Laboratory Testing Technicians
Overview
Introduction
Laboratory testing technicians conduct tests on countless substances and products. Their laboratory duties include measuring and evaluating materials and running quality control tests. They work in a variety of unrelated fields, such as medicine, metallurgy, manufacturing, geology, and meteorology. Therefore, students interested in a career as a laboratory testing technician should look for job titles such as metallurgical, medical, or pharmaceutical technicians.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Earnings for laboratory testing technicians vary based on the type of work they do, their education and experience, and even the size of the laboratory and its location. For example, the U.S. Department of Labor reported that in May 2018 the median annual earnings of medical and clinical laboratory technicians were $52,330. Salaries ranged from less than $29,910 to $80,330 or more annually. Geo...
Work Environment
Laboratory testing technicians typically work a 40-hour week. During especially busy times or in special circumstances, they may be required to work overtime. Most technicians work in clean, well-lighted laboratories where attention is paid to neatness and organization. Some laboratory testing technicians have their own offices, while others work in large single-room laboratories.
Some t...
Outlook
Overall, employment for laboratory workers is expected to be good. Employment for medical and clinical technicians should grow 11 percent through 2028, or much faster than the average, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Job opportunities at testing laboratories will be affected by advances in technology. New testing procedures that are developed will lead to an increase in the testing t...
