Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

O’NET publishes details below this occupation’s level. Showing Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists — one of 2 occupations here: Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists, Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Analyze samples of biological material for chemical content or reaction.96
Analyze laboratory findings to check the accuracy of the results.96
Conduct chemical analysis of body fluids, including blood, urine, or spinal fluid, to determine presence of normal or abnormal components.96
Enter data from analysis of medical tests or clinical results into computer for storage.94
Collect and study blood samples to determine the number of cells, their morphology, or their blood group, blood type, or compatibility for transfusion purposes, using microscopic techniques.94
Set up, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment.94
Operate, calibrate, or maintain equipment used in quantitative or qualitative analysis, such as spectrophotometers, calorimeters, flame photometers, or computer-controlled analyzers.93
Establish or monitor quality assurance programs or activities to ensure the accuracy of laboratory results.93
Supervise, train, or direct lab assistants, medical and clinical laboratory technicians or technologists, or other medical laboratory workers engaged in laboratory testing.91
Select and prepare specimens and media for cell cultures, using aseptic technique and knowledge of medium components and cell requirements.91
Obtain, cut, stain, and mount biological material on slides for microscopic study and diagnosis, following standard laboratory procedures.89
Cultivate, isolate, or assist in identifying microbial organisms or perform various tests on these microorganisms.87

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Provide technical information about test results to physicians, family members, or researchers.84
Develop, standardize, evaluate, or modify procedures, techniques, or tests used in the analysis of specimens or in medical laboratory experiments.82
Harvest cell cultures at optimum time, based on knowledge of cell cycle differences and culture conditions.75
Conduct blood typing and antibody screening.—

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Critical Thinking75
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Science75
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Active Listening72
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Quality Control Analysis69
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Reading Comprehension69
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Operations Monitoring66
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Monitoring63
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Active Learning60
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Complex Problem Solving60
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Operation and Control60
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Time Management60
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Instructing53
Teaching others how to do something.

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Judgment and Decision Making53
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Mathematics53
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Speaking53
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Writing53
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Coordination50
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Equipment Maintenance50
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Social Perceptiveness50
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Troubleshooting50
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Equipment Selection47
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Learning Strategies47
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Management of Personnel Resources47
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Service Orientation47
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Persuasion44
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Systems Analysis44
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Systems Evaluation44
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Negotiation35
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Repairing35
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Management of Material Resources25
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Programming25
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Management of Financial Resources22
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Operations Analysis22
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Technology Design13
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Installation3
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Chemistry81
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Customer and Personal Service80
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Computers and Electronics77
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language75
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Biology72
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Mathematics72
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Administrative71
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Medicine and Dentistry70
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Education and Training69
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Mechanical66
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Administration and Management48
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Production and Processing48
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

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Engineering and Technology45
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Physics44
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Psychology39
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Law and Government38
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Personnel and Human Resources34
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Public Safety and Security34
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Telecommunications33
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Sociology and Anthropology27
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Economics and Accounting23
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Therapy and Counseling23
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Communications and Media20
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Design19
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Transportation19
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Geography16
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Foreign Language13
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Sales and Marketing13
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Philosophy and Theology12
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Building and Construction10
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Fine Arts10
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Food Production8
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
History and Archeology6
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Inductive Reasoning81
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Near Vision81
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Information Ordering78
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Problem Sensitivity78
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Written Comprehension78
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Deductive Reasoning75
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Category Flexibility72
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Oral Expression66
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Arm-Hand Steadiness63
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Control Precision60
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Finger Dexterity60
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.

