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Immunology Technician |
Career OverviewDiagnostic testing is a vital component of modern medicine. The role of an immunology technician is to perform a range of tests relating to the immune system. In particular, they test blood and serum samples for the presence of antibodies, proteins, and other elements such as viruses and bacteria. They have a similar role to medical technicians, although immunology technicians have a more specialist role.
Immunology technicians work laboratories, undertaking the variety of tests ordered by physicians relating to the human immune system. They are more commonly known as clinical laboratory technicians. Whether they work in offices or in hospitals, physicians order tests to determine a patient’s state of health, to assist in both the diagnostic and treatment phases of care.
Most immunology technicians work in hospital laboratories, but employment opportunities exist in private laboratories, physicians’ offices, HMOs, clinics, and commercial organizations such as pharmaceutical companies.
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Career RequirementsA high school diploma or its equivalent is required to become an immunology technician as these professionals must complete four-year Most immunology technicians have bachelor degrees in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or pathology.
The Clinical Laboratory Improvements Act requires those who perform highly complex tests to have at least an associate degree and there are now two nationally recognized accrediting agencies for training programs in medical laboratory science. The agencies are the Accrediting Bureau of Health and Education Schools (AHBES) and the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory sciences (NAACLS).
Certification is available to immunology technicians through the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel, by the ABHES and the NAACLS. More information about the field of clinical laboratory testing is available through the following organization:
The American Society of Cytopathology
400 W. Ninth St., Ste. 201,
Wilmington, DE 19801
www.cytopathology.org
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Job OutlookThe outlook for immunology technicians is generally good, but subject to the changing health care system. As most immunology technicians work in hospital laboratories, the cutbacks in hospital treatment time may shift the focus of testing to private laboratories or outpatient facilities.
A career as an immunology technician is particularly appropriate for individuals with ability and interest in biology and chemistry, with a definite ability to work under pressure, and with a high level of organization and maturity.
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Career TrackOpportunities for advancement as an immunology technician exist in various forms. Advancement in terms of education and position can amount to a supervisor role.
The vast majority of immunology technicians work in hospital or private laboratories but more are finding opportunities at pharmaceutical companies with commercial interests, at physicians’ offices, and even with federal and local health agencies looking to modify and expand their medical care programs.
In all settings, managerial positions and educator positions may also be available to those with sufficient experience and relevant interest.
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CompensationAlthough compensation varies, most immunology technicians receive standard benefits and salaries ranging between $30,000 to $42,000 per year per year depending upon experience and the precise nature of the job. Additional benefits may include paid vacations, medical and dental insurance, and disability insurance.
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