- edited by Ben Mudrak
I want to break away from my series on resumes and the interview process to highlight this topic because I would hate for any research technicians out there looking for employment to miss this opportunity.
I have written about this topic in an earlier post, but the number of medical technologist positions open right now with no qualified candidates is overwhelming. The main reason for this shortage is the ASCP (American Society of Clinical Pathology) certification requirement. However, if you have a bachelor’s degree in science, most places are willing to train you and give you time to take the test for your ASCP certification.
At the Veteran’s Administration, you have a year after being hired to take the exam. At Indian Health Services, they will provide training, but it is not clear how long you will have before you need to get your certification.
In Arizona
In addition, despite the downturn in the market, clinical diagnostics is on the rise. Every life sciences company is looking to expand their footprint into the area.
There is also the potential to move up quickly. With the current shortage, the average medical technologist is well into his or her 40s. Many of those technologists will retire and make way for new technicians to move into their place, including filling lab supervisor positions. So, if you have been searching for a technician position and not finding much luck in the research area, consider these positions and don't pass them by even if the requirements state ASCP certification requirement.
If you are in Arizona, you can email me. I can direct you to a few places that are hiring and would be interested in speaking with you.
