Medical Laboratory Technician Job Descriptions, Average Salary, Interview Questions

Medical Laboratory Technician Responsibilities

Since MLTs are essential to specimen processing and the operation of a lab there are many responsibilities that will carry over no matter the company or location.

The below list represents the most common responsibilities for a MLT:

• Performing laboratory tests: Conduct a variety of tests on patient samples, including blood, urine, and tissue, to help diagnose medical conditions.
• Operating lab equipment: Use and maintain specialized laboratory instruments to carry out tests and analyses.
• Preparing specimens: Prepare and process samples for testing by following standardized procedures.
• Maintaining records: Accurately document test results and maintain patient information in laboratory information systems.
• Quality control: Perform routine quality control checks to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results.
• Calibrating equipment: Regularly calibrate lab equipment to ensure it functions correctly and provides accurate results.
• Communicating results: Relay test results to physicians and other healthcare professionals.
• Following safety protocols: Follow all health and safety guidelines to maintain a safe working environment and prevent contamination.

Medical Laboratory Technician Experience and Expertise

To get ahead as a medical laboratory technician, candidates need a combination of relevant experience, technical abilities, and soft skills. Here’s what hiring managers usually look for:

Prior experience

• Clinical laboratory work: Experience in hospitals, clinics, or independent labs gives practical knowledge of lab procedures and operations.
• Internships: Hands-on training through internships in medical laboratories helps build essential skills.
• Phlebotomy: Experience in drawing blood samples can be beneficial, particularly in settings where MLTs also perform phlebotomy.
• Research labs: Working in research labs can develop analytical skills and familiarity with laboratory equipment.

Hard skills

• Sample analysis: Proficiency in conducting tests on blood, urine, tissue, and other samples.
• Laboratory equipment: Ability to operate and maintain various lab instruments and equipment.
• Data management: Competence in entering and managing data within laboratory information systems.
• Quality control: Knowledge of quality control procedures to ensure test accuracy and reliability.
• Medical terminology: Understanding of common medical terms used in laboratory settings.

Soft skills

• Attention to detail: Necessary when performing tests and recording results.
• Organization: Keeps the lab organized and workflows efficient.
• Problem-solving: Quickly identifies and resolves issues that arise in the lab.
• Teamwork: Collaborates well with other lab staff and healthcare providers.
• Time management: Efficiently manages multiple tasks and prioritizes workload.

Medical Laboratory Technician Education and Certification

When working as a medical laboratory technician, specific education and certification requirements must be met. Typically, MLTs need at least an associate degree in medical laboratory technology or a related field, however often a bachelor’s degree in an area like biology is required. This education provides the foundational knowledge and hands-on training necessary to perform lab tests and operate laboratory equipment. In addition to formal education, certifications are often needed by employers to confirm adherence to industry standards.

Certifications:

• ASCP certification: Many hiring managers prefer or require certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), such as the MLT (ASCP) credential.
• AMT certification: Certification from the American Medical Technologists (AMT) is also recognized, such as the MLT (AMT) credential.
• State licensure: Some states require MLTs to be licensed. Requirements vary, so check with the state’s health board for specifics.