Medical Laboratory Technician Duties & Responsibilities

The role and function of a Medical Laboratory Technician includes the following duties and responsibilities:

  • Collect and analyse body fluids or tissues using microscope or automatic analyser to detect abnormalities or diseases
  • Conduct blood tests and perform blood counts
  • Examine cells and cultures to find abnormalities.
  • Set up, maintain, calibrate, clean, and test sterility of medical laboratory equipment
  • Analyse results of tests
  • Record test data
  • Work with a pathologist when abnormal cells are found
  • Prepare standard solutions or reagents to be combined with samples
  • Construct, maintain and operate standard laboratory equipment, for example centrifuges, titrators, pipetting machines and pH meters
  • Keep equipment in a clean and serviceable condition and ensure the safe removal of waste
  • Ensure the laboratory is well-stocked and resourced and that everything is clearly and correctly labelled
  • Keep up to date with technical developments, especially those which can save time and improve reliability
  • Conduct searches on identified topics relevant to the research
  • Follow and ensure strict safety procedures and safety checks.

Note that this is not an exhaustive list of Medical Laboratory Technician duties and responsibilities. Job functions for specific Medical Laboratory Technician roles may vary, depending on the industry and type of employer.