Medical laboratory technologists (commonly known as medical laboratory scientists) and medical laboratory technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.

About half of all medical laboratory technologists and technicians were employed in hospitals in 2014. Others worked in doctors' offices or diagnostic laboratories.

Medical laboratory technologists typically need a bachelor's degree. Technicians usually need an associate's degree or a postsecondary certificate. Some states require technologists and technicians to be licensed.

The median annual wage for medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians was $50,550 in May 2015.

Employment of medical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 16 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. An increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians with similar occupations.

Learn more about medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.