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Flexibility of Closure60
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Selective Attention60
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Speech Recognition60
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Visual Color Discrimination60
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Manual Dexterity56
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Written Expression56
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Mathematical Reasoning53
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Perceptual Speed53
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Speech Clarity53
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speed of Closure53
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Far Vision50
The ability to see details at a distance.
Number Facility50
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Visualization50
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Memorization47
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Fluency of Ideas44
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Time Sharing41
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Originality38
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Trunk Strength35
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Auditory Attention31
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Depth Perception28
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Hearing Sensitivity28
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Multilimb Coordination28
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Reaction Time28
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Extent Flexibility25
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Gross Body Coordination25
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium25
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Rate Control25
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Stamina25
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength25
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Wrist-Finger Speed25
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Response Orientation22
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Speed of Limb Movement22
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Dynamic Strength19
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Explosive Strength6
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Spatial Orientation3
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards96
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems96
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials94
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Analyzing Data or Information91
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Documenting/Recording Information89
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Processing Information89
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates87
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings87
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge86
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Working with Computers86
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Getting Information85
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Training and Teaching Others81
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events78
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work76
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Controlling Machines and Processes72
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment68
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships67
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information67
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People67
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Assisting and Caring for Others64
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates64
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment64
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Handling and Moving Objects62
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others62
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Scheduling Work and Activities61
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Coaching and Developing Others60
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Developing Objectives and Strategies55
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization53
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others53
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Performing General Physical Activities52
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others51
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Thinking Creatively51
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources48
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others47
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Developing and Building Teams46
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Performing Administrative Activities45
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public44
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Staffing Organizational Units44
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment31
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment30
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Selling or Influencing Others17
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail100
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability88
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Cautiousness82
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Integrity74
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Achievement Orientation68
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Intellectual Curiosity67
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Stress Tolerance56
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Cooperation54
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Perseverance53
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Self-Control46
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Initiative39
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Innovation38
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.

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Adaptability37
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Self-Confidence34
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Sincerity31
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Leadership Orientation30
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Optimism18
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Social Orientation18
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Humility15
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
Empathy14
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity10
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Investigative86
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Realistic80
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional67
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Social30
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Enterprising9
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Artistic2
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Telephone Conversations
- Every day99%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important95%
E-Mail
- Every day91%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Every day93%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day95%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Every day85%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others74%
- Contact with others most of the time12%
- Contact with others about half the time14%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day75%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important65%
- Very important14%
- Important21%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day85%
- Never14%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important62%
- Very important18%
- Important15%
Time Pressure
- Every day63%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%

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Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom47%
- Some freedom41%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually65%
- More than half the time15%
- Less than half the time12%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results51%
- Important results35%
- No results12%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom23%
- Some freedom62%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious61%
- Very serious15%
- Not serious at all15%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important22%
- Very important34%
- Important33%
Physical Proximity
- Very close (near touching)20%
- Moderately close (at arm's length)30%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)44%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important40%
- Very important16%
- Important14%
- Fairly important24%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility25%
- High responsibility27%
- Moderate responsibility29%
- Limited responsibility18%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually31%
- More than half the time23%
- Less than half the time40%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility25%
- High responsibility20%
- Moderate responsibility30%
- Limited responsibility24%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day28%
- Once a week or more but not every day26%
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never16%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day43%
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
- Never24%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated47%
- Moderately automated33%
- Slightly automated20%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day53%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month28%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Every day30%
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Once a month or more but not every week17%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never24%
Spend Time Standing
- More than half the time25%
- About half the time62%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Extremely important23%
- Very important14%
- Important28%
- Fairly important12%
- Not important at all23%
Spend Time Sitting
- More than half the time12%
- About half the time66%
- Less than half the time18%
Conflict Situations
- Every day17%
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never16%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours20%
- 40 hours50%
- Less than 40 hours29%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- More than half the time25%
- About half the time32%
- Less than half the time37%
Written Letters and Memos
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week20%
- Once a year or more but not every month23%
- Never23%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive16%
- Moderately competitive34%
- Slightly competitive29%
- Not at all competitive17%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- More than half the time12%
- Less than half the time71%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Every day31%
- Never58%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never55%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time52%
- Never43%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never67%
Public Speaking
- Never77%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never70%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Never84%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never93%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time12%
- Never83%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)11%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)89%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Never93%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time15%
- Never85%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Never96%
Exposed to High Places
- Never97%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Never96%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Never97%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never99%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never100%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Never100%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Medical software
eClinicalWorks EHR software, Medical procedure coding software, MEDITECH software, Test routing software
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Electronic mail software
Email software
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Data base user interface and query software
Database software, FileMaker Pro
Project management software
Microsoft Project

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Analyze laboratory specimens to detect abnormalities or other problems.
Analyze laboratory findings.
Collect biological specimens from patients.
Maintain medical laboratory equipment.
Clean medical equipment or facilities.
Enter patient or treatment data into computers.
Prepare medical supplies or equipment for use.
Develop healthcare quality and safety procedures.
Operate laboratory equipment to analyze medical samples.
Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.
Supervise technical medical personnel.
Train medical providers.

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Cultivate micro-organisms for study, testing, or medical preparations.
Communicate detailed medical information to patients or family members.
Communicate test or assessment results to medical professionals.
Determine protocols for medical procedures.

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology