Clinical Laboratory Technician

Clinical laboratory technicians perform tests and laboratory procedures. These tests and lab procedures are less complicated than the ones done by clinical laboratory technologists. Typically, clinical laboratory technologists supervise clinical laboratory technicians. This testing is a vital part of diagnosing an treating disease.

Clinical laboratory technicians need to have excellent attention to detail. They follow instructions well and are able to work in a group environment. Additionally, they need strong mechanical ability and manual dexterity. They must also have good judgment, analytical skills and the ability to work under pressure. Computer skills are also necessary.

Education and Credentials Required
Typically, clinical laboratory technicians usually have an associate degree or a certificate from a hospital, vocational, or technical school. The military also train clinical laboratory technicians. The National Association Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) certifies 467 educational programs in the U.S. There are two more organizations that accredit training programs, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools Clinical laboratory technicians must be licensed or registered in some states. Certification, however, is voluntary unless required by the employer.

Future Prospects
Employment opportunities for clinical laboratory technicians are expected to rise as fast as average. While growth may be unremarkable, there is a notable deficit in qualified applicants, making opportunities significant. While hospitals will continue to be the main type of employer, most new jobs will arise in offices of physicians and diagnostic imaging centers and independent labs.

Salary Range
The median salary, as of 2002, for clinical laboratory technicians was $29,040. Freelance clinical laboratory technicians can expect to earn significantly more per hour than salaried clinical laboratory technicians. Experience, location, skill, reputation, hours worked and other factors impact income. Clinical laboratory technicians rarely pay for their own health benefits and retirement benefits, as they are rarely self-employed.