As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Medical Lab Technician I in the United States is $47,569 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.
However, a Medical Lab Technician I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Medical Lab Technician I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Medical Lab Technician I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Phlebotomist | 0-0 years | $41,344 |
| Hospital Lab Clerk | 0-1 years | $42,513 |
| Medical Lab Technician I | 1-3 years | $47,569 |
| Medical Lab Technician II | 3-5 years | $55,431 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Medical Lab Technician Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 3.62% |
| Hematology | 3.33% |
| Quality Assurance | 1.92% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Collaboration
|
$49,947 |
5%
|
|
Coordination
|
$49,472 |
4%
|
|
Chemistry
|
$48,996 |
3%
|
|
Clinical Laboratory Science
|
$48,996 |
3%
|
|
Consulting
|
$48,996 |
3%
|
|
Hematology
|
$48,520 |
2%
|
Understanding how a Medical Lab Technician I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026For a Medical Lab Technician I, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Medical Lab Technician II role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $55,431 - a projected growth of 17% over your current level.
Salaries for a Medical Lab Technician I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $51,385 in 2023 to around $51,131 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Medical Lab Technician I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $51,385 |
| 2024 | $51,518 |
| 2025 | $51,131 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Medical Lab Technician I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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A Medical Lab Technician I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Medical Lab Technician I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Medical Lab Technician I is $59,999.
The highest pay for Medical Lab Technician I is $58,831.
The lowest pay for Medical Lab Technician I is $38,009.
Performs a variety of routine and specialized diagnostic medical lab tests as requested by healthcare staff according to established protocols and procedures. Prepares specimens for microscopic examination or testing procedures. Operates automated laboratory instrumentation and equipment. Performs quality control and assurance procedures. Records lab results in specified system. Follows all required privacy, safety, and biohazard procedures and standards. Requires an associate degree in laboratory technology, science or equivalent. Requires valid certification or eligibility for certification exam as Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) from ASCP or AMT. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
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