How Much Does a Medical Laboratory Scientist Make: Understanding the Salary Range
Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLSs) play a critical role in the healthcare industry by providing vital diagnostic information to assist in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. If you are interested in becoming an MLS, you may be wondering how much you can expect to earn in this field. This article will provide you with an overview of the salary range for MLSs and the factors that can influence your earnings.
Salary Range for MLSs
The salary range for MLSs can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including education, experience, location, and specialty. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical and clinical laboratory technologists was $53,120 in May 2020. The lowest 10% of workers in this field earned less than $36,360, while the highest 10% earned more than $76,850.
Factors that Influence Your Earnings
Education
MLSs with a bachelor's degree can expect to earn around the median annual salary. However, those with a master's degree or higher may earn higher salaries, especially in leadership or management roles. According to Payscale, the average salary for a medical laboratory manager with a master's degree is around $87,000 per year, although this can vary depending on the specific job and employer.
Earning a Ph.D. in a related field can also lead to higher salaries, particularly in research or academic settings. According to payscale.com, the average salary for someone with a Ph.D. in medical laboratory science is around $98,000 per year.
Experience
MLSs with more experience can earn a higher salary than those with less experience. Additionally, MLSs who specialize in a particular area of laboratory science, such as hematology or immunology, may also earn a higher salary.
According to PayScale, the average salary for MLSs with less than 1 year of experience is $51,000, while the average salary for MLSs with 1-4 years of experience is $55,000. The average salary for MLSs with 5-9 years of experience is $58,000, while the average salary for MLSs with 10-19 years of experience is $62,000. Finally, the average salary for MLSs with 20 years or more of experience is $66,000.
Location
The cost of living and the demand for MLSs can vary greatly from one location to another. MLSs who work in large cities or metropolitan areas may earn a higher salary than those who work in rural areas.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the states with the highest average annual wages for medical and clinical laboratory technologists in May 2020 were:
- California - $76,220
- Massachusetts - $73,000
- Alaska - $71,560
- New Jersey - $68,900
- Connecticut - $68,430
On the other hand, the states with the lowest average annual wages for medical and clinical laboratory technologists in May 2020 were:
- South Dakota - $45,850
- Arkansas - $46,510
- West Virginia - $46,680
- Mississippi - $47,250
- Montana - $47,710
Specialty
MLSs who specialize in a particular area of laboratory science, such as hematology or clinical chemistry, may earn a higher salary than those who work in a general laboratory setting.
Industry
The average salary for MLSs can also vary depending on the industry in which they work. According to the BLS, the industries with the highest average annual wages for medical and clinical laboratory technologists in May 2020 were:
- Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing - $73,620
- Scientific Research and Development Services - $72,690
- Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation) - $71,220
- Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools - $69,520
- General Medical and Surgical Hospitals - $65,490
In conclusion, the salary range for MLSs can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including education, experience, location, and industry. The highest average salaries are in California, Massachusetts, and Alaska. Additionally, MLSs with advanced degrees, more experience, and specializations in particular areas of laboratory science may earn a higher salary.