What does a Medical Technologist do?
A medical technologist is responsible for performing professional laboratory work following established clinic procedures and performing chemical and biological tests on patient specimens for medical diagnosis. Medical technologists conduct laboratory tests, procedures, experiments, and analyses to provide data for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. They analyze bodily fluids like blood, urine, and spinal fluid, to determine the presence of normal and abnormal components. Medical technologists typically work in laboratory facilities.
A Bachelor's Degree in medical technology along with 2 years experience is required for medical technologist positions. A valid ASCP certification is also required. Successful medical technologists possess a strong eye for detail and strong communication skills.
- Studies blood cells, their numbers, and morphology using a microscopic technique
- Analyze test results and enters findings in computer
- Perform blood group, type, and compatibility tests for transfusion purposes
- Troubleshoot, diagnose and repair any issues with the equipment used in the laboratory
- Perform radiographic procedures at a technically acceptable level
- Maintain quality assurance of the laboratory by performing proficiency testing
- Reduce the potential for liability by following established practices and procedures for completing x-rays as requested by the physician
- Perform radiographic procedures at a technically acceptable level
- 2+ years' experience as a Medical Technologist
- Valid ASCP certification required
- Previous experience as in a hospital laboratory setting preferred
- Specialization in areas such as hematology, blood-bank, serology, immunohematology, bacteriology, histology, or chemistry
- Must possess a strong eye for detail
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
- Deeply analytical with strong mathematical abilities
- Able to lift 20 pounds
Medical Technologist Salaries
Average Base Pay
Medical Technologist Career Path
Learn how to become a Medical 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
Medical Technologist Insights
Grifols“This is a stable job and I've found my coworkers to be kind and helpful.”
Labcorp“Upward career development is available pretty much everywhere if you can endure the cons long enough.”
Divine Word Missionaries“Their staff trainings and seminar is really great in terms of ones career growth and development.”
Oncologica® UK“People are hired and fired on short term/0 hour contracts so there is no job security.”
Cleveland Clinic“You pay for parking and the insurance isn’t as good as it should be in my opinion.”
Revature“You get a great opportunity to get hired on with a large company to start your career.”
Dentsu International“Good luck getting a fair salary increase based on merit if you're a compliant introverted worker bee.”
EC-Council“As a certification technologist I got to work with various clients globally so was a great experience.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Medical Technologist
When working as a Medical Technologist, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are ASCP, Laboratory Information Systems, Protocols, Diagnosis and Effective Communication.
- Physician Assistant
- Medical Laboratory Tech
- Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Clinical Laboratory Technologist
The most common qualifications to become a Medical Technologist is a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.