What will I do in this job?

Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, also known as medical technologists and technicians, perform laboratory testing that plays an important part in detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. To work in a clinical laboratory, you will need good analytical judgment, the ability to work under pressure, and the ability to pay close attention to detail.

In this job you will:

• examine and analyze body fluids, tissues, and cells
• look for bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms
• analyze the chemical content of fluids
• cross match blood components for transfusions
• test for drug levels in the blood to show how a patient is responding to treatment
• prepare specimens for examination, count cells
• look for abnormal cells

You will use automated equipment and instruments capable of performing a number of tests simultaneously, as well as microscopes, cell counters, and other sophisticated laboratory equipment.

Clinical Laboratory Technologists:

• microscopically examine blood, tissue, and other body substances
• evaluate test results
• develop and modify procedures
• establish monitoring programs to insure the accuracy of tests
• supervise laboratory sections or shift

Clinical Laboratory Technicians:

• prepare specimens
• operate automatic analyzers
• perform manual tests following detailed instructions
• usually work under the supervision of a Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Laboratory Director

Will I need a special license?

State licensure or registration required by some states; national certification is required by most employers.

What type of education will I need?

The usual requirement for an entry-level position as a clinical laboratory technologist is a bachelor’s degree with a major in medical technology or in one of the life sciences. Bachelor’s degree programs in medical technology include courses in chemistry, biological sciences, microbiology, mathematics, and statistics, as well as specialized courses devoted to knowledge and skills used in the clinical laboratory.

Will I find a job?

Employment of clinical laboratory workers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2010, as the volume of laboratory tests increases with population growth and the development of new types of tests.

How much money will I make?

Median Salary: $42,910 (Ranges from $30,500- $58,000)
(2003-2004)