Lab Technician Education Requirements

Last Updated on July 28, 2023

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWRFMYKrFHk

Medical laboratory technicians require a two-year degree in clinical laboratory science while positions in medical laboratory science require a four-year degree.

Get more information about lab technician course after 12th, hospital lab technician requirements, lab technician qualifications needed uk, medical laboratory technician and medical lab technician schools online on Collegelearners.

Medical lab technicians, also known as clinical lab technicians, work in a clinical setting to conduct lab tests and procedures. These positions require completion of a certificate or associate’s degree program and on-the-job-training. If you have acute attention to detail and are interested in science and medicine, this might be the right career for you.

What Do Medical Lab Technicians Do?
Medical lab technicians (MLTs) conduct lab tests and procedures, usually under the supervision of more experienced professionals. Duties may include matching blood for transfusions, counting white blood cells, and determining the concentration of prescription drugs in a patient’s blood sample. MLTs also help collect and process tissue and blood samples that are used by doctors in diagnosing and treating patients. As a result, medical lab technicians are often employed by hospitals and other medical facilities.

Medical laboratory technicians process patient samples
medical laboratory technician
Medical lab technicians benefit from the following skills:

Attention to detail
Confidentiality
Ability to relate to patients and doctors
Organization
Ability to multi-task
Good communication Skills
How to Become a Medical Lab Technician
Most MLTs are trained through certificate or associate’s degree programs offered by community colleges and vocational schools. These programs generally require a year or two to complete and include classroom work, labs, and practical training. Graduates may be eligible to apply for certification from professional organizations.

Required Education Certificate or associate’s degree program in medical laboratory sciences
Other Requirements Optional certification
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* 7% for clinical laboratory technicians and technologists
Median Salary (2019)* $53,120 per year for clinical laboratory technicians and technologists
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

The steps to become a medical lab technician are as follows:

Choose an associate’s degree program or certification program
Graduate from the program
Complete a medical lab technician certification
Apply for medical lab technician jobs
Medical Laboratory Technician Qualifications
Although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that medical lab technicians may be trained on the job, the BLS also reports that most receive formal education through a certificate or associate’s degree program. The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) approves these educational programs, which are generally offered by junior colleges and vocational schools. There are also online options for medical lab technician programs.

Medical Lab Technician Course Requirements
You might be wondering how many years for medical laboratory technician training? On average, the process can take between 2 and 4 years. Let’s look at what education is needed to get started.

Prospective candidates must earn their high school diploma or its equivalent prior to applying. Some programs recommend that applicants complete mathematics and science courses while in high school. These courses may include:

Algebra
Biology
Chemistry
While certificate programs in medical laboratory sciences generally last one year, associate’s degree programs may take 1-2 years to complete. Both programs typically begin by introducing students to medical laboratory equipment and data analysis. Students may also be required to take sequences of courses such as:

Histology
Microbiology
Biochemistry
Phlebotomy
Hematology
Immune hematology
Public Health
Health management
Infectious disease
Healthcare information systems
Students learn techniques for examining bodily fluids and using lab equipment to search for problems with samples. Programs also include clinical practicums, which may include on-the-job training in urinalysis and mycology.

Medical Lab Technician Certification
Once training is complete, students are eligible to earn certifications offered by credentialing organizations, such as the American Medical Technologists and the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Certification generally requires passing a qualifying examination. Credentialing organizations may provide exam preparation material via their websites. For example, The ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) is a certification exam that can cover different specializations such as immunohistochemistry, biorepository science, lab informatics and more.

After certification is gained, medical lab technician requirements may include periodic continuing education courses in order to ensure their certification is maintained.

Similar Positions
While the terms medical and clinical are interchangeable in this job title and refer to the same position, the terms technician and technologist/scientist signify different jobs and job responsibilities. The main difference between a clinical lab technician and clinical lab technologist, or clinical lab scientist, is education level. While technicians require a certificate or associate’s degree, clinical laboratory technologists and clinical laboratory scientists have completed a 4-year bachelor’s degree program. Technologists and scientists also take a different certification exam and are trained to perform more complex and technical laboratory tests. They often supervise technicians in a lab setting, and they typically earn higher salaries.

Employment Projections and Salary
The BLS reports that clinical laboratory technicians and technologists in the 90th percentile or higher earned $81,530 or more per year, whereas the bottom 10th percentile earned $30,920 or less per year, as of May 2019. Employment opportunities in this field are expected to grow 7% from 2019 through 2029, which is much faster than the national average. Job growth is attributed to the need for diagnostic services among the country’s growing elderly population.

