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Reference Lab Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Metallurgical Lab Technician

Audubon, MN · On-site

$18.50 - $27.50/hr

To operate and maintain Metallurgical Lab in compliance with the Quality Management System ... Reference OJT Physical Demands * Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 30 lbs., and ...

... ad hoc references as needed. They will be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the lab in compliance with Cargill Food Safety, EHS, and PPE policies, completing the Master Sanitation ...

Laboratory Care Technician

Hibbing, MN · On-site

$18.88 - $25.06/hr

The hospital lab at Fairview Range provides 24/7 support for Fairview Range Medical Center and the ... Processes specimens prior to testing or sending to reference labs * Performs daily quality control ...

The hospital lab at Fairview Range provides 24/7 support for Fairview Range Medical Center and the ... Processes specimens prior to testing or sending to reference labs * Performs daily quality control ...

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Reference Lab information

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Reference Lab jobs in Minnesota? For Reference Lab jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Lab jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Lab jobs in Minnesota are:
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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Metallurgical Lab Technician

Metallurgical Lab Technician

TEAM INDUSTRIES

Audubon, MN • On-site

$18.50 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
Purpose: To operate and maintain Metallurgical Lab in compliance with the Quality Management System.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Ensure a safe work environment for self and others. Follows all safety rules and regulations. Demonstrate commitment to safety program.
  • Audit daily on-site heat treating and work with heat treating personnel to maintain Audubon heat treating integrity
  • Audit shipments from heat treating subcontractors.
  • General lab work: cutting, mounting, polishing of metallurgical samples, hardness testing, carbon shim analysis, case depth measurement, and microscopy.
  • Examine and revise the Met Lab sampling plan for auditing heat treaters on a part-by-part basis.
  • Keep and file records of metallurgical inspections.
  • Coordinate third party calibration of MetLab precision measuring instruments through the TEAM-Audubon Calibration Coordinator
  • Review, approve and file heat-treat and material certifications.
  • Maintain the SPC charts for each carburizing furnace with test pin data and advise if furnace corrections are required.
  • Perform scheduled review of the Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI), recording and maintaining inspection records
  • Utilizes the 5-S principles (sort, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain) to maintain an orderly, clean and safe work area.
  • Assist in finding answers to metallurgical questions.
  • Maintain Met lab equipment and stock of consumable supplies.
  • Advise TEAM CML of changes or concerns regarding materials or heat-treating issues.
  • Demonstrate commitment to the TEAM Industries Quality Management system and Objectives.
  • Promote a positive atmosphere. Actively support activities that promote the welfare and morale of TEAM employees.
  • Will be required to perform other duties as requested, directed or assigned.

Requirements
Minimum Requirements:
Education & Experience:
  • 2-year technical school and/or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred
  • Computer Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint) operating skills preferred
  • Knowledge of ISO 9000 preferred

Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Regular attendance
  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn Metallurgical principals and applicable processes
  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn and operate Metallurgical Lab equipment
  • Strong Problem Solving abilities
  • Detail oriented
  • Must have a valid driver's license with a good driving record. Must be on the TEAM drivers' list. Able to travel, overnight, if necessary, for advanced training, visiting other TEAM locations and suppliers

Training:
  • Completion of OJT requirements
  • QMS Training
  • Reference OJT

Physical Demands
  • Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 30 lbs., and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand or sit up to 100% of shift
  • Ability to do repetitive movements (i.e., bending, twisting, walking)
  • Ability to use microscopes for extended periods.
  • Able to work continuously a minimum of 3 hours

See Functional Job Description for complete demands