Navy NEC · Medical
L31A Medical Laboratory Technician
A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.
Overview
Medical Laboratory Technicians perform and supervise moderate and high complexity testing using manual and automated laboratory methods across disciplines such as bacteriology, hematology, chemistry, toxicology, and urinalysis. They independently operate, maintain, and validate laboratory equipment and results involved in patient care.
Minimum clearance: Secret
Core Skills
- clinical laboratory testing
- microbiology and mycology
- immunohematology and blood banking
- hematology and coagulation
- clinical chemistry and toxicology
- urinalysis and parasitology
- laboratory equipment validation
- quality control and assurance
- laboratory result documentation
Civilian Software & Tools
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
- MEDITECH software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft Word
- Commercial plate reader software
Civilian Career Paths
- Medical Laboratory
- Clinical Technician
- Public Health
Training & Development
Getting Started
- ASCP Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)
- AMT Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)
Career Growth
- ASCP Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
- ASCP Specialist in Blood Banking (SBB)
- Specialist in Microbiology (SM/ASCP)
- Specialist in Chemistry - SC(ASCP)
Also Common
- AMT Medical Technologist (MT)
- AAB Medical Technologist (MT)
What the Work Involves
- Analyze samples of biological material for chemical content or reaction.
- Analyze laboratory findings to check the accuracy of the results.
- Conduct chemical analysis of body fluids, including blood, urine, or spinal fluid, to determine presence of normal or abnormal components.
- Enter data from analysis of medical tests or clinical results into computer for storage.
- Set up, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment.
Related Occupations
- Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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