MLS Trainee Student Worker

Labcorp is a global leader in laboratory services, providing insights and answers that help healthcare providers, patients, researchers, pharmaceutical companies, and health systems make confident decisions and improve outcomes. Through unparalleled science, data, technology, and a vast laboratory network, we advance diagnostics, accelerate innovation, and address critical health challenges. By leveraging advanced technologies, intelligent digital solutions, and data-driven innovation, we enhance operational efficiency and deliver greater value to customers and patients.

About the role

Labcorp is seeking an MLS Trainee Student Worker to join the 2026-2027 Medical Laboratory Science Training Program in Birmingham, AL. As an MLS Trainee Student Worker, you will rotate through hospital and non-hospital laboratory settings, gaining hands-on experience in clinical and didactic instruction. Didactic lectures are provided virtually, while clinical instruction occurs in-person at base or affiliate locations. This role supports meaningful work in STEM, business, and healthcare disciplines, contributing to Labcorp’s mission of improving health and lives globally.

In addition to clinical and didactic training, you will engage in professional development through workshops, leadership speakers, employee resource groups, and panel discussions. Upon program completion, you will receive a certificate and be prepared for diverse responsibilities in analysis, clinical decision-making, regulatory compliance, education, and quality assurance. Note: Labcorp School of Medical Laboratory Science is seeking NAACLS approval; students will be eligible for national certification upon full accreditation.

Responsibilities

• Attend didactic lectures and complete all coursework in:
  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Hematology
  • Urinalysis & Body Fluids
  • Immunohematology
  • Immunology & Molecular Methods
  • Clinical Microbiology
  • Laboratory Operations Management and Education
• Successfully complete clinical rotations and assignments in:
  • Phlebotomy
  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Hematology
  • Urinalysis & Body Fluids
  • Immunohematology
  • Immunology & Molecular Methods
  • Clinical Microbiology
• Demonstrate competency by achieving at least 70% on each course examination and an overall grade of 76% or higher.
• Complete supplemental assignments and attend study sessions to prepare for the national certification examination.
• Participate in professional development workshops and modules to enhance business acumen and professional presence.
• During paid work hours (voluntary, up to 20 hours per week unless approved), assist with:
  • Clinical laboratory testing under the supervision of a qualified Medical Laboratory Scientist.
  • Accurate and timely result entry (auto-verification and manual entry) with review by a qualified Medical Laboratory Scientist.
  • Preventative maintenance on equipment, minor repairs, and documentation of activities (e.g., PM logs, troubleshooting, quality control).
  • Pipetting samples and reagents using approved devices.
  • Recording dates for reagents, kits, controls, and standards.
  • Troubleshooting simple assay problems and reporting suggestions to management.
  • Adhering to Labcorp, CLIA, CAP, ICH GCP, and other regulatory standards.
  • Other duties within the scope of the student trainee role.
• Note: Students and student workers are not permitted to independently release patient results.

Requirements

• Acceptance into the Labcorp School of Medical Laboratory Science.
• Completion of all college/university requirements for a baccalaureate degree.
• Minimum GPA of 2.50–2.75 (applicants in this range will be considered individually).
• Coursework must include:
  • 16 credit hours of Chemistry (including Biochemistry or Organic Chemistry).
  • 16 credit hours of Biology (including Microbiology with Lab).
  • Additional coursework in Genetics or Molecular Biology, Anatomy/Physiology, Immunology, and Statistics.

Preferred Qualifications

• Science/math and overall cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• 1–2 years of experience in relevant coursework (e.g., Genetics, Molecular Biology, Anatomy/Physiology, Immunology, Statistics).

About the Team

The Diagnostic Core Laboratories support routine and specialty diagnostic testing for conditions such as cancer and chronic kidney disease. Trainees in Phoenix, Birmingham, and Indianapolis will train in this environment.

The Central Laboratories generate extensive clinical trial data, covering Immunology, special chemistry, safety testing, genomics, histology, targeted cell isolation, flow cytometry, and microbiology. Trainees in Indianapolis will also train in this setting.

Hospital Laboratories perform complex tests to detect, diagnose, and treat diseases, including microbiology, body fluid analysis, and transfusion medicine. Trainees will rotate through a Hospital laboratory to complete rotations not covered in Core or Central laboratories, either at Labcorp-run facilities or local affiliates.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits for employees working 20+ hours per week, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Life, short-term disability (STD), and long-term disability (LTD) insurance.
  • 401(k) retirement plan.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) or Flexible Time Off (FTO).
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Employees working less than 20 hours per week, including casual, intern, and temporary roles, are eligible for the 401(k) plan only.
• Employees on a 7-on/7-off schedule receive all benefits except PTO or FTO.