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Reference Laboratory Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Reference Test Clerk

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$37K - $40K/yr

Labcorpis seeking a Reference Test Clerk to join our teamin Phoenix AZ Work Schedule: Tuesday ... Prepare laboratory specimens for various analysis and testing * Research, troubleshoot and resolve ...

Inputs laboratory orders for El Rio and reference laboratories in electronic health record system or laboratory information system. * Retrieves patient results from all laboratories systems upon ...

Phlebotomist - Cherrybell - Laboratory

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Inputs laboratory orders for El Rio and reference laboratories in electronic health record system or laboratory information system. * Retrieves patient results from all laboratories systems upon ...

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Reference Laboratory information

See Arizona salary details

$39.6K

$90.2K

$137K

How much do reference laboratory jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference laboratory in Arizona is $90,192.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,600.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a reference laboratory do?

A reference laboratory performs specialized testing and analysis on biological samples to confirm diagnoses, support public health, and ensure quality control. Staff typically have advanced training in laboratory science and use specialized equipment to conduct accurate and reliable tests. These labs often collaborate with healthcare providers and regulatory agencies.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI technology can automate certain tasks in a reference laboratory, such as data analysis and sample processing, but it is unlikely to fully replace lab technicians. Human expertise is essential for tasks requiring critical thinking, manual skills, and oversight to ensure accuracy and safety. Lab technicians will continue to play a vital role alongside AI tools, often focusing on complex procedures and quality control.

Who gets paid more, MLT or MLS?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) typically earn less than Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) because MLS roles usually require a bachelor's degree and more advanced training. MLS professionals often have higher salaries due to their greater responsibilities, education, and certification requirements in the laboratory setting.

What is a Reference Laboratory job?

A Reference Laboratory job typically involves performing specialized diagnostic testing that may not be available in a standard clinical laboratory. Professionals in this field analyze complex specimens, ensure accuracy and quality control, and provide critical data for medical diagnosis and treatment. These labs often handle tests referred by hospitals, clinics, and physicians that require advanced equipment and expertise. Employees may work in roles such as laboratory technicians, technologists, or scientists, depending on their qualifications and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Reference Laboratory position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Reference Laboratory position, you need a strong background in laboratory sciences, attention to detail, and expertise in diagnostic testing, usually supported by a degree in medical laboratory science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), automated analyzers, and relevant certifications like ASCP or equivalent are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills help professionals excel in this environment. These abilities are vital for ensuring accurate, timely results and maintaining quality standards essential for patient care and research.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of professionals working in a Reference Laboratory?

As a Reference Laboratory professional, your daily responsibilities generally include performing specialized diagnostic tests, analyzing specimens, validating test results, and maintaining accurate records in laboratory systems. You may also be responsible for operating and troubleshooting complex laboratory equipment, adhering to strict quality control protocols, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Collaboration with physicians, researchers, and other laboratory personnel is common to ensure that test results are interpreted accurately and delivered promptly. These tasks help maintain the high accuracy and reliability that medical providers and patients depend on in specialized testing.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest paying roles are often senior positions such as Laboratory Directors or Chief Scientific Officers, who oversee operations and research. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the organization and location.
What are the most commonly searched types of Reference Laboratory jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Reference Laboratory jobs in Arizona are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Laboratory jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Reference Laboratory jobs in Arizona are:

Medical Laboratory Technician

Tohono O'odham Nation Healthcare

Sells, AZ โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

PLEASE NOTE - This position may require temporarily relocation to other TONHC Facilities: Sells Hospital, Santa Rosa Health Center, San Simon Health Center, and San Xavier Health Center.

Position Summary:

Work performed includes patient venipuncture, limited examination of specimens, cell morphologies, and specimen plating, all of which are for patient diagnosis and treatment. Work also includes maintaining test records and laboratory stock inventory.

Scope of Work:

This position is located in the Medical Laboratory Services division of the Tohono O'odham Nation Sells Hospital in Sells, AZ. The Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) works under the direct supervision of the Clinical Laboratory Scientist and the Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist. Services provided by the Medical Laboratory Technician facilitate and confirm the physician and medical staff's diagnosis and facilitate the continuity of patient care and positive patient outcomes. These services include routine, non-routine, and specialized, highly complex testing.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (Depending on the area of assignment, an incumbent may not be required to perform some of the duties listed below):

  • Performs a complete variety of laboratory tests and examinations while duplicating tests for quality control and patient testing to include the fields of Chemistry, Immunohematology, Immunochemistry, POC testing, Urinalysis, Blood Gas, and Coagulation.
  • Perform cell morphologies on urine and other body fluids.
  • Performs quality control procedures on equipment, reagents, and products and maintains proper records for quality control reports.
  • Perform vein-puncture (phlebotomy) in the laboratory, ER, and inpatient wards.
  • Prepare reagents, calibrators, solutions, and primary reference materials as applicable.
  • Performs calibrations and maintains instruments, and verifies correct instrument operation using established procedures and quality control checks. Identifies the cause of common problems and makes simple repairs.
  • Accept referrals of abnormal or unusual results from Reference Laboratory and processes according to policy.
  • Operates instruments in Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis, and Coagulation with minimal supervision and asks for assistance as needed to Lead Clinical Laboratory Scientist or Supervisory Clinical Laboratory Scientist.
  • Assist in maintaining the general clean, hygienic appearance and stock supplies of the laboratory.
  • Contribute to a team effort.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
  • Knowledge of health care and diagnosis necessary to coordinate with and discuss results of tests with physicians or other professionals for whom tests and functions are performed.
  • Sufficient skill and initiative to maintain a high degree of cleanliness and hygiene and general upkeep of the laboratory.
  • Knowledge of health care and diagnosis is necessary to coordinate with and discuss tests results with physicians or other professionals for whom tests and functions are performed.
  • Knowledge and skill to operate within a quality control system and a proficiency testing program.
  • Knowledge and skills in Hematology, Immunohematology, Chemistry, Immunochemistry, blood gas, Coagulation, and urinalysis and minimal Microbiology such as gram stains to identify acceptable specimens and suitability for analysis.
  • Thorough knowledge of the Privacy Act of 1974 mandates the incumbent to maintain the confidentiality of all administrative, medical, and personnel records.
  • Knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, Public Law 104-191 (HIPAA).

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Associate's Degree in Clinical Medical Laboratory, or closely related, or 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a college/university accredited by a recognized regional or national accreditation agency, in any science subjects, and one-year work experience in a medical laboratory setting.

Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements:

  • Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), American Medical Technologist (AMT), or American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB), preferred.
  • Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background and a National FBI fingerprint check are required to determine suitability for employment, including a 39-month driving record.
  • May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
  • If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
  • Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham language and English as a condition of employment.