Lab

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for careers working in a lab are excellent. In a laboratory, lab assistants work with clinical lab scientists in analyzing the results of medical testing performed on patients. An individual considering a career in a laboratory should flourish in a stressful environment in which deadlines are short and there is no room for error. In addition to lab scientists and assistants, a lab may employ clerical staff, a lab manager, and a courier. Educational requirements for each position vary, but an Associate’s Degree is usually required to become a lab assistant, and most clinical lab scientists hold a Bachelor’s Degree. Licensing requirements vary by state as well, with some states like California requiring all personnel in a laboratory to be licensed with the state. Lab assistants can expect to earn $20,000 to $40,000 per year and clinical lab scientists earn $40,000 to $60,000 per year based on experience and geographical location.