Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians
Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians perform medical laboratory tests for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.
Is clinical laboratory technologists and technicians a good career?
It scores 18/100 and ranks #392 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays above the U.S. median wage ($62,930)
- High volume of openings — about 22,600 a year
Possible tradeoffs
- Slower-than-average projected growth (+1.7%)
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What clinical laboratory technologists and technicians earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. clinical laboratory technologists and technicians earn between $47,650 and $81,450 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live clinical laboratory technologists and technicians jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow slower than average through 2034.
Education
High school students who are interested in becoming a clinical laboratory technologist or technician should take classes in chemistry, biology, and math.
Clinical laboratory technologists typically earn a bachelor's degree in medical technology or a related life sciences field, such as biology or chemistry.
Bachelor’s degree programs in medical laboratory technology, also known as a medical laboratory scientist degree, include courses in chemistry, biology, and hematology. Accredited programs typically include instruction in laboratory skills, such as safety procedures and lab management, as well as hands-on training in a hospital or other clinical setting. Some laboratory science programs can be completed in 2 years or less and require prior college coursework or a bachelor’s degree.
Clinical laboratory technicians typically complete an associate's degree program in clinical laboratory science. The Armed Forces and vocational or technical schools also may offer postsecondary certificate programs for medical laboratory technicians. Accredited technician programs provide skills in basic laboratory testing and, like medical laboratory scientist degree programs, may offer clinical experience.
Certain types of technologists, such as cytotechnologists, must attend specialized education programs.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Some states require laboratory personnel to be licensed or registered. Requirements vary by state and specialty. For specific requirements,
In some states, licensure requires certification. Although certification is not always required to enter the occupation, employers may prefer to hire certified technologists and technicians.
Individuals may earn certification as a medical laboratory scientist or medical laboratory technician. Completion of an accredited education program is typically required to sit for a certification exam.
Specialty certification is available in areas such as histology and clinical chemistry for those who meet requirements for additional education and work experience.
Advancement
Some clinical laboratory technicians advance to technologist positions after gaining experience and additional education.
Important qualities
Analytical skills. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians must examine the specimens they test to determine whether there are abnormalities.
Detail oriented. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians must follow instructions and laboratory procedures when performing tests.
Dexterity. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians must work carefully when handling needles, specimens, and laboratory equipment.
Interpersonal skills. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians may collect blood or tissue samples from patients who feel stressed. They must be supportive and sympathetic in their interactions with patients.
Physical stamina. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians may stand for long periods while collecting samples. They may need to lift or turn patients to collect samples for testing.
Related occupations
How much do clinical laboratory technologists and technicians make?
The national median wage is $62,930 a year, with the middle half earning between $47,650 and $81,450 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is clinical laboratory technologists and technicians a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 18 of 100 and ranks #392 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +1.7% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a clinical laboratory technologists and technician?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do clinical laboratory technologists and technicians earn the most?
Among states, New York pays the highest median ($97,280). Local pay for every state and metro is below.