ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Reference Laboratory Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsReference Laboratory JobsReference Laboratory Jobs in Michigan

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 are popular job titles related to Reference Laboratory jobs in Michigan? For Reference Laboratory jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reference Laboratory jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for 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:
Reference Laboratory jobs near you
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.
Medical Technologist I Harper Blood Bank FT Evenings Sign on Bonus available

Medical Technologist I Harper Blood Bank FT Evenings Sign on Bonus available

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

**$15,000 Sign on Bonus, with required amount of relevant experience**

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 general supervision, performs quantitative and qualitative laboratory test on patient specimens according to standard laboratory formulas and procedures.

  • Analyzes test results and prepares samples for testing. 
  • Calculates test findings and maintains records.
  • Prepares and determines validity of solutions, reagents, media stains and various materials in the testing process.

Processes and tests all types of laboratory specimens; reviews and reports lab results; performs operational duties, maintenance and advanced troubleshooting of laboratory instrumentation and equipment; acts as resource to other laboratory personnel.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree from an approved college or university and/or graduate of an accredited school of medical technology, or equivalent such as military training as defined by 42 CFR 493.1489, or have qualified at the Medical Technologist level by achieving a satisfactory grade on a HHS examination prior to 2/28/92 42 CFR 493.1491. The above meets required criteria as defined by CLIA regulations for High Complexity testing (42 CFR 493.1489 and 42 CFR 493.1491).
  • Prefer 6 months to 1 year medical laboratory technologist, clinical laboratory scientist experience in acute care facility.
  • Required: Registered or registry eligible in accordance with an approved certifying agency (ASCP, NCA, AMT or CSMLS within 12 months of hire). Equivalency evaluation by ECE ,NACES or AICE for non-US trained personnel must be completed within 30 days of hire. Licensure, as required by State.

Skills Required

1. Analytical ability to interpret and analyze test results.

2. Interpersonal skills in order to work effectively with all areas of physician office.

3. Manual dexterity and visual acuity to operate various types of laboratory equipment.

4. Visual acuity to closely examine specimens.

What Tenet Healthcare employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply