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Reference Lab Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

CEDENT

LIMS Administrator (Durham, NC)

Durham, NC · On-site

Manage EDI reference codes and result codes, ensuring accurate mappings and integration within LIMS processes. System Enhancements & Testing: Collaborate with Lab operations teams to gather ...

CEDENT

LIMS Administrator

Durham, NC · On-site

Manage EDI reference codes and result codes, ensuring accurate mappings and integration within LIMS processes. * System Enhancements & Testing: Collaborate with Lab operations teams to gather ...

Cedent

LIMS Administrator (Durham, NC)

Durham, NC · On-site

Manage EDI reference codes and result codes, ensuring accurate mappings and integration within LIMS processes. * System Enhancements & Testing: Collaborate with Lab operations teams to gather ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsReference Lab JobsReference Lab Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Reference Lab information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

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$43

How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for reference lab in Raleigh, NC is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $27.12 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 Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,050 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist III (Day Shift)

Lighthouse Lab Services

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Lighthouse Lab Services is representing a leading healthcare organization in Raleigh, NC that is seeking an experienced Medical Laboratory Scientist III (MLS III) to join its laboratory team.

This opportunity is ideal for an experienced laboratory professional with strong clinical laboratory experience and a background in moderate- and high-complexity testing. TB/Mycology experience is preferred. The MLS III will serve as a senior technical resource within the laboratory, supporting daily operations, quality initiatives, troubleshooting, and staff development.

Schedule

  • Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM

  • Full-time schedule

Position Overview

The Medical Laboratory Scientist III (MLS III) is responsible for performing and overseeing moderate- and high-complexity clinical laboratory testing while serving as a technical resource and leader within the department.

This position requires strong technical knowledge, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in a high-quality laboratory environment. The MLS III will assist with troubleshooting complex testing issues, ensuring compliance with laboratory policies and regulatory requirements, supporting quality initiatives, and providing guidance and mentorship to other laboratory staff.

Experience in TB/Mycology testing is preferred, along with a strong understanding of clinical laboratory procedures and practices.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform moderate- and high-complexity clinical laboratory testing accurately and efficiently

  • Analyze, verify, and report patient results in accordance with established laboratory procedures

  • Serve as a senior technical resource for laboratory staff and provide guidance on complex testing and troubleshooting

  • Assist with troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation, testing procedures, and workflow issues

  • Perform and document quality control and quality assurance activities

  • Monitor testing processes to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with established standards

  • Support laboratory compliance with CAP, CLIA, and other applicable regulatory requirements

  • Assist with the development, review, and implementation of laboratory procedures and policies

  • Participate in validation, verification, and implementation of new testing methodologies and instrumentation as needed

  • Assist with staff training, competency assessments, and ongoing technical development

  • Provide leadership and direction to laboratory staff as needed to support daily operations

  • Identify opportunities to improve laboratory workflow, efficiency, quality, and patient safety

  • Maintain accurate documentation and ensure proper specimen handling and processing

  • Support department leadership with operational and technical initiatives

  • Maintain a strong focus on patient safety, quality, and specimen integrity

Qualifications

Education

A Bachelor's Degree in one of the following fields is required:

  • Medical Technology

  • Life Science

  • Clinical Laboratory Science

  • Anthropology

Experience

  • Minimum of 3 years of clinical laboratory experience required

  • Experience performing moderate- and high-complexity testing required

  • 2 years of leadership experience preferred

  • TB/Mycology experience preferred

  • Strong technical knowledge and demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex laboratory issues

Certifications

Required certifications include:

  • ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology)

  • Equivalent national laboratory certification

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive hourly compensation

  • Monday–Friday, day-shift schedule

  • Opportunity to work with an established and respected healthcare organization

  • Collaborative laboratory environment

  • Opportunity to serve in a senior technical and leadership capacity

About Us

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 22 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry-level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual

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