Medical lab technicians work in hospitals and labs performing tests on patient tissue, blood, fluids, and other samples. Medical lab techs play a significant role in diagnosing and preventing contagious and deadly diseases like cancer and HIV.
Medical Lab Tech Job Description Can Include
- Study all aspects of samples
- Perform tests that help diagnose and treat illnesses
- Use required tools like microscopes and cell counters
- Detect abnormalities or diseases
- Find parasites, microorganisms, and bacteria
- Analyze and record findings
- Sanitize the lab area
Find a medical lab technology program near you.
Salary Info
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2021, the mean annual wage for a clinical lab tech was $56,910. Entry level medical lab technicians made over $30,000 per year, and the top 10% brought in over $79,000. This is a full-time job, often with irregular hours such as evening and weekends, depending on when the hiring medical facility is open.
Top Paying States For Medical Lab Technicians
| State | Salary |
| Rhode Island | $70,580 |
| New York | $72,500 |
| Connecticut | $70,220 |
| Oregon | $69,330 |
| California | $68,450 |
Industries with the Highest Employment for Clinical Lab Technicians
| Industry | Salary |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | $59,880 |
| Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories | $56,050 |
| Offices of Physicians | $53,060 |
| Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools | $54,470 |
| Outpatient Care Centers | $59,750 |
States With Highest Levels of Employment
| State | Salary |
| California | $68,450 |
| Texas | $53,240 |
| Florida | $52,280 |
| New York | $72,500 |
| Ohio | $56,170 |
Job Outlook
Through 2030, employment for medical lab technicians is expected to grow 11%. This is faster than the average of all occupations.
The aging population means more diagnosing of illnesses being done. Medical lab techs who have completed an accredited program and have gotten licensed and certified will have a leg up on the competition.
Reference:
- Medical Lab Technician Career – Medical Lab Tech Training, Jobs & Salary
- Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians on BLS
last edit: 8/17/22