Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Tennessee
Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs in Tennessee are in steady demand, with consistent openings in hospital systems, public health laboratories, and reference lab networks serving communities from entry-level positions through senior and lead scientist roles. Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville generate the largest share of hiring, anchored by employers such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, and LifePoint Health. Molecular diagnostics, clinical chemistry, and blood bank specialties see the most persistent demand across the state. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 4 of 10+ Medical Laboratory Scientist jobs
Job Information
State of Tennessee Job Information
LOCATION OF (1) POSITION(S) TO BE FILLED: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, DAVIDSON COUNTY
This position is located at the Division of Laboratory Services in Nashville, TN.
A transcript with ALL credits is required (PDF encouraged) to be uploaded with an employment application in order to properly evaluate a candidate's eligibility for a position in this classification. This position can either have a Sunday-Thursday or Tuesday - Saturday schedule.
This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, you may be required to provide information about your criminal history in order to be considered for this position.
Qualifications
Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Sciences or related field of study from an accredited college or university; OR successful completion of a two-year from an accredited medical laboratory technician program; OR meet CLIA Testing Personnel Qualification Category set forth in federal CMS regulations 42 CFR 493.1489.
Substitution of Education for Experience: Undergraduate or graduate course work received from an accredited college or university in a related field may substitute for the required education and experience on a year-to-year basis to a maximum of two years (e.g., 24 graduate semester hours or 36 graduate quarter hours in a related field may substitute for education and/or one year of the experience). A transcript with ALL credits is required to be uploaded with an employment application in order for the agency to properly evaluate a candidate's eligibility for a position in this classification.
Necessary Special Qualifications: Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license throughout the duration of employment.
Overview
The PH Laboratory Scientist 1 for Newborn Screening is an entry/working level position that performs routine laboratory, operational, and administrative activities in the TDH Division of Laboratory Services. Under general supervision of a PH Laboratory Manager or Director, the incumbent serves as Laboratory Scientist responsible for performing laboratory testing and operational tasks of routine difficulty, including but not limited to performing all phases of laboratory testing, performing data analysis and interpretation, and assisting in troubleshooting. This position performs routine technical and non-technical work with responsibilities that are less complex than other positions within this job series.
Responsibilities
- Performs laboratory testing and quality assurance activities for all phases of testing in accordance with agency policies and procedures, regulatory and accreditation requirements, and organizational goals.
- Contribute to laboratory processes and procedures, equipment and supply inventory management, and assist in troubleshooting practices for laboratory testing and operations.
- Participate in laboratory projects and initiatives, data analysis and management, verification/validation studies, and process improvement activities.
- Communicate laboratory operational and testing activities/tasks with laboratory personnel, supervisor and/or managers. Notify laboratory supervisors and/or managers of any operational issues and maintain effective written and oral communications among personnel.
- Maintain knowledge of clinical and public health infectious diseases, environmental laboratory science, or related laboratory specialties. Follows agency and organizational policies and procedures and maintains technical and non-technical proficiency and competency.
- Assist with technical and non-technical trainings for laboratory staff, students, fellows, and other professionals.
- Participate in laboratory section and division activities and initiatives.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- The responsibilities described indicate the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.
Competencies (KSA's)
- Builds Effective Teams
- Instills Trust
- Action Oriented
- Customer Focus
- Communicates Effectively
Knowledge:
- Laboratory Procedures
- Quality Control Standards
- Health and Safety Regulations
- Sample Preparation and Analysis
- Equipment Maintenance and Calibration
Skills:
- Analytical Skills
- Attention to Detail and Active Listening
- Time Management
- Technical Proficiency
- Problem Solving
Abilities:
- Deductive Reasoning
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Communication Ability and Speech Clarity
- Critical Thinking
- Problem Sensitivity
Tools & Equipment
- General Lab Equipment
- Lab Section Specialized Equipment
- Autoclaves
- BSC and Fume-hoods
- Computers
TN Driver Standards
State of Tennessee positions that may involve driving responsibilities require candidates to meet the following minimum driver qualifications:
- A valid driver's license
- For the past five years, the candidate's driver record must not have record of the following violations: driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, license suspension for moving violations, more than 4 moving violations.
Please include your Driver's License Information under the Licenses and Certifications section of your application.
**Agencies may allow an exception based on other factors.
Job Information
State of Tennessee Job Information
LOCATION OF (1) POSITION(S) TO BE FILLED: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, DAVIDSON COUNTY
This position is located at the Division of Laboratory Services in Nashville, TN.
A transcript with ALL credits is required (PDF encouraged) to be uploaded with an employment application in order to properly evaluate a candidate's eligibility for a position in this classification. This position can either have a Sunday-Thursday or Tuesday - Saturday schedule.
This position requires a criminal background check. Therefore, you may be required to provide information about your criminal history in order to be considered for this position.
Qualifications
Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Sciences or related field of study from an accredited college or university; OR successful completion of a two-year from an accredited medical laboratory technician program; OR meet CLIA Testing Personnel Qualification Category set forth in federal CMS regulations 42 CFR 493.1489.
Substitution of Education for Experience: Undergraduate or graduate course work received from an accredited college or university in a related field may substitute for the required education and experience on a year-to-year basis to a maximum of two years (e.g., 24 graduate semester hours or 36 graduate quarter hours in a related field may substitute for education and/or one year of the experience). A transcript with ALL credits is required to be uploaded with an employment application in order for the agency to properly evaluate a candidate's eligibility for a position in this classification.
Necessary Special Qualifications: Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license throughout the duration of employment.
