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What does a Clinical Lab Tech do?

Author

Emma Newman

Published Feb 28, 2026

What does a Clinical Lab Tech do?

Clinical laboratory technologists (commonly known as medical laboratory scientists) and clinical laboratory technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.

Similarly, you may ask, how do I become a clinical laboratory technician?

To become a medical laboratory technician, you must earn a two-year associate's degree from an approved program and pass a certification exam, which you can take through one of two agencies: American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification. American Medical Technologists.

Likewise, how long does it take to become a clinical laboratory technician? Medical laboratory technicians often complete an associate's degree program in clinical laboratory science (two years). There are colleges and universities that offer programs for medical laboratory technicians.

Regarding this, how much do clinical lab techs make?

Clinical Laboratory Technicians made a median salary of $53,120 in 2019. The best-paid 25 percent made $68,100 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $39,030.

What is the difference between a clinical lab tech and a medical lab tech?

Medical technologists and clinical laboratory scientists perform the same roles, undergo the same training, and write the same examinations. The difference between them is purely one of terminology. Technologists can also earn specialized certifications in cytotechnology, histotechnology and other disciplines.

Can you be a lab tech without a degree?

The most common route to a laboratory technician's career is through a two-year associate degree program or a one-year certificate program for candidates who already hold a degree in a related health-care field such as nursing. However, it is possible to earn certification as a technician without completing a degree.

What degree do you need to be a lab tech?

Lab technicians need at minimum a high school diploma or equivalent to work. Most companies prefer at least an Associate's Degree in Laboratory Science or related major. It can be helpful to earn a degree from an institution accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences.

Can you become a medical lab tech online?

While many aspiring MLTs decide to enroll in traditional, on-campus programs, a growing number are pursuing their degree online. Currently there are several online medical lab technician degrees available from reputable schools, driven in part by the demand for people in this field as the industry expands.

How much does a MLT make an hour?

Medical laboratory technologists
Wages*Low (5th percentile)Median
Starting$20.00$20.97
Overall$23.00$23.00
Top$29.00$32.00

Where do lab technicians work?

Laboratory technologists work in a variety of facilities, including hospitals, cancer care centres, research facilities and community and public health labs.

Is Medical Lab Tech School Hard?

It's difficult, but absolutely doable, I think. You just have to commit time and effort, and you will succeed. Good Luck! I think it would be hard to take the mlt courses concurrently with all the other classes required for the degree, but since u have all those done, it will be easy.

Is a lab tech a good job?

When it comes to the field of medical lab technicians, however, you don't need to have any such fears. The job outlook is very positive, meaning that with a little experience and a solid education under your belt, you're likely to find success in this field.

Is MLT a stressful job?

There is no doubt that working as a medical lab technician has unique stress; however, it is a job that makes a huge impact on people's lives and global public health. That's a pretty amazing thing to think of after a long, tough day at work.

How much does a lab tech make with a bachelor's degree?

According to our 100% employer reported salary sources the median salary for a Biology Lab Technician with a Bachelor's Degree is $52,302 - $55,321. Please try our salary wizard to explore how other factors like location, Years of experience and number of direct reports can impact your base pay and bonus.

Do lab techs wear scrubs?

Laboratory assistants and technicians are required to meet the dress code requirements set forth by their employer. Often, scrubs or a lab coat are the required uniforms. There are also safety requirements for a laboratory that may require long hair to be tied back and no jewelry to be worn.

How much money does a XRAY TECH make a year?

As of 2019, the national average annual salary for radiologic technologists was $63,120. The highest-earning 10% made over $89,760, while the lowest-earning made $41,480 or less.

How many hours does a lab technician work?

40 hours

Is a medical lab technician the same as a phlebotomist?

Both phlebotomists and lab technicians collect bodily fluids from patients. However, phlebotomists take only blood samples and perform more clerical tasks such as printing orders and storing supplies. Lab technicians, on the other hand, help lab technologists collect samples and run tests in a laboratory.

How much does it cost to become a lab technician?

The average tuition & fees of Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician program at the schools is $16,250 for academic year 2019-2020. The average annual salary after completing Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician program is $60,810. Start your Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician Career!

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