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Reference Lab Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Transcribes reference Lab results. * Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports. * Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education ...

Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Transcribes reference Lab results. * Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports. * Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education ...

Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Harriman, TN · On-site

Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports. Minimum Education: None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient ...

Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Harriman, TN · On-site

Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports. Qualifications Minimum Education: None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work ...

Covenant Health

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Lenoir City, TN · On-site

Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports. * Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward ...

New

Covenant Health

LAB ASSISTANT

Sevierville, TN · On-site

Responsible for use of HIS, LIS and reference lab computer systems (i.e. Mayo, SLI, etc.) as appropriate for specific hospital facility. * Knowledgeable of manual systems for ordering, collection ...

Covenant Health

LAB ASSISTANT

Sevierville, TN · On-site

Responsible for use of HIS, LIS and reference lab computer systems (i.e. Mayo, SLI, etc.) as appropriate for specific hospital facility. * Knowledgeable of manual systems for ordering, collection ...

Covenant Health

LAB ASSISTANT

Sevierville, TN · On-site

Responsible for use of HIS, LIS and reference lab computer systems (i.e. Mayo, SLI, etc.) as appropriate for specific hospital facility. * Knowledgeable of manual systems for ordering, collection ...

Covenant Health

LAB ASSISTANT

Sevierville, TN · On-site

Responsible for use of HIS, LIS and reference lab computer systems (i.e. Mayo, SLI, etc.) as appropriate for specific hospital facility. * Knowledgeable of manual systems for ordering, collection ...

Covenant Health

LAB ASSISTANT

Morristown, TN · On-site

Responsible for use of HIS, LIS and reference lab computer systems (i.e. Mayo, etc.) as appropriate for specific hospital facility. * Knowledgeable of manual systems for ordering, collection ...

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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.
Reference Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

SR LAB ASSISTANT

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Covenant Health
See more jobs at Covenant Healthexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Overview
Senior Lab Assistant
Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift
Fort Sanders Regional Overview:
Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is a 444-bed hospital recognized for pairing clinical expertise with advanced medical technology to deliver exceptional care. As a Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center, we provide leading-edge treatment for stroke recovery. Our facility also offers specialized services in bariatric surgery, robotic surgery, minimally invasive spine procedures, and advanced orthopedic care.
Fort Sanders Regional is part of Covenant Health, East Tennessee's largest nonprofit health system and a Becker's "Top 150 Places to Work in Healthcare." Covenant Health includes nine hospitals and nearly 150 service locations, offering employees a comprehensive benefits package with tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, certification bonuses, and leadership development programs.
Position Summary:
An employee in this position must be able to perform at an advanced level in the following areas: collection and proper handling of venous and capillary specimens as appropriate; registration of outpatients in a timely, safe, and courteous manner; registration of patients, Lab contracts, and specimens ensuring that all registration data is accurate and complete; prepares, checks for accuracy, and implements charting of Laboratory, Pathology, and Imaging reports as needed. Must be able to perform duties of Lab Assistant.
Responsibilities
  • Assists in the orientation and training of new and existing employees.
  • Responsible for care, maintenance, trouble-shooting, and notification of the Manager when equipment is in need of repair or replacement (i.e., laser printers, line printers, fax machines, copying machines, etc.).
  • Responsible for maintaining proper inventory of supplies by monitoring and ordering supplies through the Matkon system as needed.
  • Responsible for the daily quality review of written physician's orders to detect errors in test orders, diagnosis, physician's name, insurance coverage, etc., and timely correction of errors.
  • At times collects co-payments/deposits, generates receipts to the payer, and reconciles cash/credit card transactions on a daily basis.
  • Responsible for the generation, verification, submission, and posting of contract billing.
  • Assists with other duties as assigned by the Laboratory Manager to include: scheduling, payroll, ordering of supplies, etc.
  • Assists in the implementation and evaluation of new projects including the development of policies and procedures.
  • Transcribes reference Lab results.
  • Responsible for checking and follow-up of incomplete reference Lab reports.
  • Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Minimum Education:
None specified; will accept any combination of formal education and/or prior work experience sufficient to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skill, and ability needed to perform the essential tasks of the job, typically such as would be equivalent to a high school diploma or GED. Preference may be given to individuals possessing a HS diploma or GED.
Minimum Experience:
None
Licensure Requirement:
Employee must have a valid Tennessee driver's license and state mandated minimum insurance coverage. Driving record must meet Covenant Health minimum standards at the date of hire and throughout employment tenure.

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