Medical Technologist Jobs: Overview
Medical technologists are responsible for performing a variety of laboratory and clinical tests that inform doctors’ diagnostic and treatment decisions. As a medical technologist, you’ll take blood samples, perform pregnancy tests, monitor antibiotic drug therapy, and much more. If you’re looking to take on this important role in a healthcare facility, consider searching for medical technologist jobs on Monster.
To become a medical technologist, you’ll need to be detail oriented, with strong analytical skills and the ability to operate complex equipment.
The typical day-to-day duties of a medical technologist include:
- taking samples of blood and other bodily fluids from patients.
- conducting chemical analyses of blood and bodily fluids.
- preparing blood, plasma, and platelets for transfusions.
- ensuring that laboratory equipment works efficiently.
- maintaining laboratory inventory.
- preparing reports of technical findings.
- ensuring a clean and safe work environment.
Medical technologists usually work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities under the supervision of pathologists. The work schedule is usually 40 hours per week with some occasional nights and early mornings.
If you’re interested in healthcare technology jobs, then check out these similar positions:
Medical Technologist Education and Skills
To become a medical technologist, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, physical science, medical technology, or a related field. Some states require medical technologists to obtain a license. Others require both a license and certification. You can apply for certification from American Medical Technologists by providing documentation of your college degree and passing an exam.
Besides your technical know-how, you’ll also need these soft skills and qualities for a medical technologist job:
- Keen attention to detail.
- Excellent analytical thinking skills.
- Experience operating complex medical equipment.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
Update Your Medical Technologist Resume
Job recruiters spend about six seconds looking at each resume they receive. If you want employers to read on and learn more about you, your resume will need to stand out. Want to know what employers look for in a resume? Start with a brief and captivating career summary that breaks down your skills and accomplishments. Then, be sure to quantify your achievements with numbers and metrics.
Before you apply, you may be asking yourself: Should I send a cover letter? Some employers will ask for a cover letter when you apply, but many will not. However, it’s always best practice to send a cover letter because it can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers. Your cover letter should discuss your professional background and passion and contain a compelling opening and closing paragraph.
Interviewing for Medical Technologist Jobs
So, your resume and cover letter grabbed the attention of an employer. That’s great news. Next comes the job interview. This gives you the opportunity to describe yourself to a hiring manager, highlight your strengths, and discuss your accomplishments. Employers don’t just want a laundry list of what you’ve accomplished at prior jobs; they’re interested in real examples of your success stories. Be sure to discuss problems you’ve solved and projects you’re proud of.
How Much Do Medical Technologist Jobs Pay?
Medical technologists earn a median salary of $56,826 per year, according to Monster’s salary data. But your pay could range from $41,476 to $71,555. It all depends on how experienced you are and where you’re located. Monster’s Salary Tool can give you an estimate of your salary and allow you to compare it with averages in other U.S. cities and for similar positions. Just enter your job title and location into the search bar to see for yourself.
Want to Learn More About a Company You’re Interested In?
If you’re looking for an employer that’s the right fit, we strongly suggest doing your own research. Start by looking up employers in the healthcare industry on Monster’s company profiles. This tool can give you a glimpse of an employer’s workplace culture, as well as these basic details:
- company size.
- locations and headquarters.
- photos and videos of the workplace.
- job openings.
Sign Up Today to Find Medical Technologist Jobs
Do you have the skills and qualifications employers in the healthcare field are looking for? You can find tons of opportunities for medical technologists at Monster. Just set up your profile and start clicking on the ones that interest you. To make your search as easy as possible, we also offer free job notifications, with the latest medical tech jobs sent right to your inbox.