LABORATORY

Those who work in a laboratory (lab) process/perform tests to diagnose diseases plus more.  Some careers in the laboratory field may include:

LABORATORY ASSISTANT

Assists technical staff with specimen receipt and preparation, inventory, environmental controls, communication and documentation.  Performs waived testing.

Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent plus on-the-job training

CERTIFIED PHLEBOTOMIST

Collects blood, urine and swab specimens.  Performs breath alcohol testing. Collects chain of custody drug screens.

Requirements: Completion of Phlebotomy Certification

HISTOLOGY TECHNICIAN

Receives/prepares tissue specimens for examination.  Performs special stains for differential diagnosis. Assists pathologists.

Requirements: Associate’s Degree preferred

MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (MLT)  | MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENTIST (MLS)

Prepares samples for analysis. Performs and manages testing processes using instruments or kits. Performs quality controls, monitors supplies and interprets results.

Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in MLS/MT

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST (MT)

Manages testing processes.  Advises on proper test ordering.  Interprets results.  Trains staff /students.

Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in MLS/MT

PATHOLOGIST

Oversees clinical lab functions. Observes/interprets prepared tissue slides to diagnosis disease.

Requirements: MD or DO, with advanced Clinical Lab/Anatomic Pathology training