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Ways to move up

• Medical laboratory technologist

  The 2 to 3 year program that runs the actual tests. Some colleges give assistants credit toward it. Starting pay above $60,000.

• Lead or charge assistant

  Scheduling and training the collection team in a big hospital.

• Mobile and home collection

  Driving to patients who cannot come in. Often better hourly pay.

• Specialized collection

  Pediatric draws, blood donor clinics, research studies.