Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
Medical and clinical laboratory technologists perform complex tests on blood, tissue, and other samples to diagnose diseases and guide treatment decisions. They work in hospital laboratories, diagnostic testing facilities, and research centers, operating specialized equipment and following strict quality standards. Some positions involve training or supervising other laboratory staff.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against medical and clinical laboratory technologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing samples, running tests on automated and manual equipment, analyzing results, and documenting findings in patient records. Technologists troubleshoot equipment issues, maintain lab instruments, and ensure quality control by running calibration checks. They may process dozens of samples daily, working with strict protocols to prevent errors. Some days include coordinating with other departments or mentoring newer staff members.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited for this work if you enjoy solving problems systematically and working with precise technical procedures. You prefer hands-on tasks over abstract theory and have the patience for detailed, repetitive work that requires accuracy. Most successful technologists combine investigative thinking with practical, realistic problem-solving skills.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Medical Instrument Technologist (Vascular) · Veterans Health Administration · Cleveland, Ohio · $79603–$103480
- Medical Supply Technologist (Sterile Processing) · Veterans Health Administration · Johnson City, Tennessee · $32435–$63222
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $65,890 | $97,280 | $120,900 | 16,460 |
| Oregon | $62,360 | $83,010 | $102,950 | 2,660 |
| New Hampshire | $57,360 | $81,020 | $90,310 | 800 |
| Massachusetts | $54,020 | $79,120 | $99,130 | 10,850 |
| Vermont | $65,610 | $78,680 | $96,530 | 460 |
| District of Columbia | $58,600 | $76,560 | $102,560 | 960 |
| California | $56,700 | $76,010 | $89,480 | 29,210 |
| Rhode Island | $50,420 | $75,780 | $83,490 | 1,060 |
| Minnesota | $61,430 | $74,440 | $80,920 | 7,190 |
| Washington | $56,160 | $72,760 | $97,590 | 7,430 |
| Illinois | $53,820 | $71,950 | $82,880 | 10,330 |
| Colorado | $52,930 | $70,050 | $87,780 | 5,000 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) — American Society for Clinical Pathology
- Medical Laboratory Assistant — American Medical Technologists
- Medical Technologist (MT) — AAB - Board of Registry
- Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) — American Medical Technologists
- Clinical Chemistry Technologist (CCT) — National Registry of Certified Chemists
- Diplomate in Laboratory Management (DLM(ASCP)) — American Society for Clinical Pathology
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against medical and clinical laboratory technologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.