse society. Individuals with expertise and diverse skills from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. The successful candidate must support, respect, and advance the mission of Saint Mary's University as a Lasallian Catholic institution.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.