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Reference Lab Jobs in Little Rock, AR (NOW HIRING)

Director of Lab Services

Cabot, AR ยท On-site

$90K - $118K/yr

Maintain lab competency and lab inspection spreadsheets ... Develop or revise laboratory policy and procedures * Assist in communicating with reference ...

Showing results 21-40

Reference Lab information

See Little Rock, AR salary details

$9

$24

$43

How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for reference lab in Little Rock, AR is $24.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $26.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does a reference lab do?

A reference lab performs specialized diagnostic testing for healthcare providers, often handling complex or high-volume tests that are sent from other laboratories or clinics. They use advanced equipment and follow strict quality standards to ensure accurate results, which are critical for diagnosis and treatment planning.

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.
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in Little Rock, AR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,371 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Lab Support Technician I - Lab Support Services

Uasys

Little Rock, AR โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Current University of Arkansas System employees, including student employees and graduate assistants, need to log in to Workday via MyApps.Microsoft.com, then access Find Jobs from the Workday search bar to view and apply for open positions. Students at University of Arkansas System will also view open positions and apply within Workday by searching for "Find Jobs for Students".
All Job Postings will close at 12:01 a.m. CT on the specified Closing Date (if designated).
If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application process will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through "My Draft Applications" located on your Candidate Home page.


Closing Date:

08/07/2026
Type of Position:Clinical Staff - Medical Ancillary Support
Job Type:Regular

Work Shift:
Shift Vary (United States of America)

Sponsorship Available:

No
Institution Name: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences


The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has a unique combination of education, research, and clinical programs that encourages and supports teamwork and diversity. We champion being a collaborative health care organization, focused on improving patient care and the lives of Arkansans.

UAMS offers amazing benefits and perks (available for benefits eligible positions only):

  • Health: Medical, Dental and Vision plans available for qualifying staff and family
  • Holiday, Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Education discount for staff and dependents (undergraduate only)
  • Retirement: Up to 10% matched contribution from UAMS
  • Basic Life Insurance up to $50,000
  • Career Training and Educational Opportunities
  • Merchant Discounts
  • Concierge prescription delivery on the main campus when using UAMS pharmacy

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click theApply link/button.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual preference, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at askrecruitment@uams.edu.


Department:ICE | LPSL Laboratory Support Services


Department's Website:


Summary of Job Duties:This position works under the supervision of the section Supervisor and Senior Tech. This position provides comprehensive support for patient care activities in the Core Lab. This positions schedule could change due to staffing issues with a two week notice. Position duties:
Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma, GED or formal education equivalent.


Additional Information:

Job Requirements:

  • Receives specimens from all sources and verifies that specimens are properly collected and labeled.
  • Ensure test is received in the correct tube type.
  • Sorts all specimens and place them in the proper racks or bucket to be received.
  • Load racks on the appropriate automation line to be received in and tested.
  • Scan specimens into the EPIC system and re-label the specimens as needed.
  • Enter orders into EPIC through requisition entry for all outside institutions.
  • Process add-on test.
  • Answers phone calls concerning results, faxing reports, specimen collection and ordering test.
  • Process timed urine specimens.
  • Reconcile packing list.
  • Process Reference, VA and ACH specimens.
  • Process mail-in specimens.
  • Scan requisitions received with labs from institutional accounts into EPIC.
  • Call critical results as needed.
  • Fill out all Safety Intelligence reports and deliver to the Core Lab Manager.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Stand: Frequently

Sit: Frequently

Walk: Occasionally

Bend, crawl, crouch, kneel, stoop or reach overhead: Frequently

Lift and carry weight: 25 lbs

Push and pull weight: 25 lbs

Use hands to touch, handle or feel: Frequently

Talk: Continuously

Hear: Continuously

Taste or smell: Occasionally

Read, concentrate, think analytically: Continuously


Salary Information:

Commensurate with education and experience


Required Documents to Apply:

Resume


Optional Documents:

Proof of Veteran Status
Special Instructions to Applicants:


Recruitment Contact Information:

Please contact askrecruitment@uams.edufor any recruiting relatedquestions.


All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.


Pre-employment Screening Requirements:Annual TB Screening, Criminal Background Check, Substance Abuse Testing


This position is subject to pre-employment screening (criminal background, drug testing, and/or education verification). A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication alone shall not disqualify an applicant except as provided by law. Any criminal history will be evaluated in relationship to job responsibilities and business necessity. The information obtained in these reports will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.


Constant Physical Activity:Hearing, Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Repetitive Motion
Frequent Physical Activity:Standing, Talking, Walking
Occasional Physical Activity:Crawling, Crouching, Kneeling, Reaching, Sitting, Stooping
Benefits Eligible:Yes