Clinical Laboratory Technologist

Clinical laboratory technologists perform chemical, biological, hematological, immunologic, microscopic, or bacteriologic lab work.

Clinical laboratory technologists 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 need good analytical judgment, and must be able to work under pressure. Computer skills are becoming more and more important also.

Education and Credentials Required
Entry-level clinical laboratory technologists normally have bachelors’ degree in medical technology or life sciences. Some do learn through specialized training or even on the job. The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act stipulates that at least an associate degree is necessary to perform certain advanced tests.

The National Association Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredits 467 educational programs in the U.S. There are two more accrediting bureaus, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. A license is necessary to be a clinical laboratory technologist, but certification is voluntary unless mandated by the employer (and typically it is). Advancement is likely to happen faster with a graduate degree in medical technology or life sciences, but the degree is not strictly necessary.

Future Prospects
Employment opportunities for clinical laboratory technologists are expected to rise as fast as average. The ageing of the baby boomers drives the increase in demand. While hospitals will continue to be the main type of employer, most new jobs will arise in offices of physicians and diagnostic imaging centers. It is worth noting that there will be fewer job seekers than jobs, thus making a significant opportunity for job seekers.

Salary Range
The median salary, as of 2002, for clinical laboratory technologists was $42,910. Freelance clinical laboratory technologists can expect to earn significantly more per hour than salaried clinical laboratory technologists. Experience, location, skill, reputation, hours worked and other factors impact income. Clinical laboratory technologists rarely pay for their own health benefits and retirement benefits, as they are rarely self-employed.