How to Become a Laboratory Assistant

Clinical lab assistants analyze blood and specimens in medical labs.

Laboratory assistants work in various types of labs, gathering and processing data or physical materials. The two main types are clinical or diagnostic laboratory assistants and research laboratory assistants. Clinical lab assistants analyze medical specimens in hospitals or health testing sites. Research laboratory assistants work in research labs associated with universities, government and industry. To become a lab assistant, you must have a high school diploma or GED and some amount of postsecondary education.

Instructions

Clinical Lab Assistant

1. Complete an associate degree in Medical Laboratory Science or a similar field. The course of study will include microbiology, human physiology and parasitology. Consider going for a bachelor's degree in a similar field. Assistants with bachelor's degrees can earn higher pay and may be given more work responsibility.

2. Search for and complete an internship while you are doing your coursework. Internships may not pay well, but the work experience can bolster your chances for a getting a job and earning a higher salary.

3. Get licensed and certified. Licensing requirements vary from state to state. Being certified by a professional organization, such as the American Medical Technologists, will make you more attractive to employers and help you build a professional network.

Research Lab Assistant

1. Enroll in an associate degree or bachelor's degree program. Most employers require at least a two-year degree from a community college or certificate from a two-year program at a technical or vocational school. Specialty laboratories are likely to require a bachelor's degree. Depending on your area of concentration, coursework will include biology, chemistry, life sciences or physics.

2. Seek out research opportunities while you're in school. Many schools offer opportunities for students to practice their research skills as assistants to professors or as unpaid interns. Employers prefer to hire assistants that have some laboratory experience.

3. Consider an advanced degree. To move beyond an entry-level position, you may need a master's degree in your field. Research the requirements listed for job openings in your chosen specialty.

References

• United States Department of Labor Bureau or Labor Statistics: Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians
• Education-Portal.com: Lab Assistant Education Requirements and Career Info
• American Medical Technologists
• California Employment Development Department: Laboratory Assistants and Technicians