What is a Clinical Laboratory Scientist job?
A Clinical Laboratory Scientist, also known as a Medical Technologist, is a healthcare professional who performs a variety of laboratory tests to help diagnose, prevent and treat diseases. They work in different healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, research facilities, and private laboratories.
What usually do in this position?
In this position, a Clinical Laboratory Scientist performs laboratory tests on specimens, such as blood, urine, and tissues, to diagnose and treat diseases. They use complex laboratory equipment and techniques to analyze the samples and generate accurate reports for the doctors and healthcare professionals. They are responsible for maintaining the laboratory equipment, ensuring that the tests are performed accurately, and following the safety guidelines.
Top 5 Skills for this Position
As a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you need to possess the following skills:
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong computer and data management skills
How to become this type of specialist?
To become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, you need to have a Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field. You need to complete an accredited training program and pass a certification exam, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification exam. Some states require a license to practice as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Clinical Laboratory Scientists was $53,120 as of May 2020. The salary may vary depending on the experience, education, and location of the job.
Roles and Types
There are different types of Clinical Laboratory Scientists, including Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology, Immunology, and Blood Banking. Each type of specialist focuses on a specific area of laboratory testing. The roles of Clinical Laboratory Scientists may vary depending on the healthcare setting they work in. They may work as supervisors, managers, or educators in addition to performing the laboratory tests.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California, Texas, and New York are the states with the highest employment levels for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. The highest-paying states for this occupation were California, Alaska, and the District of Columbia.
What are the Typical Tools
Clinical Laboratory Scientists use a variety of tools and equipment, including microscopes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, automated analyzers, and computer systems. They also use a range of laboratory supplies, such as pipettes, test tubes, and slides.
In Conclusion
Clinical Laboratory Scientists play a crucial role in the healthcare system by providing accurate and timely laboratory testing to help diagnose and treat diseases. They require a high level of education and training to perform their job duties accurately and safely. The demand for Clinical Laboratory Scientists is expected to grow in the coming years, making it a promising career choice for those interested in the healthcare field.