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Reference Laboratory Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Reference Laboratory information

See Michigan salary details

$37K

$84.4K

$128.1K

How much do reference laboratory jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference laboratory in Michigan is $84,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $114,600.00 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Reference Laboratory jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Reference Laboratory jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Reference Laboratory job openings:
Infographic showing various Reference Laboratory job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,356 per year, or $40.6 per hour.
Harper Stat Laboratory Supervisor FT Days

Harper Stat Laboratory Supervisor FT Days

Tenet Healthcare Corporation

Detroit, MI

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Tenet Healthcare rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 339 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

727th of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

DMC University Laboratories (DMCUL) is a regional, integrated laboratory system providing services to the eight hospitals of Detroit Medical Center.  DMC University Laboratories evolved in 1993 and is comprised of Core Laboratories,  Specialty Laboratories, two  rapid response hospital laboratories, Centralized Stat Lab, Centralized Blood Bank Lab, and full service outreach infrastructure which includes patient service centers, remote ambulatory laboratories, marketing staff, courier system and billing department. The DMC University Laboratories service area covers the entire Southeast Michigan market, and is growing at a rapid pace with the following outstanding features:  Test menu of over 1,000 tests, which includes high end specialty tests.  Less than 1% of our tests are sent to outside reference laboratories.  Provide reference laboratory services to many of the other healthcare systems in Southeastern Michigan and several out of state facilities. 

Summary Description 

Under limited supervision directs and supervises assigned personnel and daily activities of the laboratory section  to ensure efficient and uninterrupted operations.

  • Responsible for overall management of the section which includes recommendations on hiring, counseling and disciplinary actions of staff.
  • Maintains statistical information related to section. 
  • Develops and monitors financial budgets, as well as quality assurance monitors to assess section performance and ensures established targets are achieved. 
  • Assists in the development and enforcement of practices to meet all operational and regulatory laws and standards including HIPPA. 
  • Participates in process improvement initiatives.  Responsible for training, new employee orientation, competency assessment and evaluation of staff.
  • Supports the standards set forth in the DMC's Code of Conduct by creating an atmosphere of commitment to legal and ethical standards, and as directed, implementing external and internal audit recommendations.
  • Monitors activities to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations JCAHO requirements, and DMC policies and procedures.  As directed, implements external and internal audit recommendations. 
  • Ensures hospital departments achieve objectives for diversity of their suppliers.

Minimum Qualifications

  1. Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology or related science or Canadian degree in clinical discipline and completion of accredited Technologist program.
  2. Three to five years of progressively more responsible laboratory experience or two to four years of supervisory experience in a clinical laboratory.
  3. Registered as a Technologist with the American Society of Clinical Pathologist, National Certifying Agency or equivalent within 18 months of hire.

Skills Required

1.   Analytical ability to define functional, unit or service procedures, to independently oversee the application of methods, guides, and processes, to apply sound judgment in choosing proper course of action among multiple options, to interpret policies, to assist in planning short to mid-range goals and determining measures, and to assess and monitor progress toward Laboratory Services goal attainment.

2.   Communication and/or interpersonal skills for contact with internal and external customers/stakeholders to discuss and interpret technical information or Laboratory policy.  Some discretion must be exercised in deciding what and how to communicate.  Conflict resolution skills are exercised within the Service Centers and occasionally on an interdepartmental or inter functional basis.  Diplomacy, tact and listening skills are required.  Ability to read and comprehend policies and interpret technical materials in the Laboratory area is necessary.

3.   Leadership skills including demonstrated willingness to pursue leadership roles with increasing levels of accountability, comfort with decision-making responsibilities, coaching, teaching and counseling skills, and the ability to inspire and build confidence in others and to forge alliances and garner support.

4.   Technical knowledge of laboratory operations and processes.

5.     Working Knowledge of computer applications with special focus on word and spreadsheet applications

6.     Demonstrated understanding and application of process improvement skills and concepts.


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