Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians
🤍 Save CareerClinical laboratory technologists and technicians play a vital role in the US economy, with 351K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $61,890, with projected growth of 2% through 2034 (Slower than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
➡️ Stable — 2% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
Some tasks may be automated, but human skills remain essential.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
This occupation is a hybrid of physical laboratory work and digital data analysis. While AI and computer vision are rapidly automating the interpretation of slides and test results (high exposure), the physical requirements of preparing specimens, maintaining complex hardware, and interacting with patients provide a significant barrier to full automation.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 2% projected growth and a median salary of $61,890, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in clinical laboratory technologists and technicians who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is $61,890 per year. Entry-level positions start around $37,134, while experienced professionals can earn up to $99,024 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians?▼
Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is bachelor's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians?▼
Most Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians positions require bachelor's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians do on a daily basis?▼
As a clinical laboratory technologists and technician, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians a good career in 2026?▼
With 2% projected growth and a median salary of $61,890, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 2%, which is declining. The median salary of $61,890 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Clinical laboratory technologists and technicianss?▼
Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians has an AI automation risk score of 50/100 (Moderate). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians?▼
Anyone interested in clinical laboratory technologists and technicians who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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