Medical Lab Technician - Career Investigator for Northwest Michigan

Combine science, math, and critical thinking skills to complete daily tasks. Perform routine medical laboratory tests for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. May work under the supervision of a medical technologist. Analyze test results and communicate findings. As shown by the COVID pandemic, this is a very important job, and if you want to help in a critical area of healthcare, you might consider this career.

A Typical Day

Conduct chemical analyses of body fluids, such as blood or urine, using microscope or automated analyzer to detect abnormalities or diseases and enter findings into computer.
Analyze the results of tests or experiments to ensure conformity to specifications, using special mechanical or electrical devices.
Set up, maintain, calibrate, clean, and test sterility of medical laboratory equipment.
Prepare standard volumetric solutions or reagents to be combined with samples, following standardized formulas or experimental procedures.
May be responsible for collecting blood from patients.
Work independently and coordinate with other healthcare professionals for best patient care.

Recommended Credentials

Associate Degree or 60 credit hours

Education & Training

Regional employers often hire graduates of these programs.

Northwest Lower Michigan

Northwestern Michigan College with credit transfer to Ferris State University

Transfer Guide

Elsewhere in Michigan

Ferris State University - Medical Laboratory Technology

Northern Michigan University - Clinical Laboratory Technology

Explore This Career

Try it before you buy it!

Northwest Education Services (formerly TBAISD) Career Tech Center - Allied Health

HS Science and College Prep classes

The Local Advantage Learning Pathway

Pathway 1

Northwest Education Services (formerly TBAISD) Allied Health

Tour the Munson Laboratory as part of the program.

Pathway 2

To save on college expenses, start coursework at NMC and then transfer to Ferris State University to complete the degree.

Pathway 3

Munson Healthcare Otsego Memorial Hospital offers internships to Northern Michigan University students. Some local companies offer significant sign-on bonuses when hired!