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Senior Lab Technician Jobs in Decatur, TN (NOW HIRING)

Cardiac Tech, Sr. EKG Fulltime

Chattanooga, TN ยท On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

The Senior Cardiac Technician employed by Erlanger Medical Center is responsible for performing non ... This is done through evaluation of direct supervisor by direct observation, in a skills review lab ...

Senior Lab Technician information

See Decatur, TN salary details

$12

$21

$34

How much do senior lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior lab technician in Decatur, TN is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who gets paid more, MLT or MLS?

Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) and Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) are different roles with MLS typically earning higher salaries due to advanced education and responsibilities. MLS professionals usually have a bachelor's degree and perform more complex testing, which is reflected in higher pay compared to MLTs, who often have an associate degree and perform routine testing.

What are Senior Lab Technicians?

Senior Lab Technicians are experienced laboratory professionals responsible for overseeing lab operations, conducting complex tests, and ensuring quality control. They often supervise junior technicians, maintain lab equipment, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Senior Lab Technicians also analyze results, troubleshoot issues, and may assist in training new staff. Their work is crucial for accurate scientific research and reliable lab results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Lab Technician, you need advanced laboratory skills, a solid grounding in scientific methods, and typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology or chemistry. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), analytical instruments (like spectrometers and chromatographs), and relevant safety certifications is common. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate results, maintain lab safety, and support efficient collaboration in research or production environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Lab Technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Lab Technicians often manage multiple experiments and oversee junior staff, which can make time management and prioritization a challenge. Additionally, troubleshooting equipment issues and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols require strong technical expertise and attention to detail. Building good communication with team members and staying updated on the latest laboratory practices can help address these challenges. Many technicians find that developing organizational systems and participating in ongoing training are key to maintaining efficiency and safety in the lab.

What does a senior lab tech do?

A senior lab technician oversees laboratory operations, conducts complex experiments, and ensures quality control. They often mentor junior staff, maintain lab equipment, and follow safety protocols, requiring technical skills and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Senior Lab Technician vs Lab Technician?

AspectSenior Lab TechnicianLab Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree, certifications often preferredAssociate's degree or equivalent, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentAdvanced laboratories, overseeing proceduresBasic laboratory settings, performing routine tests
Job ResponsibilitiesSupervising tests, troubleshooting, mentoringConducting tests, preparing samples

The Senior Lab Technician typically has more experience, advanced responsibilities, and may oversee other technicians, whereas the Lab Technician focuses on routine testing and sample preparation. Both roles require similar credentials and work in laboratory environments, but the senior position involves additional leadership and technical oversight.

What is the highest salary for a lab technician?

The highest salary for a senior lab technician can reach around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced certifications and specialized skills may lead to higher compensation in certain sectors or organizations.

What is the highest paying lab technician job?

The highest paying lab technician roles are often specialized positions such as clinical laboratory managers, research scientists, or quality assurance directors, which require advanced certifications and extensive experience. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to increased responsibilities, technical expertise, and leadership requirements.
What job categories do people searching Senior Lab Technician jobs in Decatur, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Lab Technician jobs in Decatur, TN are:
What cities near Decatur, TN are hiring for Senior Lab Technician jobs? Cities near Decatur, TN with the most Senior Lab Technician job openings:

Cardiac Tech, Sr. EKG PRN

Medicine Journal

Chattanooga, TN โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
The Senior Cardiac Technician employed by Erlanger Medical Center is responsible for performing non-invasive cardiac diagnostic procedures as ordered by the physician.
Education:
Required:
High School Graduate or GED equivalent.
Preferred:
Some college courses.
Experience:
Required:
N/A
Preferred:
Experience in a patient care setting. Previous experience performing 12-lead ECGs and/or interpreting cardiac arrhythmias. Computer experience.
Position Requirement(s): License/Certification/Registration
Required:
BLS completed prior to going to unit/department and maintained going forward.
Must pass initial arrhythmia course with 75% accuracy within six months of employment. Annually tested and must meet 90% accuracy.
Preferred:
Certified Cardiographic Technician, (CCT).
Department Position Summary:
Performs electrocardiograms as order by physicians. Initiates holter and cardiac event monitors, which includes placement of electrodes and education of patients. Preparation of preliminary reports for final interpretation by physician. Observes central cardiac telemetry monitors. Identifies cardiac arrhythmias and any changes in patient's rate and rhythm and communicates with staff nurse. Collaborative effort with staff nurse to provide excellent patient care.
The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's relative to his or her age-specific needs and to provide the care needed as descried in the unit's policies ad procedures. This is done through evaluation of direct supervisor by direct observation, in a skills review lab and/or by self assessment based on objective criteria that is reviewed and validated.