Medical laboratory technicians work in clinical environments and conduct necessary lab procedures such as blood work. Qualifications for this career typically include a 1-2 year training program and fulfillment of certification requirements.

STEPS TO BECOMING A LAB TECHNICIAN

Medical Lab Technicians can be fully trained and employed by completing a specialized two-year Associate’s degree program that covers all the requirements needed to obtain employment. In addition to the education program, Medical Lab Technicians can choose from a number of different career paths, certifications, and even continued education opportunities for future career advancement.

If you are interested in the exciting, scientific, and clinical role of this career field, here’s how to become a lab technician.

1. DETERMINE IF BECOMING A LAB TECHNICIAN IS RIGHT FOR YOU.

Like most long-term and skills-based careers, it is important to match the right candidates with the right role. This ensures long-term success and engagement in any given career. The job of a lab technician is best suited for those who are sympathetic, willing to help others, and thrive in fast-paced environments.

Lab techs are professionals who respect patient privacy and uphold integrity of the specific scientific approaches. Attention to detail and personal accountability are also excellent characteristics to have in this role. Much of the Medical Lab Technician’s role is in the ability to keep accurate records. Consistency, dependability, and organizational skills are vital elements to being a successful lab tech.

Background education and experience in technology, software, and computer programs is a tremendous asset as this role requires the use of data analysis systems. A Medical Lab Technician must also be someone who is willing to keep up-to-date with the advancements in the medical field.

If you feel you have the right personality and attitude to fulfill these roles, then you can begin your next step in becoming a lab technician.

Lab tech traits

2. OBTAIN A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA WITH NECESSARY COURSEWORK.

Before even beginning the specialized education required to become a lab tech, it’s important to have a basic high school Diploma. There are also specific areas of focus that can be completed in high school coursework which can help develop a solid foundation in becoming a Medical Lab Technician.

Credits in sciences like chemistry, biology, and advanced math are important subjects to excel at. Generally, these are necessary courses to have completed in high school to meet the acceptance requirements of technical schools. Courses in information technology and computers are assets as well. Achievements in English and communication will also be very helpful in the role of a lab technician who must regularly interact with other medical professionals.

Having these fundamentals as part of your high school education background will help you get the most out of your formal education and lead to a successful career as a lab tech.

3. COMPLETE AN ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE.

All Medical Lab Technicians must complete the appropriate technical education in order to obtain employment. To acquire the necessary education, you’ll complete a two-year associate’s degree program through an accredited college. This is the minimum requirement to become a certified Medical Lab Technician and work in a professional lab setting.

The Medical Lab Technician education programs are an exciting combination of classroom learning and practical hands-on experience. This balance helps you apply your theoretical knowledge and also your real-life experience, so you know what to expect once you enter the workforce.

In classroom study, lab tech you’ll learn medical terminology, as well as scientific studies in microbiology, anatomy, physiology, and other medical subjects. A focus on lab procedures, scientific data collections, record-keeping, and safety practices will also be part of the foundation of your education as a Medical Lab Technician.

The practical study component of the education program gives you the opportunity to simulate daily procedures of your future job. Externships are also available to further gain practical, hands-on experience. Many of these can even lead to an employment opportunity.

4. OBTAIN LICENSING AND OTHER CERTIFICATIONS.

Medical Laboratory Technology - Diploma

Though it isn’t always required, some states or individual employers do require that laboratory professionals become licensed or certified by specific associations. Becoming certified is also a way to add value to your resume and help you stand out from other potential candidates. The American Medical Technologists (AMT) is an organization that administers certification and professional memberships. Many healthcare professional choose to pursue their certification through AMT as a way to advance their career and continue sharpening their skills and knowledge.

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and the American Association of Bioanalysts (ABB) are two other organizations that issue certifications. Both of these associations require a certain amount of work experience before becoming eligible for their certifications.

Further certification can be obtained in specialized areas of practice such as medical biology or clinical chemistry. For more information about available certifications, visit the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Services (NAACLS).

Regardless of whether you decide to have a general or a specialized focus, some level of certification can be incredibly beneficial in adding value to your skills. Conduct research on the available options and choose the one you find best aligns with your career goals.