Overview
The PH Laboratory Scientist 1 for Newborn Screening is an entry/working level position that performs routine laboratory, operational, and administrative activities in the TDH Division of Laboratory Services. Under general supervision of a PH Laboratory Manager or Director, the incumbent serves as Laboratory Scientist responsible for performing laboratory testing and operational tasks of routine difficulty, including but not limited to performing all phases of laboratory testing, performing data analysis and interpretation, and assisting in troubleshooting. This position performs routine technical and non-technical work with responsibilities that are less complex than other positions within this job series.
Responsibilities
- Performs laboratory testing and quality assurance activities for all phases of testing in accordance with agency policies and procedures, regulatory and accreditation requirements, and organizational goals.
- Contribute to laboratory processes and procedures, equipment and supply inventory management, and assist in troubleshooting practices for laboratory testing and operations.
- Participate in laboratory projects and initiatives, data analysis and management, verification/validation studies, and process improvement activities.
- Communicate laboratory operational and testing activities/tasks with laboratory personnel, supervisor and/or managers. Notify laboratory supervisors and/or managers of any operational issues and maintain effective written and oral communications among personnel.
- Maintain knowledge of clinical and public health infectious diseases, environmental laboratory science, or related laboratory specialties. Follows agency and organizational policies and procedures and maintains technical and non-technical proficiency and competency.
- Assist with technical and non-technical trainings for laboratory staff, students, fellows, and other professionals.
- Participate in laboratory section and division activities and initiatives.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- The responsibilities described indicate the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.
Competencies (KSA's)
- Builds Effective Teams
- Instills Trust
- Action Oriented
- Customer Focus
- Communicates Effectively
Knowledge:
- Laboratory Procedures
- Quality Control Standards
- Health and Safety Regulations
- Sample Preparation and Analysis
- Equipment Maintenance and Calibration
Skills:
- Analytical Skills
- Attention to Detail and Active Listening
- Time Management
- Technical Proficiency
- Problem Solving
Abilities:
- Deductive Reasoning
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Communication Ability and Speech Clarity
- Critical Thinking
- Problem Sensitivity
Tools & Equipment
- General Lab Equipment
- Lab Section Specialized Equipment
- Autoclaves
- BSC and Fume-hoods
- Computers
TN Driver Standards
State of Tennessee positions that may involve driving responsibilities require candidates to meet the following minimum driver qualifications:
- A valid driver's license
- For the past five years, the candidate's driver record must not have record of the following violations: driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, license suspension for moving violations, more than 4 moving violations.
Please include your Driver's License Information under the Licenses and Certifications section of your application.
**Agencies may allow an exception based on other factors.
See All 10 Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Tennessee
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Find JobsMedical Laboratory Scientist Jobs by City in Tennessee
Where Tennessee roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Medical Laboratory Scientist Job Market in Tennessee
A snapshot from current Tennessee openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
What Tennessee Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in medical laboratory scientist jobs across Tennessee.
- Active ASCP Board of Certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist or equivalent recognized credential
- Bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science, clinical laboratory science, or a closely related field
- Proficiency with laboratory information systems and automated analyzer platforms
- Hands-on experience in one or more clinical laboratory departments such as hematology or microbiology
- Ability to follow CAP accreditation standards and CLIA regulatory requirements in a clinical setting
- Strong quality control documentation skills and familiarity with laboratory safety protocols
Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Tennessee: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a medical laboratory scientist in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not require a state-issued laboratory scientist license, so the path centers on education and national certification. You will need a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a closely related field, followed by passing the ASCP Board of Certification Medical Laboratory Scientist exam. Most Tennessee employers treat ASCP certification as a firm requirement rather than a preference, so securing that credential before applying gives you a clear hiring advantage.
Which companies hire medical laboratory scientists in Tennessee?
Employers hiring medical laboratory scientists in Tennessee right now include Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, PathGroup, and Phase2 Labs, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Tennessee's large integrated health systems and affiliated reference laboratories generate the most consistent volume of openings, particularly in the Nashville and Memphis corridors.
Which Tennessee cities have the most medical laboratory scientist jobs?
Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville have the most medical laboratory scientist openings in Tennessee. Nashville leads because of its dense concentration of major health systems, academic medical centers, and corporate laboratory services headquartered in the metro, while Memphis and Knoxville contribute significant volume through regional hospital networks and university-affiliated medical facilities serving large surrounding populations.
Are there remote medical laboratory scientist jobs in Tennessee?
Yes, but they're rare. Medical laboratory science is inherently hands-on work requiring direct specimen handling and instrument operation, so the vast majority of roles are on-site. About 17% of medical laboratory scientist openings tied to Tennessee are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those positions typically involve laboratory management, consulting, or quality assurance functions rather than bench work.
How can I get hired as a medical laboratory scientist in Tennessee with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to new-graduate or training programs run by large Tennessee health systems such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center or Regional One Health in Memphis, which periodically bring on candidates who have completed accredited MLT or MLS programs but lack post-graduation experience. Roles like medical laboratory technician or phlebotomist at those same institutions serve as direct stepping stones. Holding current ASCP certification or ASCP eligibility, even without significant bench time, is the credential that most consistently moves a Tennessee candidate through initial screening.
Where can I find and apply to medical laboratory scientist jobs in Tennessee?
You can find and apply to medical laboratory scientist jobs in Tennessee on Migrate Mate, which lists current Tennessee openings. Find roles that fit your experience and credentials and apply directly through the listings.
See All 10 Medical Laboratory Scientist Jobs in Tennessee
Find roles in Tennessee that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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