What Does a Medical Laboratory Technician Do?
A medical laboratory technician (MLT) is responsible for collecting, preparing, and analyzing biological specimens to help diagnose, monitor, and treat diseases. Working under the supervision of medical technologists or laboratory supervisors, MLTs perform routine tests on blood, urine, tissue, and other samples using both manual techniques and automated instruments. Their work plays a vital role in supporting timely, evidence-based medical decisions.
Medical laboratory technicians ensure accuracy and quality through strict adherence to protocols, quality control procedures, and safety regulations. They document results, calibrate equipment, maintain laboratory supplies, and may also draw blood (phlebotomy) in certain settings. MLTs are essential members of the clinical team, helping maintain compliance with regulatory agencies such as CLIA, CAP, and OSHA, while ensuring accurate, efficient processing in high-volume laboratory environments.
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Medical Lab Tech Core Responsibilities
- Perform diagnostic testing on blood, urine, and tissue samples
- Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and automated analyzers
- Follow quality control and quality assurance protocols
- Document and report accurate test results to physicians or supervisors
- Prepare reagents, stains, and other lab materials as needed
- Collect specimens from patients, including phlebotomy procedures (if applicable)
- Ensure compliance with laboratory safety and regulatory standards
- Maintain accurate records for audits, inspections, and accreditation
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in laboratory equipment, microscopes, and automated analyzers
- Knowledge of clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and immunology
- Understanding of quality control procedures and specimen handling
- Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS)
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Time management and multitasking in fast-paced settings
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Clear communication for documenting and reporting results
Education
- Associate’s degree in medical laboratory technology or clinical laboratory science
- Completion of an NAACLS-accredited MLT program
Certifications
- Required or strongly preferred:
- MLT (ASCP) – American Society for Clinical Pathology
- AMT MLT – American Medical Technologists
- Recommended: BLS certification if performing phlebotomy
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–2 years of experience in a clinical laboratory setting
- Familiarity with CLIA, OSHA, and CAP regulatory requirements
- Experience in a high-volume or specialty lab environment
National Average Salary
MLT salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Medical Laboratory Technician is:
$61,976
The pay for medical lab techs varies based on factors such as location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility. The national average salary for MLTs is around $61,970 annually, but many are paid hourly, typically ranging from $20 to $30 per hour. Urban areas and specialized medical facilities often offer higher wages compared to smaller clinics and hospitals. As with most jobs, MLTs with more experience or additional certifications will earn higher pay.
Sample Job Description Templates for MLTs
Entry-Level Medical Laboratory Technician
Position Overview
We are seeking an Entry-Level Medical Laboratory Technician to join our clinical diagnostics team. This role is ideal for recent graduates looking to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced laboratory environment. You’ll assist in performing routine tests under supervision, preparing specimens, and operating lab equipment while learning industry-standard procedures and compliance protocols.
Responsibilities
- Assist in performing routine lab tests (e.g., urinalysis, CBCs, chemistry panels)
- Prepare biological specimens for analysis
- Operate and maintain basic lab equipment and analyzers
- Follow safety and infection control guidelines
- Record and report test results accurately
- Support laboratory inventory and supply management
- Participate in training and continuing education
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with basic lab procedures and specimen handling
- Exposure to hematology, chemistry, and microbiology concepts
- Ability to follow SOPs and quality assurance guidelines
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Willingness to learn and take direction
- Time management and organizational skills
Education
- Associate’s degree in medical laboratory technology or related field
- Completion of an accredited MLT program
Certifications
- Not required for entry
- Preferred: Eligible for or pursuing MLT (ASCP) certification
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship, clinical rotation, or practicum in a healthcare lab setting
Certified MLT (ASCP)
Position Overview
We are hiring a Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT, ASCP) to perform a full range of clinical laboratory tests across multiple departments. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely diagnostic data that supports patient care decisions. The ideal candidate brings technical expertise, regulatory awareness, and strong teamwork.