5. SEEK EMPLOYMENT AND OBTAIN A JOB.

There are a variety of medical and research facilities in need of professional Medical Lab Technicians. Lab technician jobs are usually found in hospitals, doctor’s offices, specialized clinics, and medical labs. While these are the most common places to find jobs as a Medical Lab Technician, universities, ambulatory care facilities, research labs, blood banks, and pharmaceutical manufacturers also hire professional lab technicians as part of their regular operations. While the role is generally to provide the same level of lab support, there are specific duties that will range from one type of facility to the next.

Often during the education program, employment is secured through the externships or practical work experience. Other career support services can also be helpful in finding the right job after graduation.

6. CONTINUE YOUR EDUCATION AND ADVANCE YOUR CAREER.

Your career path as a Medical Lab Technician doesn’t necessarily end once you’ve been hired out of college. There are several specializations and certifications you can complete after gaining work experience. Working for a few years will also help you decide which areas of the field interest you most. From there, you can choose which direction to advance your career.

Eventually you may decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree in a more specialized area such as chemistry, microbiology, or even management. Advanced education can provide greater opportunities within a variety of organizations. Research, product development, and administration or management are potential career paths once a graduate degree is obtained. The roles of Medical Lab Scientist or Technologist require a bachelor’s degree to meet the requirements of this position.

Boost your resume with certifications

Whether a graduate degree is obtained or not, continuing education in this field will be required. Technology, testing practices, and standards in medical laboratories continue to evolve. You will find it’s important to stay up-to-date with the ever-changing medical field.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN COLLEGE

During your two-year associate’s degree program, you can expect a diverse and challenging course load. Because any career in the medical field requires extensive knowledge of science and medical terminology, it will require a lot of studying and preparation for examinations. Additionally, the role of a Medical Lab Technician specifically requires excellent record keeping. The ability to stay organized and prepared will be vital to successfully completing the practical components of the program.

What to expect and ho to prepare to become a lab tech

 Medical Lab Technician programs provide students with the support and guidance of experienced professional instructors. These instructors have extensive expertise and backgrounds in their fields, and they pass along their knowledge and practical experience to their students. This type of professional environment gives students the confidence needed to enter the workforce.

There are plenty of opportunities to experience real-world medical lab scenarios through consistent hands-on training. Lab technician schools give students the chance to work with professional laboratory equipment, providing an exciting and practical experience that prepares you for employment.

LEARNING OUTCOMES OF THE LAB TECHNICIAN PROGRAM

The lab technician education program is designed to help students develop all the necessary skills required to obtain employment and be successful in their future jobs. Additionally, the program provides a foundation for further career advancement and continuing education.

While there are many skills acquired throughout the education program, some of the specific learning outcomes of the Medical Lab Technician program are:

  • Proper use of the computerized software and advanced lab equipment
  • Thorough follow-through on all scientific procedures
  • Specific and detailed record-keeping practices
  • Data collection and analysis practices for successfully determining test results
  • Safety, health, and sterilization practices of medical lab settings
  • Medical terminology required to work with other medical professionals
  • Professional expectations including respecting patient privacy

These skills are mandatory across all facilities and positions. They are vital requirements in becoming a competent Medical Lab Technician.

HOW LONG IT TAKES TO BECOME A LAB TECHNICIAN

Provided you’ve already obtained your high school diploma with the necessary credits, your associate’s degree required to become a Medical Lab Technician is two-year program. The program offers flexible scheduling to meet the demands of busy lifestyles. Full-time enrollment can help students complete the associate’s degree program in as little as 18 months.

HOW TO GET A JOB AS A LAB TECHNICIAN

During your education you will be provided with all the necessary skills and education required to obtain employment in a professional medical lab setting. Jobs in the medical field and particularly as a lab technician are in high demand. Health care continues to be an evolving field that demands highly-skilled professionals to meet the various needs of our growing population.

The experience gained in the Medical Lab Technician program can lead to direct placement with an employer through the practical work experience and potential externship experience. Upon completion of the associate degree’s requirements in the Medical Lab Technician program, you can begin applying to a variety of facilities.

At this point, you should assess which areas of the field you would most enjoy. Additionally, you should decide which ones will provide the most opportunity for advancement. Hospitals and physician offices seek professional and competent Medical Lab Technicians who can work flexible hours. If you are more interested in the research aspect of the role, then universities and research labs often look for enthusiastic and highly-skilled Medical Lab Techs. These lab techs participate in ongoing studies and projects and can be part of exciting new developments.

