An on-campus or online associates degree or certificate in medical technology or a science will provide the preparation you need to begin a career as a lab technician.
Related Lab Technician Programs
What does a lab technician do?
Laboratory technicians examine and analyze body fluids and cells. They do this to find bacteria, parasites and other microorganisms that may reside there. Technicians may prepare specimens, operate automated analyzers or perform manual tests by following detailed instructions.
Lab techs use microscopes, cell counters and other sophisticated and sensitive laboratory equipment and machines. Much of the equipment is automated and can be used to perform many tests at the same time.
After the specimen has been tested and examined, lab techs analyze the results and inform the physicians about them.
Lab personnel are trained to work with infectious specimens. They know the proper techniques of infection control and sterilization. For example, wearing protective gloves and goggles are often necessary to ensure the safety of lab personnel.
Lab technicians usually work under the supervision of laboratory technologists or laboratory managers.
Often, through education and experience, technicians can advance to technologist positions.
What kind of education does a lab technician need?
For an entry level position as a lab technician, you will want to consider obtaining an associate’s degree from a junior college or as an online degree program. You can also look into certificate programs offered at vocational or technical schools.
When you’re seeking a program, make sure it’s accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
In addition to having certification, employers will want you to possess good analytical judgment and the ability to work under pressure. Close attention to detail, manual dexterity and solid computer skills are also essentials.
How much does a lab technician earn?
Bureau of Labor Statistics suggest that median annual salaries for lab technicians is at around $35,380.
Where can a lab technician work?
Hospitals are the major employer of clinical lab technicians. However, the use of lab technicians is growing rapidly in physicians’ offices, ambulatory healthcare services and medical laboratories.