How to become Pathology Lab Technician.
Important information about Pathology Lab Technician
An associate's degree in laboratory science is usually a requirement for pathology laboratory technicians. Some states require a license and some have voluntary certification available. Additionally, some employers require previous laboratory experience. A person interested in this career should know it in detail and also should have multi-tasking ability. Strong written and verbal communication skills as well as organizational abilities are a must. Additionally, they must be able to work with spreadsheets and medical software, operate laboratory equipment, and perform procedures such as tissue preparation and gross examinations.
What is a Pathology Lab Technician?
Pathology laboratory technicians, also known as pathologist laboratory assistants, aid pathologists and other laboratory scientists in specimen preparation, storage, and examination.
They may work in hospitals, medical laboratories, physician offices, or universities. Protective gear should be worn when working with potentially infectious materials. Some positions require the technician to work weekend, evening, or even overnight hours.
Pathology Lab Technician Careers
- Degree Level- Associate Degree
- Degree Area- Laboratory Science
- Licensure/Certification- Varies by state; Voluntary certification available.
- Experience - Some employers require previous laboratory experience.
- Key Skills- Ability to speak at length and multi-task; Strong written and verbal communication and organizational skills, ability to work with spreadsheets and medical software, operate laboratory equipment, and perform procedures such as tissue preparation and gross examinations.
- Salary- 37,610 approx. (Average for Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians)
Pathology Lab Technician Requirements
Get the Necessary Education.
High school students interested in working as pathology lab technicians should take courses in biology, math, and chemistry.
An associate's degree in a laboratory science discipline is required by many employers.
Other associate degree programs that include science courses and clinical laboratory science courses are also acceptable.
Experience in Pathology Lab Technician
Some employers prefer candidates who have a background in laboratory work or assisting pathologists.
While attending school, students may consider working part-time in the laboratory. Hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and physician offices are common places of employment for laboratory technicians.
Additionally, some states require pathology laboratory personnel to be state licensed. Education and experience requirements vary by state.
Individuals should contact their Board of Health for information on Pathology Laboratory Technician Licensing.
Seek career advancement.
A bachelor's or master's degree is usually not required for a pathology laboratory technician position while earning a bachelor's degree and completing an accredited pathologists' assistant program can help students meet certification requirements. is
Individuals must also pass a Board of Certification (BOC) exam in order to obtain the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) certification.
Pathology laboratory technicians who earn certification are generally required to complete continuing education requirements.
Pathology lab technicians generally need at least an associate's degree in laboratory science and must meet licensing requirements in their state.
Pathology Lab Technician Salary
The salary of a Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technician ranges from 15,000 to 30,000. At the same time, it is through your quality that it continues to grow.
