What does a Laboratory Technologist do?
Clinical laboratory technologists perform research and conduct technical procedures in a laboratory or clinical setting. Their work frequently involves materials and concepts of a highly sophisticated or complex nature. They perform advanced testing, conduct experiments, and gather information using a variety of other research methods. They commonly use sensitive and complicated tools and equipment, guided by cutting-edge programs and platforms. They collect and analyze data and compile reports highlighting significant findings. They are also responsible for maintaining and calibrating lab equipment.
Clinical laboratory technologists typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in a scientific or technical field, and a background involving clinical research. They must have hands-on experience operating and maintaining laboratory equipment. These roles require meticulous attention to detail, and strong data analysis skills.
- Participate, as requested, in the training of new employees.
- Perform laboratory tests, interpret results, document and report results.
- Prepare specimens for analysis and organize tests to be performed.
- Utilize laboratory information systems or other methods to accurately and effectively report patient results.
- Verify proper instrument function by checking and calibrating lab instruments and documents data.
- Operate, calibrate, and conduct performance checks and maintain any laboratory analyzers or equipment.
- Evaluate results of QC and implement corrective action when indicated.
- Ensure accurate orders for proficiency surveys and accurate submission of survey data.
- Recognize and correct basic analyzer malfunctions and notify management personnel when appropriate.
- Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.
- Be prepared to sit, use a keyboard, type, and occasionally stand and move to other parts of the lab.
- Courteously answer the telephone, take messages and transfer calls as indicated.
- Instruct or assist patients with changing into a gown.
- Maintain current policies and procedures in department and ensure completion of electronic documents according to established assignments and timelines.
- Maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens.
- Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and either correct the problems or immediately notify a supervisor.
- Perform high complexity clinical assays according to written SOPs.
- Use systems and software to locate patient records, review history and data and test order verification.
- Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in biology, life sciences, medical technology, or science or equivalent experience.
- Experience with ASCP, BCLS, and C software and systems.
- Demonstrated attention to detail and sound judgment alongside time management and critical thinking skills.
- Fluency in writing protocols and HIP AAA procedures and protocols.
- Familiar with procedures such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation or extractions and other required procedures.
- Dedicated to problem solving.
- Show a considerable degree of independent judgment regarding the performance and reporting of results.
How much does a Laboratory Technologist make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$57,682
/ yrLaboratory Technologist Career Path
Learn how to become a Laboratory Technologist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Laboratory Technologist Insights
Pacesetter Personnel Services“Good money and it was good”
Color“I quit because that place was getting too toxic for my taste besides the fact that there is no career growth opportunities.”
RDx BioScience“I enjoyed nightshift as there were less people around and I was able to get my work done efficiently.”
RDx BioScience“Hourly pay rate was reasonable.”
Tempus Labs“who could tell me what my new pay would be before I received the paycheck that the change applied to.”
Labcorp“Consistent schedule and things to do if you enjoy helping people.”
Dow“good work and life balance.”
Cellnetix“Everyone I worked with cared about about doing the best work for our patients and it inspired me to do the same when I joined.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Laboratory Technologist
- Medical Laboratory Tech
- Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Medical Technologist
- Phlebotomist