Medical Technologists

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of medical and clinical laboratory technologists is expected to grow by 11 percent, much faster than the average for all careers, through 2028. Although hospitals will continue to be the major employer of medical technologists, nonhospital medical and diagnostic laboratories, offices of physicians, and blood and organ banks will offer the best employment opportunities. The number of medical technologist positions to be filled are expected to exceed the number of qualified applicants, increasing employment opportunities. More people have access to affordable health care due to federal health legislation, so the demand for the services of laboratory personnel is expected to increase. Also, the development of new types of tests and the population growth, in particular the increase in the aging population, will mean more job opportunities for medical technologists.

Those with solid educational and work backgrounds, certification, and flexibility to relocate, if needed, will have the best job prospects.