A laboratory technologist is a professional who performs tests and analyses on samples in order to provide information for medical diagnosis or treatment. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and research laboratories.
Laboratory Technologist job duties include:
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and instruments
- Performing quality control checks
- Calibrating instruments
- Maintaining inventory of supplies
- Setting up experiments
- Conducting experiments
- Analyzing data and results
- Writing reports
- Presenting findings
Laboratory Technologist Job Requirements
A laboratory technologist typically needs at least an associate's degree in medical laboratory technology, although a bachelor's degree may be preferred. Certification from a professional organization, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology, is also generally required. Experience in a clinical laboratory is also helpful.
Laboratory Technologist Skills
- Analytical skills
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Computer skills
- Critical thinking
- Data analysis
- Interpersonal skills
- Organizational skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Research skills
- Technical skills
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How to become a Laboratory Technologist
There are many ways to become a Laboratory Technologist. One can attend a two-year community college and earn an Associate of Science degree in medical laboratory technology, or one can attend a four-year college and earn a Bachelor of Science degree in medical laboratory science. Many technologists also choose to earn a Master of Science degree in medical laboratory science.
Most technologists complete a one-year internship as part of their educational program. During the internship, technologists work under the supervision of experienced technologists and learn how to perform various laboratory tests.
After completing their educational program and internship, technologists must pass a national certification exam before they can begin working in a laboratory. Most states also require technologists to be licensed. To maintain their certification and licensure, technologists must complete continuing education courses on a regular basis.
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