Responsibilities
- Conduct moderate-complexity testing in chemistry, hematology, urinalysis, and immunology
- Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments
- Validate and report results through the Laboratory Information System (LIS)
- Perform quality control and proficiency testing
- Maintain documentation in accordance with CLIA and CAP guidelines
- Participate in continuing education and lab process improvements
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with automated analyzers and microscopy
- Understanding of laboratory compliance and safety standards
- Competence in specimen processing, labeling, and chain of custody
Soft skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Dependability and accountability under minimal supervision
- Ability to communicate effectively with lab and clinical staff
Education
- Associate’s degree from an NAACLS-accredited MLT program
Certifications
- Required: MLT (ASCP) or equivalent nationally recognized credential
Preferred Qualifications
- 1+ year of experience in a hospital or high-volume laboratory
Senior Laboratory Technician
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Laboratory Technician to take on advanced testing responsibilities, mentor junior staff, and ensure adherence to quality standards. This position plays a key role in maintaining lab efficiency, supporting clinical accuracy, and implementing best practices across all lab departments.
Responsibilities
- Perform high-complexity tests and troubleshoot abnormal results
- Act as technical resource for entry-level and junior technicians
- Conduct advanced equipment calibration and maintenance
- Assist with implementing new test protocols and training materials
- Ensure compliance with laboratory accreditation standards (CAP, CLIA, OSHA)
- Support audits, inspections, and inventory control
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced proficiency in clinical test methodologies
- Experience with LIS and middleware systems
- Familiarity with regulatory documentation and QA protocols
Soft skills
- Mentorship and leadership abilities
- Strong documentation and analytical thinking
- Excellent time management in high-volume environments
Education
- Associate’s degree in clinical laboratory science or related field
- Bachelor’s degree preferred for senior roles
Certifications
- Required: MLT (ASCP), AMT, or equivalent
- Recommended: BLS certification
Preferred Qualifications
- 3–5 years of lab experience, preferably in a hospital or reference lab
Laboratory Quality Control Technician
Position Overview
We are hiring a Laboratory Quality Control Specialist to monitor, evaluate, and improve laboratory testing accuracy and regulatory compliance. This role will be instrumental in developing and overseeing internal quality control processes that ensure test reliability and support successful inspections and accreditations.
Responsibilities
- Design and maintain quality control programs across lab departments
- Analyze QC data and identify trends or variances
- Oversee proficiency testing and corrective actions for failed events
- Develop SOPs and ensure alignment with CAP, CLIA, and ISO standards
- Assist with training lab staff on QC procedures and documentation
- Prepare reports and documentation for audits and inspections
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of QA/QC principles in clinical laboratory settings
- Familiarity with lab accreditation requirements and regulatory frameworks
- Data analysis skills using LIS or QC tracking software
Soft skills
- High attention to detail and investigative mindset
- Strong written and verbal communication
- Ability to educate and influence peers and leadership
Education
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or similar
Certifications
- Required: MLT (ASCP) or equivalent
- Recommended: Certification or training in laboratory quality management
Preferred Qualifications
- 4+ years of lab experience, with at least 1–2 years in a QA/QC-focused role
Lab Team Lead
Position Overview
We are seeking a Lab Team Lead to coordinate day-to-day operations, provide technical oversight, and ensure consistent quality across the laboratory. This position combines leadership, quality assurance, and staff development responsibilities during assigned shifts.
Responsibilities
- Assign and monitor daily workloads and testing priorities
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to lab staff
- Ensure equipment functionality and coordinate maintenance as needed
- Conduct performance checks and manage shift documentation
- Resolve testing issues or delays and escalate as appropriate
- Support inventory management and supply ordering
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficient in all core areas of lab testing (chemistry, hematology, microbiology, etc.)
- Understanding of scheduling, workflow optimization, and staff coverage
- Familiarity with CLIA and CAP compliance during daily operations
Soft skills
- Team leadership and conflict resolution
- Decision-making under pressure
- Effective communication and staff coordination
Education
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in laboratory science or related field
Certifications
- Required: MLT (ASCP), AMT, or equivalent
- Recommended: Leadership or supervisory training
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of lab experience with at least 1 year in a leadership or trainer role