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A Medical Laboratory Technician conducts a range of tests on behalf of medical professionals. You might test bodily fluids or tissues to diagnose medical issues or check vital systems are functioning effectively. Medical Laboratory Technicians might operate specialist equipment during testing procedures. You might work in a hospital laboratory or at a separate testing facility.
Medical Laboratory Technicians should have strong attention to detail and an ability to focus for long periods of time. You’ll need to follow correct procedures and maintain patient confidentiality. Medical Laboratory Technicians must be organised and be able to manage their time well.
There are 7 courses available for people who want to become a Medical Laboratory Technician. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
Get the skills you need to work in a pathology lab with the Certificate III in Pathology Assistance (HLT37415). This nationally recognised training qualification will teach you how to receive, prepare and dispatch pathology specimens as well as prepare culture media and perform basic tests. Graduate job-ready for laboratory and field work. Enquire now the list of study units and your eligibility for subsidies and government funding..
Average duration: 6 months.
The Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine readies students for careers in specialised medical or pathology laboratories. Initially, it builds foundational understanding in chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. Subsequently, students acquire knowledge and diverse practical laboratory skills in areas such as clinical chemistry, haematology, blood transfusion science, microbiology, histopathology, human molecular biology, and immunology, equipping them with the expertise necessary for professional laboratory practice. .
Average duration: 4 years.
The Bachelor of Medical Research provides students with an in-depth understanding of medical research principles and methodologies. This degree covers key areas such as biomedical science, clinical trials, and data analysis. Ideal for students aspiring to a career in medical research, it equips them with the skills to conduct rigorous scientific investigations, develop hypotheses, and analyse results. The course prepares graduates for roles in research institutions, laboratories, or further study in medical and health-related fields. .
Average duration: 3 years.
The Bachelor of Medical Studies lays the foundation for a successful career in health care, offering essential knowledge and skills. Medicine is an intellectually rewarding field, demanding critical problem-solving, teamwork, and integrity. This course prepares students to be deeply committed to wellbeing, focusing on protecting and promoting individual and community health. It is ideal for those passionate about alleviating pain and suffering, and caring for vulnerable people, shaping them into dedicated medical practitioners. .
The Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) adds a research-focused year to the standard medical science curriculum, blending health science studies with technical, professional, and communication subjects delivered by expert researchers and practitioners. Open to high-achieving students, this esteemed qualification involves a year-long original research project in a professional medical science setting. It allows students to deepen their specialist knowledge and develop advanced scientific research skills, which are greatly valued in the employment sector..
Average duration: 12 months.
In Australia, a full time Medical Laboratory Technician generally earns $1,150 per week ($59,800 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Employment numbers in this industry have remained stable in recent years. There are currently 6,200 people working as a Medical Laboratory Technician in Australia and the same number existed five years ago. Medical Laboratory Technicians usually work in larger towns and cities where medical laboratories are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re interested in a career as a Medical Laboratory Technician, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Pathology Assistance. This course will show you how to perform basic tests and deal with pathology specimens.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within medical technician, medicine and pathology. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Medical Technician
Laboratory Attendant
$960 weekly pay
Laboratory Technician
Biomedical Technician
$1,250 weekly pay
Medical Laboratory Technician
$1,150 weekly pay
Pathology Assistant
Pathology Collector
$1,050 weekly pay
Phlebotomist
Laboratory Supervisor
$1,800 weekly pay
Senior Technical Officer
Medicine
Laboratory Assistant
Clinical Laboratory Technician
Geneticist
Laboratory Analyst
Laboratory Scientist
$1,500 weekly pay
Medical Advisor
Medical Researcher
Medical Science Liaison
Career Medical Officer (CMO)
$4,327 weekly pay
Clinical Geneticist
$3,315 weekly pay
Epidemiologist
General Practitioner
$3,000 weekly pay
Immunologist
Laboratory Manager
Medical Laboratory Scientist
Medical Practitioner
$2,165 weekly pay
Medical Scientist
Molecular Geneticist
Neurologist
Surgeon
$3,500 weekly pay
Pathology
Clinical Pathologist
Clinical Research Associate
$1,776 weekly pay
Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical Researcher
Cytologist
Histotechnologist
$1,275 weekly pay
Medical Technologist
$1,722 weekly pay
Pathologist
Clinical Scientist
Hospital Scientist
Learn more about Medical Laboratory Technician courses in your area.