In addition, technologists in particular are expected to be good at problem solving and to have strong interpersonal and communications skills. Technologists may advance to supervisory positions in laboratory work or become chief medical technologists or laboratory managers in hospitals. Manufacturers of home diagnostic testing kits and laboratory equipment and supplies seek experienced technologists to work in product development, marketing, and sales. Graduate education in medical technology, one of the biological sciences, chemistry, management, or education usually speeds advancement. A doctorate is needed to become a laboratory director.
Technicians can become technologists through additional education and experience.
As in most occupations, replacement needs will be the main source of job openings. Employment of clinical laboratory workers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005 creating additional job openings. The rapidly growing older population will spur demand, since older people generally have more medical problems. Technological changes will have two opposite effects on employment. New, more powerful diagnostic tests will encourage more testing and spur employment.