Pre-Employment Tests For Laboratory Technicians
Top Skills and Abilities:
- Reading Comprehension
- Problem Sensitivity
- Critical Thinking
- Information Ordering
- Science
Top 3 Tasks:
- Conduct chemical analyses of body fluids, such as blood or urine, using microscope or automatic analyzer to detect abnormalities or diseases and enter findings into computer
- Analyze the results of tests or experiments to ensure conformity to specifications, using special mechanical or electrical devices
- Set up, maintain, calibrate, clean, and test sterility of medical laboratory equipment
Overview
Laboratory technicians, or lab techs, perform tests on and analyze body fluids, tissues, chemical compounds, and other substances. They are responsible for examining samples and results and reporting any abnormalities they may observe. This requires them to operate laboratory and testing equipment including microscopes, pipettes, autoclaves, and various computerized instruments. They may also be responsible for collecting the samples they will be analyzing. Lab techs are also trained to work with potentially hazardous materials including caustic or infectious substances and are required to adhere to proper laboratory procedures when handling all samples. They may work in hospitals, medical, chemical, or biological laboratories, colleges or universities, or doctor’s offices. Their work environment is primarily a clean, well-lit, well-ventilated laboratory or office and they generally maintain full-time schedules. Lab tech jobs require some kind of post-secondary certification or associate’s degree, and many require at least a bachelor’s degree to be considered for a position.
Assessments for Laboratory Technicians
There are two tests that are often used for laboratory technician jobs. The Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) evaluates a candidate's critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning ability, which are crucial for the analytical and technical nature of lab tech positions. Additionally, since lab techs need to interact effectively with both team members and potentially patients, the Employee Personality Profile (EPP) is also recommended. It assesses personality traits that can predict a candidate's fit within a team and their approach to work.
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Source: U.S. Department of Labor