Depending on the employer and the facility, further licensing and certification may be required. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the individual requirements of each position.

While the Medical Lab Technician Associate’s Degree program prepares you for general practice as a lab tech, you may decide to become further specialized. Some employers provide the upgrading or ongoing training required. If there is a specialized career area you are interested in pursuing, discuss the opportunities with a career counselor or ask the employer about the opportunities for further training.

By continuing your education and employment training, it will begin to open up new opportunities to advance your career as a Medical Lab Technician and in the medical field in general.

If you are interested in the career opportunities as a Medical Lab Technician, learn more about our Medical Lab Technician Associate Degree program. An Admissions Representative will be happy to provide helpful information on what to expect at Vista College and with the Medical Lab Technician program.

How to Become a Medical Lab Technician in 4 Important Steps

You don’t have to be sewing up sutures or harvesting organs to help save lives. A medical lab technician (MLT) may work behind the scenes, but with their knowledge and expertise, they play an integral role in helping doctors first identify the root condition that needs to be treated.

Working under the supervision of lab technologists, medical lab techs perform tests, analyze body fluids and work with sophisticated laboratory equipment in order to help doctors and surgeons determine the best course of action for their patients.

But how do you become a medical lab technician, exactly? As someone who is passionate about healthcare, you’re itching to enter the field and start earning a paycheck while helping to save lives. If you’re looking for the simple, straightforward path to get there, we’ve got it here! Learn more about these four steps to learn how to become a medical lab technician.

4 Straightforward steps to become a medical lab technician

Instead of scouring the web for bits and pieces of information, we compiled a variety of information to provide you with this outline of how to become a medical lab tech.

1. Get educated

Though you may be in a hurry, you won’t be able to bypass the medical lab technician education requirements. You’ll most likely need an Associate’s degree to land a job, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).You’ll be happy to hear that these programs typically last fewer than two years – the Rasmussen College program can be completed in as few as 21 months.2

MLT programs will cover comprehensive courses that help students understand diagnostic testing, blood work safety standards and equipment and technology. Take a look at some of the courses included in the Rasmussen College program.

Medical lab technician courses:

  • Clinical chemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Hematology
  • Phlebotomy
  • Transfusion medicine.

Additionally, when searching for a quality MLT Associate’s degree program, it’s important to be sure it’s accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

2. Take the ASCP certification exam

Upon completion of an accredited program, you should be eligible to sit for the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) exam to acquire certification. Think of certification as sort of like your driver’s license. It’s the proof that signifies you really do know what you’re doing. This evidence of your competence in the medical lab field just puts you another step closer to landing your first job.

The Rasmussen College MLT program prepares graduates to take the ASCP certification exam – the application fee for each qualified student’s first exam attempt is even included in the program costs.3 It’s true that not all employers require certification, but job prospects will be best for MLT candidates who acquire professional certification, according to the BLS.1

3. Look into licensure

Medical lab technician requirements will vary by state. The BLS states that some areas may require that lab personnel get licensed. To find your local requirements, check with your state’s department of health, board of occupational licensing or visit the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) website to learn more.

4. Brush up on in-demand MLT skills

Before you begin applying for medical lab technician jobs, it’s helpful to know exactly what employers are looking for so you can be prepared and put your best foot forward. Working in a medical lab requires a unique blend of hard and soft skills.

We used real-time job analysis software to examine more than 110,000 MLT jobs posted over the past year.4 This data helped us identify the top hard and soft skills employers are seeking in potential lab technicians. Here’s what we found:

Top technical skills for MLTs:

  • Quality assurance and control
  • Chemistry
  • Phlebotomy
  • Laboratory testing
  • Patient care
  • Customer service
  • Laboratory equipment
  • Data entry
  • Microbiology
  • Occupational health and safety

These skills may seem intimidating at first glance, but rest assured that these are precisely the types of skills taught in a Medical Laboratory Technician program. But in addition to this technical training, there are some transferable skills that many successful MLTs share.

Top transferable skills for MLTs:

  • Communication
  • Organization
  • Attention to detail
  • Research
  • Problem solving

If you can identify with some of the traits above, you may be a natural fit for the field. Your medical lab technician education will help you round out your skills so you’re equipped to work in the medical lab.

Why now is the time to launch your MLT career

Now that you have a good understanding of the path towards pursuing a medical lab technician position, there are a few important career facts that might help solidify your interest in this field.

