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Reference Lab Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

St. Clair Hospital

Lead Phlebotomist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

... reference lab, and registration systems. Minimum Qualifications * High school graduate or equivalent. * Recent completion of at least one of the following: * Approved phlebotomy training or related ...

St. Clair Hospital

Lead Phlebotomist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

... reference lab, and registration systems. Minimum Qualifications * High school graduate or equivalent. * Recent completion of at least one of the following: * Approved phlebotomy training or related ...

St. Clair Hospital

Phlebotomist Travel #8697

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

... reference lab and registration systems. Minimum Qualifications * High school graduate or equivalent. * Recent completion of at least one of the following: * Approved phlebotomy training or related ...

St. Clair Hospital

Phlebotomist Travel #8697

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

... reference lab and registration systems. Minimum Qualifications * High school graduate or equivalent. * Recent completion of at least one of the following: * Approved phlebotomy training or related ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens, slides, and/or blocks. * Performs Digital pathology slide scanning and instrument maintenance. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens, slides, and/or blocks. * Performs Digital pathology slide scanning and instrument maintenance. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens, slides, and/or blocks. * Performs Digital pathology slide scanning and instrument maintenance. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens, slides, and/or blocks. * Performs Digital pathology slide scanning and instrument maintenance. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens, slides, and/or blocks. * Performs Digital pathology slide scanning and instrument maintenance. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens, slides, and/or blocks. * Performs Digital pathology slide scanning and instrument maintenance. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job ...

American Family Care Narberth

Medical Assistant

Narberth, PA · On-site

$17 - $21.75/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

HNL Lab Medicine

Technical Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

$37K - $43K/yr

Sends out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens, slides, and/or blocks. * Performs frozen section staining and slide preparation. QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully ...

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Reference Lab information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$9

$25

$45

How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for reference lab in Pennsylvania is $25.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $27.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
Reference Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,642 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Lead Laboratory Aide, Anatomic Pathology

St. Luke's University Health Network

Bethlehem, PA • On-site

$15 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

St. Luke's is proud of the skills, experience and compassion of its employees. The employees of St. Luke's are our most valuable asset! Individually and together, our employees are dedicated to satisfying the mission of our organization which is an unwavering commitment to excellence as we care for the sick and injured; educate physicians, nurses and other health care providers; and improve access to care in the communities we serve, regardless of a patient's ability to pay for health care.This is a working lead position: Oversees the coordination of duties and workflow performed by the laboratory aides. Responsible for registration of laboratory orders, billing of reference lab testing and assigned work ques, and scanning in reports to medical record. Ensures turnaround time and quality standards are upheld by laboratory aides. Requires critical thinking skills and independent judgement in performance. Rapid response lead lab aides would have regional responsibilities. ASSISTS PATHOLOGISTS WITH PROCEDURES.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:


1. Oversees the coordination of duties and workflow performed by lab aides. Ensures network standardization of processes.
2. Responsible for billing reference lab and miscellaneous tests, assigned work ques.
3. Scans reports into the patient medical record as needed.
4. Ensures turnaround time standards are adhered and quality of specimen is maintained by staff.
5. Responsible for orientation and training of staff. Maintains staff competency. Educates staff on policies and procedures as needed.
6. Responsible for the monthly schedule as needed.
7. Performs the essential functions of lab aide II and assists staff as necessary.
8. Communicates as necessary with other health care departments within and outside of the hospital utilizing AIDET.
9. Troubleshoots and resolves workque issues.
10. Ensures maintenance and quality checks are performed appropriately.

11. Other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL AND SENSORY REQUIREMENTS:


Sitting up to 7 hours per day in 2 hour increments. Standing up to 5 hours per day in 2 hour
increments. Walking up to 7 hours per day in short increments. Frequently uses fingers to
manipulate small vials, pipetting, etc. Continuous use of hands for operation of laboratory
equipment and computer keyboard. Occasional lifting of boxes/equipment up to 30 pounds.
Occasional pushing/pulling of equipment. Frequent stooping/bending. Occasional crouching.
Frequent reaching above shoulder level and stretching across work area (30" depth). Hearing as
it relates to normal, high, and low frequencies. Seeing as it relates to general, far, near, color and
peripheral vision. Depth perception.

EDUCATION:


High School Diploma

Please complete your application using your full legal name andcurrent home address. Be sure toincludeemployment history forthe past seven (7) years, including your present employer. Additionally, you areencouraged to upload a current resume, including all work history, education, and/or certifications andlicenses, if applicable. It is highly recommended that you create a profile at the conclusion of submitting your first application. Thank you for your interest in St. Luke's!!

St. Luke's University Health Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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