How to Become a Medical Laboratory Technician
Run the routine lab tests behind diagnosis and treatment, working under medical laboratory scientists. It typically requires an associate degree, with a median salary of $62,930 per year and slower than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$62,930/yr
Job growth
1%
Openings / yr
22,600
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Specimen Processing
- Lab Instrumentation
- Quality Control
- Science
- Attention to Detail
Helpful certifications
- MLT (ASCP) certification
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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- Optometrist$136,570 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Medical Laboratory Technician make?
The median pay for a Medical Laboratory Technician is $62,930 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Medical Laboratory Technician?
The usual entry point is an associate degree. Common majors are Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, and Health Sciences.
Is Medical Laboratory Technician a growing field?
The BLS projects slower than average demand for this role, about 1% over the decade, with roughly 22,600 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Medical Laboratory Technician use most?
Common skills for this role are Specimen Processing, Lab Instrumentation, Quality Control, Science, and Attention to Detail.
Planning to become a Medical Laboratory Technician?
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.