Medical lab technician job outlook

The first thing worth knowing is that opportunities are on the rise. The BLS projects MLT jobs to increase 11 percent through 2028, which is more than twice the average for all occupations.1 This spike has been spurred by the aging Baby Boomer population’s needs, such as using medical procedures to diagnose diabetes, cancer and other medical conditions. Additionally, prenatal testing for various conditions has become more common, and healthcare reform has enabled more and more people to seek out lab tests that were previously unaffordable.

Medical lab technician salary

Not only are qualified medical lab technicians in demand, they’re also well compensated. The BLS reports the 2018 median annual salary for MLT professionals was $52,330.1 Compare that to the $38,640 median annual salary for all occupations and you see why it’s favorable.

The MLT salary potential can fluctuate depending on several factors like experience, education, geographic area and the healthcare setting in which they’re employed. Those who work in hospitals tend to have the highest compensation levels, according to the BLS.1

Take the first step towards a rewarding MLT career

Now that you know how to become a medical lab technician and why the timing is right—what are you waiting for? Get started on those steps today by learning more about how our Medical Lab Technician Program can help equip you with the practical knowledge and hands on training you need to succeed in the field.

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN: JOB DESCRIPTION

Laboratory technicians support laboratory-based scientific investigations by undertaking a range of routine technical tasks and experiments.
You don’t need a science degree to become a technician – but you will need a logical mind and good communication skills.

What does a laboratory technician do? Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills

Laboratory technicians are the backbone of a scientific research lab. Their work is almost entirely laboratory-based and technicians may work alone or as part of a team of scientific staff. They can work in most areas of science including forensics, health and manufacturing.

The area a laboratory technician works in will largely dictate the work they do. If they’re in a medical environment, they might be analysing body fluids or tissues, conducting blood tests and examining cells. If they work for a food and drink manufacturer, they might be testing food and drink samples to detect contamination or ensure quality.

Typical responsibilities of a lab technician include:

conducting and supporting scientific investigations and experiments
planning, setting up and undertaking controlled experiments and trials
recording and analysing data
demonstrating procedures
collecting, preparing and/or testing samples
maintaining, calibrating, cleaning and testing sterility of the equipment
providing technical support
presenting results to senior staff
writing reports, reviews and summaries
keeping up to date with relevant scientific and technical developments
supervising staff
carrying out risk assessments
ordering and maintaining stock and resources
Typical employers of laboratory technicians
Environmental agencies
Specialist research organisations or consultancies
Universities
Hospitals and clinics
The Civil Service
Water companies
Pharmaceutical companies
Chemical companies
Food and drink companies
Early applications are recommended for opportunities with major employers. Vacancies are advertised by recruitment agencies and careers services, in newspapers, in relevant scientific publications such as New Scientist, Science, Nature and Laboratory News and their online equivalents and in journals published by the professional institutions.

The recruitment process is likely to involve a technical interview. Read our article on technical interviews to find out what these involve and how you can tackle them.
If you’d like to find out what your salary might look like, take a look at our article on how much you might earn in science on our TARGETcareers website.
Qualifications and training required
Both university graduates and school leavers can become lab technicians. Graduates will need a degree in a relevant scientific subject such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry or physics. They will typically start off as a laboratory technician and work their way up to a more senior research and development role.

A school leaver can apply for an apprenticeship or an entry-level role. Typically, you’ll need GCSEs or Standard Grades and you might also need A levels or Scottish Highers, including a scientific subject. With experience, a school leaver could progress to a supervisor role in the lab. To move into a research role, however, you would need to get a degree.

To find out about how you can get into this career via a school leaver route (eg an apprenticeship or a school leaver training programme), see the science section of TARGETcareers, our website aimed at school leavers.

Key skills for laboratory technicians
Independence
Meticulous attention to detail
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Good teamworking skills
Analytical skills
Time management

Learn About Being a Lab Technician

What does a lab technician do?

A lab technician performs highly mechanical, technical, or diagnostic tests in a scientific laboratory. Lab techs may work independently or under the direction of a professional in a laboratory or field setting. They are responsible for a variety of tasks, including recording data, protecting the accuracy and efficiency of scientific experiments, maintaining equipment and lab tools and keeping the lab organized. All work that lab technicians complete follows strict guidelines and regulations. 

