Explore Careers

Medical Laboratory Technicians

Explore Careers

Medical Laboratory Technicians

Health Science
Officer Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Navy logo
  • Air Force logo
  • Space Force logo

What do Medical Laboratory Technicians do in the Military?

Medical laboratory technicians perform and/or supervise the application of basic and advanced laboratory procedures such as: collecting, processing and analyzing biological specimens and other substances; performing clinical diagnostic laboratory tests; and monitoring and reporting results.

Where do Medical Laboratory Technicians work?

Medical laboratory technicians work in medical centers, clinics, and hospitals on land or aboard ships.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$71,315

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$26,765 - $356,862

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Medical Laboratory Technicians gain in the Military?

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Medical laboratory technicians in the Military will gain skills through classroom study and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Medical laboratory procedures
  • Study of human parasites and diseases
  • Laboratory administration and record keeping

Military Training for Officers

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree. All officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.

What skills help Medical Laboratory Technicians succeed?

  • Ability to follow detailed procedures precisely
  • Interest in scientific and technical work

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Phlebotomists
  • Histology Technicians
  • Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
  • Histotechnologists
  • Cytotechnologists
  • Cytogenetic Technologists
  • Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
  • Physicians, Pathologists

Interested? Take Your Next Step!