Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description: Qualifications and Responsibilities

How to Write a Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description

Every lab depends on accurate, timely results—and that starts with having the right people in place. If you’re hiring for a medical lab role, your job post should do more than list tasks and credentials. A clear, well-written Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description can help you find candidates who not only meet certification requirements, but also understand the pace, precision, and accountability that lab work demands.

Whether you're hiring for a hospital, private practice, or diagnostics center, the right description helps you connect with professionals who are ready to support patient care through critical behind-the-scenes work.

What is a Medical Laboratory Technologist / What does a Medical Laboratory Technologist do?

A Medical Laboratory Technologist runs the tests that help diagnose and monitor health conditions. They work with blood, urine, tissue, and other samples—using equipment and software to detect issues, confirm treatment plans, and make sure doctors have the data they need. Technologists may work in areas like microbiology, hematology, or molecular diagnostics, depending on the lab. Their work is essential in turning lab samples into answers that guide patient care.

The Importance of a Good Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description

A comprehensive Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description can significantly improve your recruitment outcomes. Here's how:

• Attracts candidates with the appropriate licensure, certifications, and specialization
  
• Clarifies shift requirements, lab responsibilities, and safety protocols
  
• Reduces time-to-hire by filtering unqualified applicants
  
• Ensures compliance with accreditation standards (e.g., CLIA, CAP, or JC)
  

Given the rising demand for diagnostic services, a clear job description is a competitive advantage in recruiting lab professionals.

Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description Template

Overview of the Role and the Team

As a Medical Laboratory Technologist, you will play a key role in processing laboratory specimens, conducting diagnostic tests, and reporting critical results to healthcare providers. You’ll join a collaborative lab team focused on delivering timely, accurate results in a high-compliance environment that supports patient care and medical decision-making.

Education & Training

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field; valid certification (e.g., ASCP, AMT)
  
• Preferred: State licensure where applicable; additional certifications in specialty areas (e.g., microbiology, cytotechnology, molecular diagnostics)
  

Responsibilities and Duties

• Prepare and analyze biological specimens such as blood, tissue, and urine
  
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring quality control
  
• Record and interpret test results in compliance with lab protocols
  
• Communicate critical values and abnormal results to healthcare providers
  
• Maintain accurate documentation and comply with safety and infection control standards
  

Skill Requirements

Technical Skills

• Comfortable using lab equipment like centrifuges, analyzers, and PCR machines
  
• Familiar with laboratory information systems (LIS)
  
• Knowledgeable in common testing procedures across multiple lab areas
  

Soft Skills

• Strong focus on accuracy and consistency
  
• Good communicator—especially when sharing test findings
  
• Able to manage time and multiple tasks in a busy setting
  

Nice-to-Haves

• Experience in high-throughput or automated lab environments
  
• Familiarity with inspections or accreditation prep
  
• Mentoring experience or interest in training junior staff
  

Medical Laboratory Technologist Salary & Benefits

Most Medical Laboratory Technologists in the U.S. earn between $60,000 and $80,000 per year. Those in specialty roles, evening shifts, or high-demand areas can earn more. Benefits often include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  
• Retirement plans with employer contributions
  
• Paid time off, sick leave, and holidays
  
• Certification and continuing education support
  
• Uniform and equipment allowances
  

Tailoring Your Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description

Tailoring the Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description helps attract the right fit for your specific lab environment. Sub-types include:

• Clinical Laboratory Technologist – Generalist across all lab areas
  
• Microbiology Technologist – Focuses on identifying infectious organisms
  
• Histotechnologist – Prepares and analyzes tissue samples for pathology
  
• Blood Bank Technologist – Specializes in transfusion medicine and blood typing
  
• Molecular Technologist – Works with genetic and molecular assays
  

Seniority levels to consider:

• Entry-Level Technologist – Recently certified, working under supervision
  
• Senior Technologist – Independently manages lab sections or shifts
  
• Lead Technologist / Lab Supervisor – Oversees team, QA programs, and equipment maintenance
  

Using Litespace for Your Resume Screening

With Litespace’s AI Resume Screening Agent, you can build a custom screener that matches your Medical Laboratory Technologist Job Description—from certifications and specialties to lab system experience and shift preferences. Get transparent, data-backed rankings of qualified candidates so you can stop sorting through mismatched resumes and start focusing on top talent.

Litespace helps you hire faster, stay compliant, and reduce bias—without giving up control over your screening process.