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The medical field features a wide variety of laboratories. Medical, research, dental and ophthalmic labs are just a few. Technicians in these labs may undergo on-the-job training, or they may come to the jobs with a post-secondary certificate, an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree. So training for lab jobs can last as long as four years. Certification and licensing might take an additional month or two. Rules Vary
zhudifeng/iStock/Getty Images Each state regulates technicians in any sort of lab, although the regulations might vary according to the state or the type of lab. Some states have specific requirements regarding training or formal education, and might also require licensure or certification in addition to training. Even when the state has no formal requirements, employers often prefer to hire techs with formal training and certification. Training requirements and the time it takes to complete them vary for medical-clinical, dental, ophthalmic and biological lab technicians, according to the U.S. Bureau of Laboratory Statistics. The Medical Laboratory
stokkete/iStock/Getty Images Medical and clinical laboratory technicians work under the supervision of laboratory technologists. A post-secondary certificate is the minimum preparation for this occupation, according to the BLS. Some states require an associate degree. Certificate programs typically last one year, while an associate degree usually takes two years. Depending on the state, the graduate may also need to pass a licensing or certification exam. In some states, certification is required for licensure. A tech could become certified in general clinical laboratory science or in a specialty field such as cytology. Eyes and Teeth
Visivasnc/iStock/Getty Images Dental lab technicians construct dentures, bridges and plates. Ophthalmic lab technicians -- sometimes known as optical mechanics -- manufacture prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. These occupations do not have any formal educational requirements, although the BLS notes most techs have at least a high school diploma. Some community colleges or technical-vocational schools offer formal training. The dental programs typically last two or three years, according to the National Association of Dental Laboratories. Ophthalmic lab technicians are more likely to learn their skills on the job, however, according to the Explore Health Careers website. A Matter of Biology
StockRocket/iStock/Getty Images Biological lab technicians are likely to be the best-educated of all lab technicians. In many research labs, the biological tech is the person who performs and records the results of experiments, and also maintains the lab. They typically work on teams, under the supervision of a biologist or other scientist. A bachelor’s degree is required for this profession, according to the BLS, which recommends preparation begin in high school with courses and lab sessions in biology or other sciences. A bachelor’s degree -- most often in biology, or in a related science -- typically takes four years. Laboratory technicians collect samples on biological tissue and fluids to perform tests. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), laboratory technicians and technologists made a median salary of $54,180 per year in 2020. Lab technicians usually need an associate degree or a postsecondary certificate. You may have to be licensed in your state, as well. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of a bachelor's degree is $28,120 per year and an associate degree is $11,390 per year, so you would end up paying under half of the same tuition if you got an associate degree over a bachelor's degree. You could pay even less if you attend a trade school to earn a postsecondary certificate. Read on to learn how to become a lab tech. Steps to Becoming a Laboratory TechnicianStep 1 Enroll in a Laboratory Technician Program The first step to becoming a laboratory technician is to enter a lab tech training program. These programs are usually offered as two-year associate degrees, often through technical and community colleges. You might also be able to find a certificate program for laboratory technicians, which typically takes around 12 months to complete. Courses cover lab skills, life sciences, and clinical credits. Step 2 Sit for Any Licensing Exams Your State Requires Your state may require a license to get a job as a laboratory technician. You may have to take an exam to show that you are proficient in the skills technicians use in a lab. These are administered by boards, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification, which is the oldest and largest certifying board for laboratory professionals. Check with your state for requirements. Step 3 Get Started in Your Career After you have completed your education and are certified, you can work on finding a job. Your lab tech program might offer help with your job search. Step 4 Continue Your Education Although optional, you can also get a bachelor's degree in fields like medical technology, a medical laboratory scientist degree, or a life sciences field like biology. This will open doors so you can work as a clinical or laboratory technologist. Coursework for this program involves more of a focus on life sciences, math, and laboratory management. Laboratory Technician Salaries and Job GrowthData from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Projections Central, a U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored website.Top 10 States with the Highest Job Growth:
What Does a Laboratory Technician Do?Lab Tech Careers Basic Laboratory technicians collect samples and run tests on body tissue, fluids, and other matter. These professionals need the skills to analyze bodily fluids and other samples to record their findings. They must know how to use a variety of lab equipment like computerized readers. Technicians typically do the types of tests that are more routine or automated. Career Paths for Lab TechsAt this level, lab techs usually have completed a certificate or associate degree in a laboratory technician program. They may also be licensed by their state. Laboratory technicians perform more routine or automated tests on biological materials. Those looking to advance their careers might become medical laboratory scientists, sometimes also called laboratory or clinical technologists. At this level, professionals will have a bachelor's degree in a life science, medical technology, or a more direct medical laboratory scientist degree. These professionals perform more complex tests and procedures in the lab, often requiring more complicated manual manipulation or analysis. These professionals often prepare human tissue in a lab setting to help a pathologist perform their duties. Pathologist assistants have to take undergraduate courses in life sciences like biology, chemistry, and microbiology. Pathology assistant programs then take two years to complete after obtaining a bachelor's degree and result in a master's degree. Programs include lectures and clinical experience. These professionals examine the body and body tissues and perform lab tests to help diagnose different diseases and disorders. A pathologist has completed medical school and has at least three years of residency training. FAQs on Becoming a Laboratory TechnicianYou will need to complete a laboratory technician program. These are typically offered as a certificate or associate program. Some states also require that you pass a licensing exam. The BLS lists laboratory technologists and technicians with a median annual salary of $54,180 in 2020. Certificate programs for laboratory technicians can run around one year, while an associate degree typically takes two years. The average associate degree costs $11,390 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. As an example of certificate program costs, the Fox Valley Technical College medical laboratory assistant certificate program costs around $3,000. Yes, you can find a laboratory technician program online. Lab Tech Training ProgramsIn your journey on how to become a lab tech, you would enroll in a laboratory technician program. Lab tech training programs typically offer a variety of science courses, like general anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology. Students might also take communication courses and psychology courses to help them work in a lab and team environment. From there, students take courses that teach them skills and other knowledge they'll be using in the lab, like:
A good program will also offer clinical experience credits. Related Career Options for Laboratory TechniciansMedical AssistantHelps with duties in a clinical setting like taking vital signs and maintaining patient records. Surgical TechAssists in surgeries, which may include responsibilities like sterilizing surgery equipment and keeping the equipment organized. PhlebotomistThese professionals assist the medical community by drawing blood. Latest PostsWhat degree is best for lab technician?A common path to becoming a medical laboratory technician is to complete an associate degree program. For example, NWHSU offers an Associate of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology. In addition, most employers require medical laboratory technicians to be certified.
What is the highest paid lab technician?The best Clinical Laboratory Technician jobs can pay up to $146,000 per year. Clinical laboratory technicians collect specimens for testing, including blood, urine, and body tissue.
What skills are needed to be a lab technician?Qualities of Laboratory Science Technicians. Good spoken and written communication skills.. Ability to multi task.. Good problem solving skills.. Ability to think analytically and critically.. Ability to read.. Enjoy learning.. Students should have a strong background in math and science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics). Is being a lab tech stressful?Yes, being a laboratory technician can be stressful as mistakes in handling test specimens/results could cause great harm to a patient.
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How long does it take to become a laboratory technician
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