What is a Specimen Technician Job?
If you have ever had a blood test or a urinalysis, then you have interacted with a specimen technician. They are the unsung heroes of the healthcare industry who handle and process laboratory specimens. In simple terms, they collect samples and perform tests to help diagnose illnesses or diseases.
What Usually Do in This Position?
A specimen technician's primary responsibility is to collect, process, and prepare laboratory specimens like blood, urine, and tissue samples. They work under the supervision of a laboratory manager and follow strict protocols and procedures to ensure accuracy and consistency in their work. They must be able to operate sophisticated laboratory equipment, understand the science behind the tests they are performing, and be able to interpret the results accurately. Additionally, they must maintain records of their activities and results and communicate their findings to the laboratory manager and other healthcare professionals.
Top 5 Skills for This Position
Here are the top five skills required for a specimen technician job:
- Attention to Detail: The job requires a high level of precision, and even a small error can have significant consequences.
- Communication: Specimen technicians must be able to communicate effectively with laboratory managers and healthcare professionals about their findings and results.
- Technical Skills: They must be proficient in the use of laboratory equipment and be able to understand scientific concepts.
- Organization: The job requires excellent organization skills to maintain accurate records and ensure that samples are processed correctly.
- Patience: The job can be repetitive, and it requires a lot of patience, especially during the processing of large volumes of samples.
How to Become a Specimen Technician?
To become a specimen technician, you will typically need an associate degree or a certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree in a related field. You will also need to complete a clinical practicum to gain hands-on experience in a laboratory setting. Once you have completed your education and training, you can apply for entry-level positions in a laboratory or healthcare facility.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, which includes specimen technicians, was $53,120 as of May 2020. The highest paying industries for this occupation were the federal government and scientific research and development services, with an average annual salary of $70,160 and $64,940, respectively.
Roles and Types
Specimen technicians can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, medical clinics, private laboratories, and research facilities. Some of the roles they might perform include phlebotomy, histology, and cytology. Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood, while histotechnologists prepare tissue samples for examination, and cytotechnologists analyze cells for signs of disease.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states with the highest employment levels for medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, which includes specimen technicians, are California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania. However, the location with the highest concentration of jobs in this field is Rhode Island, followed by Vermont, Maine, Montana, and Delaware.
What Are the Typical Tools?
Specimen technicians use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their job duties, including microscopes, centrifuges, pipettes, and computer software programs for data entry and analysis. They also use personal protective equipment like gloves, lab coats, and safety glasses to protect themselves from exposure to infectious materials.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, specimen technicians are an essential part of the healthcare industry, responsible for collecting and processing laboratory specimens that help diagnose and treat illnesses and diseases. They require a combination of technical knowledge, communication skills, and attention to detail to succeed in their role. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, you will need to complete an education program and gain hands-on experience in a laboratory setting.