Medical laboratory technician
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours but may work night shifts, weekends and part time
- Usually work in community, hospital, commercial or veterinary diagnostic laboratories and may travel locally
- Need to be organised, accurate and methodical
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Test biological samples
- Use laboratory equipment and machinery
- Collect and organise data
- Analyse test results
- Prepare samples for testing
- Prepare medical supplies and equipment
- Collect biological samples from patients
- Follow health and safety rules
Outlook
Medical laboratory technician roles are being influenced by advances in laboratory automation, digital systems and increasingly sophisticated testing methods. New Zealand laboratories continue to support growing healthcare needs, while global developments in molecular testing and diagnostic technology are changing how samples are processed and analysed. These changes are creating opportunities to work with modern laboratory systems and support high-quality testing services.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Care and accuracy when handling samples
- Strong organisational skills
- Ability to follow detailed procedures
- Confidence using laboratory equipment and technology
- Teamwork and clear communication
- Reliability and professionalism
Professional registration
Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand
04 801 6250
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.