Medical Laboratory Technician FAQ

About two years for a technician.

Most employers require it.

Usually not directly, though some draw blood.

The median annual wage for medical laboratory technicians was $62,930 ($30.26 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $38,910 and the highest 10% earned more than $100,990.

Most people need about 2 years (technician) or 4 years (technologist) of training. Technicians usually need an associate degree; technologists need a bachelor’s degree. Most employers require certification.

It depends on the role. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical for the combined group, but medical lab technicians usually enter with an associate degree and certification, while technologists need a bachelor’s.

It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.7% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 20,800 openings each year. Upsides include essential health care work without patient care; a common challenge is that shift work.

Key technical skills include clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and blood banking. Employers also value attention to detail, accuracy under pressure, and communication.

Common credentials include ASCP Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), ASCP Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), AMT Medical Technologist, and State laboratory license. A few states, including California and New York, license clinical laboratory personnel.