What Does a Medical Technologist Do?
A medical technologist (MT) is a professional who performs advanced laboratory tests that help diagnose and treat diseases various medical conditions. Using highly specialized lab equipment, they analyze samples such as bodily fluids and tissues to provide information that doctors use for medical decisions. Technologists are proficient in various testing methods, including microbiology, hematology, immunology, and molecular diagnostics.
Outside of running tests, medical technologists are responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting lab equipment to ensure it functions correctly. They follow very strict protocols and safety standards to prevent contamination. Medical technologists also often supervise and train lab assistants and other support staff as senior members in the lab. Their detailed work plays a significant part in the diagnostic system in healthcare.
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National Average Salary
Medical technologist salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Medical Technologist is:
$79,637
The average salary for a medical technologist is currently falls in the $75,000 to $85,000 per year range. Compensation can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility. Generally, those working in larger hospitals or specialized medical labs may earn higher wages compared to those in smaller clinics or doctor’s offices.
Sample Job Descriptions
The job duties of a MT are going to be different depending on the company but much of the core requirements will remain the same. Here are some examples of past openings to give an example to go off of.
Medical lab technologist description
ABC company is seeking a dedicated medical technologist to join our lab staff. We pride ourselves on delivering accurate and timely results for our clients and need someone who can assist in providing that for our clients.
Responsibilities
- Conduct routine and specialized tests on patient samples, including blood, urine, and tissue.
- Prepare specimens for analysis, following standardized procedures.
- Use and maintain sophisticated lab equipment, ensuring all instruments are calibrated and functioning properly.
- Record and manage test results in the laboratory information system.
- Troubleshoot and resolve issues with lab equipment and test procedures.
- Perform quality assurance procedures to maintain high standards.
- Communicate results clearly to healthcare providers.
- Maintain a safe and clean laboratory environment by adhering to safety protocols.
Requirements
- 4 Years of experience in a technologist capacity
- Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, medical laboratory technology, or related field.
- Certification as an MT (AMT) or similar credential.
- Proficiency in operating advanced laboratory instruments.
- Strong data management and documentation skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a private or independent lab setting.
- Knowledge of quality control procedures and regulatory compliance.
- Excellent problem-solving skills.
Hospital medical technologist description
ABC Hospital Inc is looking for an experienced technologist to join our laboratory team. This is an excellent opportunity with an established leader in the healthcare industry.
Responsibilities
- Train and supervise lab assistants and other support staff.
- Operate and maintain advanced laboratory instruments, ensuring accurate results.
- Perform a variety of complex lab tests on blood, urine, and tissue samples.
- Prepare and process specimens, adhering to detailed protocols.
- Document and report test findings in the lab information system.
- Conduct quality control checks to ensure reliability of results.
- Communicate effectively with physicians and healthcare professionals about test results.
- Follow strict safety guidelines to maintain a safe lab environment.
Minimum requirements
- Previous experience in a hospital laboratory setting.
- 5+ years of experience working in a medical technologist role.
- 3+ years managing a laboratory team.
- Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems, specifically EPIC.
Education and certification:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program. Masters degree preferred.
- ASCP certification required.
- Registered with the state licensure board
Physician’s office medical technologist description
ABC Family Practice is hiring a Medical Technologist to support our in-house lab. We are a busy practice committed to providing top-notch care to our patients.
Duties
- Perform a wide range of lab tests and analyses on patient samples.
- Manage and operate lab equipment, ensuring everything is in working order.
- Prepare and label specimens accurately for testing.
- Document test results and maintain patient records in the lab information system.
- Implement quality control measures to ensure test accuracy.
- Interact with patients to collect samples when necessary.
- Supervise lab assistants and ensure they follow best practices.
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety standards in the lab.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a field like chemistry, biology or life sciences.
- 3+ years of laboratory experience.
- Certification as a Medical Technologist, either ASCP or AMT.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills for interacting with patients and healthcare providers.
- Experience working in a doctor’s office or outpatient lab is preferred.
- Familiarity with patient interaction and specimen collection.
- Ability to work independently and in a team.
Medical Technologist Education and Certification
To become a medical technologist candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in a scientific field if not a graduate degree. There are also several certifications that many companies and government bodies will require as well.
Required education:
- Bachelor’s degree: At least a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory technology, clinical laboratory science, Chemistry, or a related field is required. This education provides comprehensive training in laboratory procedures, instrumentation, and the principles of medical science. Many technologists also get master’s degrees to advance within their career.
- Accredited programs: Completing a program accredited by organizations such as the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) ensures that the education meets industry standards.
Certifications:
- ASCP certification: Many employers require certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), such as the MT (ASCP) credential. This certification demonstrates competence in laboratory skills and knowledge.
- AMT certification: Certification from the American Medical Technologists (AMT), such as the MT (AMT) credential, is also widely recognized and valued by employers.
- State licensure: Many states require medical technologists to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary, so reviewing state’s health board details is important.