Lab technicians have the following responsibilities:

  • Conducting experiments, gathering data and performing basic investigations
  • Adjusting, calibrating and ensuring the proper function of laboratory equipment and instruments
  • Disinfecting and cleaning working area and equipment
  • Preparing catalogs and identifying biological samples for storage or examination
  • Maintaining accurate and detailed records of research findings and entering results in a database
  • Ordering and stocking lab supplies

Average salary

Most lab technicians are full-time employees who make an hourly wage. Depending on the type of work, location and size of the organization, a lab technician’s salary can vary. 

  • Common salary in the U.S.: $17.56 per hour
  • Typical salaries range from $7.25 to $41.30 per hour.

Lab technician requirements

Lab technicians often have a mix of education, training, skills and certifications to perform their job effectively. 

Education

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. You can obtain a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Laboratory Sciences to gain more knowledge about the field and increase your earning potential. 

Training

The type of training lab technicians receive depends on the field. Institutions often instruct lab techs on specific laboratory procedures during on-the-job training. Training could include learning about particular methods, preparing reports and how to dispose of waste properly.

Lab techs can also receive off-the-job training in the form of scientific seminars and conferences. There are a variety of conferences lab techs can attend depending on their fields and specializations. During these conferences, they can learn more about their fields to help them stay current with industry trends and scientific discoveries. 

Certifications

Some lab technicians need to obtain certifications to work. Certifications include:

Medical Lab Technician certification

Offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology or the American Association of Bioanalysts, an MLT demonstrates your ability to work proficiently in a medical laboratory. Many states require an MLT to work as a lab technician in a medical setting. To earn an MLT, you must have your associate’s degree and attend an extensive training course. After meeting the requirements, you must pass an exam. You must renew your certification every three years by submitting proof of your ongoing training and education. 

Medical Laboratory Scientist certification

Also offered by the ASCP or the AAB, an MLS certification shows you can perform higher responsibilities in a medical laboratory. To earn an MLS, you must have a bachelor’s degree and experience in a lab. Other requirements include obtaining another relevant certification and completing a training program. You must also pass an exam. You will need to renew your MLS every three years by submitting proof of your ongoing training and education. 

Skills

Depending on the type and nature of the company, lab technicians will need a diverse set of skills. The most common skills shared by lab techs include: 

Problem-solving

Lab techs should be able to review a variety of data and choose the appropriate solution. The problem-solving process should be systematic and thorough to obtain satisfactory results. 

Analysis

Since lab techs often need to gather and analyze large amounts of data and information. They should be able to find connections in results by using analytical methods.

Organization

Both organized records and work environments help lab techs perform their jobs effectively. They should be able to sort through records quickly and keep their work area clean to maintain safety standards. 

Communication

Lab techs often work closely with coworkers, so the ability to communicate verbally is essential. They should be able to work together to complete tasks and experiments.  Additionally, lab techs should have excellent written communication skills as they need to write reports on their findings so that others can understand the information.

Time management

Lab techs sometimes perform timed tests. They should be able to schedule their days so they can monitor each step of the process. Good time-management skills also help lab technicians complete a variety of concurrent tasks.

Lab technician work environment

Depending on the field, a lab technician may work in the following settings: 

  • Laboratories: Many lab techs work in a laboratory environment where they handle hazardous materials. 
  • Offices: Laboratory technicians can work in an office environment collecting, analyzing and writing data results.
  • Construction sites: Lab techs may work on a construction site obtaining soil and water samples.
  • Industrial plants: Industrial plants hire lab techs to perform experiments on new chemicals and record results.

In many of these settings, lab techs may have a designated workspace, called a lab bench, where they use a variety of scientific instruments to perform tests and analyze results. Lab technicians could spend their time sitting, standing and moving around their workspace while completing tasks.

Depending on the role and environment, lab techs will wear pants, close-toed shoes and shirts with long sleeves. They may also wear protective gear, such as goggles, a lab coat and gloves.

Depending on the setting, lab techs can work a variety of hours. Most lab techs work full time during regular business hours, though some overtime may be necessary when conducting extensive research. Some lab techs may work occasional nights and weekends when conducting a timed experiment.

About the author

The Editorial Team at Infolearners.com is dedicated to providing the best information on learning. From attaining a certificate in marketing to earning an MBA, we have all you need. If you feel lost, reach out to an admission officer.
Study on Scholarship Today -- Check your eligibility for up to 100% scholarship.

Leave a Comment