Medical Technician Career Guide

The development of medical devices ? such as ultrasounds, MRI scanners, and dialysis machines ? have led to many of today?s advances in medical care. Medical technicians operate these advanced machines, performing the work that allows doctors to provide accurate diagnoses. If you?re interested in helping others and technology, a career as a medical technician might be right for you.

Medical technicians work in doctors? offices, labs, and hospitals. Some technicians specialize in particular devices, but many technicians will operate multiple machines over the course of a typical day. Technicians who enjoy working away from the public may prefer working in labs analyzing specimen samples. Other technicians interact directly with the public while working on therapeutic devices, such as dialysis machines. In addition to working with machines, technicians also ensure that patient records are accurate and up to date.

Most medical technicians need at least an associate?s degree, although some specialties may require a bachelor?s degree. Job prospects are fairly strong for medical technicians; as medicine has become more dependent on technology, there is a strong demand for employees who can operate the new devices. Beginning salaries are average, with advancement and higher salaries following your education and experience.

To learn about how to become a medical technician, the different career paths you might take, or the daily life of a medical technician, read the career profiles below. We?ve interviewed qualified medical technicians one-on-one to give you the inside scoop.