Blood Bank Technologist
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BLOOD BANK TECHNOLOGISTS perform both routine and specialized tests in blood centers and transfusion services, using methodology that conforms to the Standards for Blood Centers and Transfusion Services of the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB). They collect, type, and prepare blood and its components for transfusions used for curbing infections, treating leukemia, curing anemia, controlling the bleeding of hemophiliacs, and for use in other life-threatening situations. They support physicians in transfusion therapy for patients with disease affecting blood clotting, for example, or candidates for organ transplant.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $55,500 average per year ($26.75 per hour)
- A large occupation (164,400 workers in 2010)
- Expected to grow moderately (1.2% per year)
Entry Requirements
BLOOD BANK TECHNOLOGISTS must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, and must be certified in medical technology by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, Board of Registry, to enter an educational program for blood bank technology. Most of the educational programs are about 12 months. Some programs offer a master's degree and take longer to complete. If blood bank technologists are not certified, they must have a bachelor's degree with a major in any of the biological or physical sciences and have work experience in a blood bank to enter an educational program.