Law Enforcement

How To Get A Job As A Laboratory Technologist

Job opportunities are excellent for qualified Laboratory Technologists.

Literally all branches of medicine, dentistry, and science, as well as criminal investigations, use the services of Laboratory Technologists.  These Technologists work in hospitals, medical offices, government, and independent laboratories.  Technologists work in clean bright surroundings.  Usually the work is not hazardous, but because some of the materials handled may be infectious or toxic, protective masks and clothing may be required.

Technologists usually work a regular eight hour day, but may be required to work  shifts, overtime or on an emergency basis, depending on the size of the facility, the work load, and nature of their employment.

The work of Laboratory Technologists requires an analytical mind, good judgment, and the ability to concentrate for long periods of time.  If you get a job as a Laboratory Technologists, you must also be curious, exacting, observant, detail oriented,  have good manual dexterity, good color discrimination, and good computer skills.

Laboratory Technologists have a variety of duties, depending on their education and level of experience.  They may gather information, analyze materials, develop testing procedures, perform tests, monitor progress, collect and record data, evaluate test results, retest if necessary, write reports, and relay information to the appropriate individual or organization. Laboratory Technologists are also often responsible for supervising the work of Laboratory Technicians and other personnel.

In the course of their work Laboratory Technologists use a variety of sophisticated laboratory equipment and computerized instruments.

Education

If you wish to get a job as a Laboratory Technologist, and are still in high school, it would be wise to take courses in English, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, and Computer Sciences.  If possible try to get some experience in the field of medicine or science, whether paid or volunteer.  To understand fully what the work involves, make an effort to ‘shadow’ a professional Laboratory Technologist.  Your councilor or school principal can help you arrange this.

You will need to first obtain your high school diploma.  Make every effort to graduate with a high GPA as this may affect your future plans.

To get a job as a Laboratory Technologist you need to go to university and obtain a Bachelor’s degree, with a concentration in medical technology.  Other course should relate to your area of interest and will include such subjects as biological science, mathematics, statistics, chemistry, microbiology, and related computer applications.

Make sure the course you choose is accredited.  To find accredited courses, go to the following site, The National Accrediting Agency For Clinical Laboratory Sciences.

http://www.naacls.org/

Some states require their Laboratory Technologists to be licensed.  Your state department of health can let you know what your particular state requires.  Although licensing requirements may vary, they usually require the passing of an exam in addition to a Bachelor’s degree.

Although not all employers demand certification, many do.  Certification testifies as to your education and level of experience so, whether or not certification is required, it would be a wise addition to your qualifications.  Various organizations provide certification, and they vary in their demands.  Investigate what each demands and obtain your certification if at all possible.

Job opportunities are excellent for qualified Laboratory Technologists.  With sufficient education and experience, Technologists can advance to positions as supervisors and managers.  There are also positions in marketing and sales of laboratory equipment. Laboratory directors need at least a Master’s degree.  Some require a Doctorate.

Be aware that the better your education, the better will be your opportunities for employment.