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Reference Lab Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Veterinarian

Brentwood, TN ยท On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Reference lab partnerships with Antech and IDEXX * Digital radiography * 4 large, wellโ€‘equipped exam rooms with teaching aids and screens for client education and live diagnostic review * Onโ€‘site ...

New

Phlebotomist

Athens, TN ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Process and route specimens to the correct internal lab departments or reference laboratories according to policy. * Maintain par levels of collection supplies; complete weekly departmental ...

Process and route specimens to the correct internal lab departments or reference laboratories according to policy. * Maintain par levels of collection supplies; complete weekly departmental ...

Medical Assistant

Athens, TN ยท On-site

$15.50 - $17/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

Cath Lab Tech

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$2.4K/wk

Job Reference #: 64538017 Our Client is currently seeking a Cath Lab Tech for a position in Knoxville, TN. 4x10 Days shift. You must hold a current, unrestricted State Licensure and possess at least ...

Medical Assistant

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$15.50 - $17/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

Medical Assistant

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$15.50 - $17/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

Medical Assistant

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Draw blood and process labs (in-house and reference lab) * Administer medications and injections per protocol * Perform drug screens, physicals, and occupational medicine services * Prepare and clean ...

Medical Assistant

Knoxville, TN ยท 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

Medical Assistant

Hixson, TN ยท On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/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

Showing results 41-60

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.
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Tennessee 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.

Lab Assistant - Cardiovascular Technology (Invasive)

Tennessee Board of Regents

Kingsport, TN โ€ข On-site

$25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Lab Assistant - Cardiovascular Technology (Invasive)

Apply now Job no: 504632
Work type: Temporary
Location: Kingsport
Categories: Student or Temporary Jobs

Title: Lab Assistant - Cardiovascular Technology (Invasive)

Employee Classification:ย Part-time/Temporary

Institution:ย Northeast State Community College

Department: Health Professions

Campus Location: Northeast State at Kingsport

Salary:ย $25.00 per hour; Up to 27 hours per week

Job Summary

Reporting to the Dean of Health Professions, the Cardiovascular (Invasive) Lab Assistant assists with the preparation and clean-up of laboratory and provides instruction and support to students at the assigned clinical site and/or campus lab.

Job Duties

  • Assist with the preparation and clean-up of the laboratory
  • Assist students at the assigned clinical site and/or lab on campus
  • Provide oversight of clinical experiences for students enrolled in the Program, travel to clinical sites two to three days a week as needed
  • Adhere to applicable accreditation commission standards or agencies regulations, the college's policies and procedures, and the Program's curricula
  • Provide competent, consistent, and safe instructions to the students
  • Demonstrate professional attitudes and behavior in the following areas:
    • Appearance
    • Timeliness
    • Adherence to policies and standards
    • Management of conflict
    • Ethical judgment
    • Self-directed learning for professional growth
    • Interactions with patients, public and health care professionals
  • Support instructor using appropriate techniques related to adult learning to include:
    • Demonstrations
    • Skills training
    • Quizzing and discussion
  • Provide basic counseling and support skills to facilitate learning and progress
  • Assist in evaluating the student's performance according to established standards and criteria
  • Maintain communication with Northeast State Community College Program Director and instructors
  • Provide appropriate level of supervision to student in clinical setting
  • Complete other assignments as directed by supervision

Minimum Qualifications

AAS degree in Cardiovascular Technology or related field from an accredited institution
Registered Cardiac Invasive Specialist (RCIS) licensure through an accredited national credentialing organization

Preferred Qualifications

One or more years of teaching experience
One or more years of related work experience in Cath Lab
Conversational ability or fluency in a second language

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Technology Skills: MS Office suite; digital records management systems; general operating systems and data information systems
Ability to communicate with individuals from a wide range of diverse socioeconomic backgrounds (students, family, staff, governmental officials), both orally and in writing
Capable of managing time and workload to meet strategic planning, budgeting, and any other assigned deadlines
Dependability
Responsive to primary stakeholders' requests
Professional demeanor, communication, and attire
Proficient functioning in a team-oriented environment

For assistance regarding the job ad, application process, or application status, please contact the Office of Human Resources at 423-323-0204 or HRstaffing@northeaststate.edu.

Special Instructions to Applicants: To be considered for a position at Northeast State, you must create an online application. A resume and unofficial transcripts are required; a cover letter is optional. You will also be required to provide the contact information for a minimum of three (3) professional references. If you are selected for an interview your references WILL be automatically contacted. Your skills, abilities, qualifications, and years of experience will be evaluated using only what is recorded on your application. Please note that attaching a resume does not substitute for completion of the application form. Part-time work experience is calculated at 50% of full-time experience.

Advertised: 13 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 27 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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