Clinical Laboratory Technician Working Conditions

In 2014 medical laboratory technologists held about 164,800 jobs, while medical laboratory technicians held another 163.400 jobs. Physical working conditions for the majority of lab technologists and technicians involve work settings in hospitals, which employ about 50% of the workforce, and medical and diagnostic laboratories, which employ another 17%. Other major work settings include physician offices and educational institutions.

Working conditions for technologists and technicians often require that they be on their feet for long periods collecting samples, and they may need to be able to lift or turn disabled patients. Laboratory working conditions are usually good as these facilities are normally clean and well lit, but some activities may involve materials that can produce fumes.

Medical laboratory personnel are trained for working conditions that include dealing with infectious specimens. When lab technologists and technicians follow proper methods to control infection and sterilize equipment, few hazards exist. They usually wear protective masks, gloves, and goggles for their safety and protection.

Most medical laboratory technologists and technicians work full time. Technologists and technicians who work in facilities that operate around the clock, such as hospitals and some independent laboratories, may have working conditions that include work during evening, weekend, or overnight hours.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition