Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians run scientific tests on blood, urine, and other body samples to help doctors diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They use microscopes, centrifuges, and automated analyzers to look for abnormal cells, bacteria, or unusual chemical levels, then record and report their results using computers and data charts. Some technicians help train newer staff, keep sensitive lab equipment calibrated and sterile, and may assist with research projects that test new ways to detect or control illnesses.
Did you know?
Most positions require an associate degree in medical laboratory technology and certification from organizations like ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology) to meet US healthcare standards.
At a glance
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Active Listening
Things to consider
Strong Job Growth Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth due to America's aging population and increasing demand for medical diagnostic testing.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Technicians must adhere to strict OSHA safety protocols and CLIA regulations while handling potentially infectious materials in American healthcare facilities.
Key responsibilities
Prepare standard volumetric solutions or reagents to be combined with samples, following standardized formulas or experimental procedures.
Obtain specimens, cultivating, isolating, and identifying microorganisms for analysis.
Perform medical research to further control or cure disease.
Set up, maintain, calibrate, clean, and test sterility of medical laboratory equipment.
Analyze the results of tests or experiments to ensure conformity to specifications, using special mechanical or electrical devices.