CAREER SNAPSHOT
Summary
A medical laboratory technician uses sophisticated lab equipment to prepare and analyze blood, urine and tissue samples.
Career Level
Similar Jobs
Consider these careers as well:
Salary
National average, per year
$51,770
JOB OPENINGS
Current national estimate
14,011
DEMAND OUTLOOK
Actual salaries can vary substantially based on region, job description and employer expectations; does not include additional compensation. Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: May 2019
OVERVIEW
Medical Laboratory Technician Job Description
If you are interested in a career in the growing healthcare field, but do not want to provide direct patient care, then becoming a medical laboratory technician (medical lab tech) may be an excellent choice for you. This job allows you to work behind-the-scenes while still positively impacting a patient’s life.
Medical lab techs are a crucial part of the healthcare team. The work that they do helps the doctors detect illnesses and diseases and determine the best treatment options for patients. Medical lab techs may also enjoy the benefits of a flexible work schedule, good pay and a variety of settings to work in.
Medical Laboratory Technician Job Responsibilities
A medical laboratory technician may perform the following job duties. Actual duties may vary by location.
- Prepare samples for analysis
- Analyze body fluids, tissues and cells
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment
- Log data into patient’s medical record
- Set up and sanitize laboratories
- Match blood types for blood transfusions
- Test for drug levels in blood
Medical Laboratory Technician Salary
The actual salary of the medical laboratory technician can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Most recent data shown.
National average per year: $51,770*
National average per hour: $24.89*
- $34,507 per year, $16.59 per hour**
- $40,664 per year, $19.38 per hour***
- $$46,382 to $56,883 per year****
- $47,214 per year, $22.70 per hour*****
* Bureau of Labor Statics
** Indeed.com
*** Payscale.com
**** Salary.com
***** Glassdoor.com
Medical Laboratory Technician Career Pros and Cons
What are the ups and downs of being a medical laboratory technician? Here are a few items to keep in mind.
Pros
- Can typically complete training in 2 years or less
- Good pay
- Great job growth
- Many settings to work in
- Flexible work schedule/shifts
Cons
- Daily work can be stressful
- Limited opportunity for advancement without further education
- Work can be challenging
- May have to work nights, weekends and holidays
- Potential exposure to infectious and hazardous biological materials
CAREER PATH AND TRAINING
How Do I Become a Medical Laboratory Technician?
If you are considering a career as a medical laboratory technician, here are the steps you will need to complete.
- Obtain your high school diploma/GED.
- Earn an associate’s degree from an accredited medical laboratory technician program. This typically takes 2 years to complete.
- Pass an exam to obtain certification through The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or The American Medical Technologists (AMT). Certification is not required in all states or by all employers, but is highly recommended.
Suggested Career Path
The position of the medical laboratory technician is in the middle of the medical career pathway and can be preceded by entry-level or other mid-level jobs. A sample career path could look like this:
Patient Service Representative > Medical Laboratory Technician > Nuclear Medicine Technician
Typical Minimum Education
Actual requirements may vary by state. Please check with your state government.
- High school diploma / GED
- Associate’s degree from an accredited medical laboratory technician program
Typical Work Experience Required
Usually gained through the training program.
Typical Skills Required
Common skills listed. Actual skills required may vary by job and location.
- Physical stamina
- Dexterity
- Ability to use technology
- Ability to understand and follow procedures
- Quality assurance and control
- Detail-oriented
- Computer literacy
Medical Laboratory Technician Certifications
Although certification is not mandatory in all states or by all employers, it is highly recommended. These are the certifications that are available:
- MLT, Medical Laboratory Technician (AMT)
- MLT ASCP, Medical Laboratory Technician (ASCP)
Click on the certifications to find out more.
Medical Laboratory Technician Licenses
Some states require licensure. Visit the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) website to learn about specific state requirements.
Medical Laboratory Technician Training and Preparation
Once you have completed the associate’s degree program, it is time to prepare for the certification exam through the AMT or the ASCP. These certifications are not required in all states, but are highly recommended. Most employers prefer medical laboratory technicians who hold certifications. Certification widens employment opportunities and shows dedication and confirmation of your knowledge.
Preparing for the exams can be done in many ways. Flashcards and exam prep books are great tools to help you organize and prepare. The AMT and ASCP websites have study guides and practice exams available. A little self-confidence and some strategic studying and preparation can help ensure your success.
Was this article helpful?
@Raising Careers Inbox
Like this article? Sign up for our newsletter and we’ll send you a summary of everything new on Raising Careers once a week.