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What does a Medical Technician do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A medical technician is a professional who provides technical support to medical staff and patients. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. Medical technicians typically have an associate's degree or certificate in medical technology.

Medical Technician job duties include:

  • Performing diagnostic tests on patients, such as blood and urine tests
  • Recording and analyzing test results
  • Operating medical equipment, such as X-ray machines and electrocardiogram (EKG) machines
  • Assisting physicians with patient examinations
  • Preparing patients for diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays and MRIs
  • Drawing blood from patients
  • Administering injections and vaccinations
  • Providing first aid treatment
  • Educating patients about their health conditions and medications

Medical Technician Job Requirements

A medical technician typically has an associate's degree in medical technology or a related field. Certification from the American Medical Technologists (AMT) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is generally required. One to three years of experience is typically required.

Medical Technician Skills

  • Analytical skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Communication skills
  • Computer literacy
  • Critical thinking
  • Empathy
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Knowledge of medical terminology
  • Organizational skills
  • Patience
  • Physical stamina
  • Problem-solving skills

Related: Top Medical Technician Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Medical Technician

There are many ways to become a medical technician. One way is to attend a two-year college and complete a medical technician program. Alternatively, many four-year colleges and universities offer medical technician programs as well. After completing a medical technician program, graduates will be eligible to take the Certified Medical Technician (CMT) exam administered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT). To become a Registered Medical Technician (RMT), one must pass the CMT exam and have at least one year of full-time work experience as a medical technician. Finally, to become a Board Certified Medical Technician (BCMT), one must pass the CMT exam and have five years of full-time work experience as a medical technician.

Related: Medical Technician Resume Example

Related: Medical Technician Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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