Salary Range for a Lab Technician
Clinical laboratory technicians test and analyze body fluids and cells in an effort to further scientists' and physicians' understanding of diseases. These technicians are responsible for preparing specimens and may perform manual tests under the instruction of medical technologists. The salary range for a lab technician is based on his employer and location.
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Training and Education
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Entry-level lab technicians typically possess an associate degree or certification in the field from a community or junior college, vocational school or hospital. Most employers look to hire lab technicians with strong problem-solving skills and manual dexterity. Because advancements in technology mean many labs use computers and software to prepare and carry out tests and study results, technicians must also possess excellent computer skills.
Salary Range
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In the United States, laboratory technicians earn an average salary of $37,860 annually. The median salary is $36,030. On the salary scale, those techs in the 10th percentile earn $23,850, those in the 25th percentile earn $28,770, those in the 75th percentile earn $45,420, and those in the 90th percentile earn $55,210.
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Industry
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Lab techs can be employed in labs in a variety of types of medical facilities. Most work in general medical and surgical hospitals for an average salary of $38,820. Those in medical and diagnostic laboratories earn less at $35,590, while those working in the offices of physicians earn $37,060. Lab technicians working at junior colleges earn the highest wages at an average annual salary of $48,040.
State
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Requirements for training and credentials of lab technicians vary from state to state, as does the salary range. Rhode Island offers lab techs the highest average salary at $55,490, followed by Maryland at $45,870 and Connecticut at $45,380. The metropolitan area of Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, offers the highest wages in the country for lab technicians at $62,410, followed by Norwich-New London, Connecticut-Rhode Island, at $53,340 and Salinas, California, at $52,050.
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References
- Photo Credit lab tools image by PHOTOFLY from Fotolia.com
