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Medical Laboratory Technicians

Health Science

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo

Work Environment

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

  • Military Status

    Enlisted

  • Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.

    $76,184

    Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.

    $29,299 - $259,959

Overview

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. They conduct these laboratory tests to aid in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease and other medical disorders.

Military Training

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

Helpful Attributes

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

Related Civilian Careers

  • Microbiologists
  • Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
  • Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
  • Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists