A medical laboratory technician (MLT) is a healthcare professional who performs laboratory tests and procedures to help diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They work under the supervision of physicians, lab managers, or lab technologists to conduct lab tests on specimens such as blood, urine, and tissue samples. MLTs are responsible for collecting samples and performing tests to support doctors and other medical professionals as they detect diseases and treat patients. Some of the duties of an MLT include:
- Performing chemical analyses of body fluids using a microscope or other advanced lab equipment.
- Conducting less complex routine tests and laboratory procedures.
- Analyzing test results and relaying them to physicians.
- Maintaining and operating laboratory equipment.
To become an MLT, most individuals hold an Associate’s degree in clinical laboratory science or a related field. Professional certification, specialization, and/or a graduate degree in medical technology, one of the biological sciences, chemistry, management, or education can speed up advancement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical laboratory technicians is expected to increase by 11 percent through 2028, which is more than two times the projected average for all occupations.
