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How much do reference lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for reference lab in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 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.
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What states have the most Reference Lab jobs?

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Reference Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Lab job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Scientist III - Reference Lab

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Little Rock, AR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 620 rated colleges and universities

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:
09/10/2026
Type of Position:
Clinical Staff - Clinical Support
Job Type:
Regular
Work Shift:
Day Shift (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 the Apply 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 CPATH Reference Lab
Department's Website:
Summary of Job Duties:
The Medical Laboratory Scientist III will send out specimens to referral laboratories according to hospital and laboratory policies and in accordance with state and federal regulations. Enters results from referral laboratories into the laboratory information system. Assists clients with ordering the correct reference tests and performs research into potential new referral laboratories. Consults with pathologists and other experts as needed for reference test requests. Assists with inventory needs. Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences, Biology, or related field.
  • 3 years of experience in a clinical laboratory setting

Preferred Qualifications:
  • DOT/IOTA certification, ASCP certified or equivalent in at least one laboratory specialty

Additional Information:
Job Requirements:
  • Use patient identifiers to match information on requisition and labels.
  • Order specimens, print labels, status specimens, complete requisitions
  • Work with referral labs to resolve any questions or problems with specimens.
  • Notify clients of any test cancellations.
  • Obtain results from referral labs.
  • Enter results from referral labs into the patient chart.
  • Works closely daily with internal clinic or hospital staff and various departments to resolve issues with patient blood draws.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality when necessary.
  • Contacts the appropriate provider if a patient does not have active lab orders in EPIC or if there are questions about patient orders.
  • Work with clients to clarify orders, obtain requisitions, and coordinate specimens with special collection or shipping instructions.
  • Gather all specimens for send out to Reference Labs.
  • Assure adequate inventory of shipping supplies and order supplies as needed.
  • Distribute supplies to clients as needed. Utilizes proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to ensure personal safety.
  • Exercises all laboratory safety precautions and adheres to lab procedures as stated in procedure manuals.
  • Identify possible causes of routine problems and develops a plan for resolving those problems, escalating issues to the direct supervisor as needed.
  • Works with referral laboratories to coordinate receiving special collection containers.
  • Works with referral laboratories to resolve patient collection issues, including in some cases arranging for mobile phlebotomy.
  • Perform other duties as needed.

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
Physical Environment: Inside Medical Facility Environment
Salary Information:
Commensurate with education and experience
Required Documents to Apply:
Resume
Optional Documents:
License or Certificate (see special instructions for submission instructions), Proof of Veteran Status, Unofficial/Official Transcript(s)
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Recruitment Contact Information:
Please contact askrecruitment@uams.edu for any recruiting related questions.
All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://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:
Feeling, Grasping, Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding
Frequent Physical Activity:
Hearing, Repetitive Motion, Sharps, Sitting, Standing, Talking, Walking
Occasional Physical Activity:
Crouching, Kneeling, Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping
Benefits Eligible:
Yes

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