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15 Best Jobs For Pre-Med Students | Duties And Salary
As pre-med students strive to gain valuable experience and expand their knowledge in the medical field, finding part-time or summer jobs that align with their career goals becomes crucial.
These jobs provide financial support and opportunities to develop essential skills and gain exposure to the healthcare industry.
This article will explore the 15 best jobs for pre-med students in 2024, highlighting their duties and salary ranges.
What are Pre-med Jobs for Students?
Pre-med jobs provide opportunities for students pursuing a four-year degree, such as biology, to gain valuable professional experience before applying to medical school.
These entry-level positions in the healthcare industry enhance students’ understanding of the field and improve their employability.
Moreover, including these relevant job experiences on their resumes can strengthen pre-med students’ applications when applying to medical schools.
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Why Get A Pre-Med Job?
There are many reasons why a pre-med student might want to get a job in the medical field. Here are a few of the most common reasons:
Gain experience
One of the best ways to learn about a career is to experience it firsthand. A pre-med job can allow you to work in a medical setting and see what it’s like to be a doctor or other healthcare professional.
Make connections
Working in the medical field can help you connect with other healthcare professionals. These connections can be helpful when you’re applying to medical school, and they can also be helpful in your future career.
Earn money
Medical school is expensive, so earning money while in college can help offset some of the costs. A pre-med job can also help you save money for your future career.
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Best Jobs For Pre-Med Students in 2024 With Their Duties and Salaries
Below are the 15 best-paid jobs for pre-med students with their duties and salaries:
1. Medical Scribe
A medical scribe is known as a healthcare professional who works to assist physicians with patient care by taking notes during patient visits, entering medical information into electronic health records (EHRs), and performing other administrative tasks.
Scribes can work in various settings, including doctors’ offices, hospitals, and clinics.
Duties
- Accurately documenting patient encounters and medical histories
- Assisting physicians in creating medical reports
- Managing electronic medical records
Salary Range
The salary range for medical scribes varies depending on experience, location, and employer. According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), the yearly salary for medical scribes was $37,621 in May 2022. The lowest 10% of medical scribes earned less than $28,000, while the highest 10% earned more than $49,000.
2. Research Assistant
A research assistant (RA) is a professional who supports research projects by conducting literature searches, data management, and maintaining files for project researchers.
Duties
- Conducting literature reviews
- Assisting in data collection and analysis
- Collaborating with researchers on experiments and studies
Salary range
The salary range for research assistants varies depending on experience, education, and location.
The median annual salary for research assistants in the United States is $45,000. The lowest 10% of research assistants earn less than $30,000, while the highest 10% earn more than $70,000.
3. Pharmacy Technician
A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing patient care.
Pharmacy technicians work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics.
Duties
- Assisting pharmacists in dispensing medication
- Managing inventory and ordering supplies
- Providing customer service and counseling on medication usage
Salary range
The salary range for pharmacy technicians varies depending on experience, education, and location.
According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in the United States is $34,530.
However, salaries can range from $25,000 to $45,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
4. Medical Assistant
A medical assistant is a healthcare professional who provides administrative, clinical, and technical support to physicians and other healthcare professionals.
Medical assistants work in various settings, including doctors’ offices, hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.
Duties
- Taking patient vitals and medical histories
- Assisting physicians with procedures and examinations
- Administering medications and injections
Salary range
The salary range for medical assistants varies depending on experience, education, and location.
According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), the yearly salary for medical assistants in the United States is $35,850.
However, salaries can range from $25,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
An emergency medical technician (EMT) is a healthcare professional providing basic and advanced life support (BLS and ALS) care to emergency patients. EMTs work in various settings, including ambulances, fire stations, and hospitals.
Duties
- Responding to medical emergencies and providing basic life support
- Assessing patients’ conditions and administering necessary treatments
- Transporting patients to medical facilities
Salary range
The salary range for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) varies depending on experience, education, and location.
According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), the median annual salary for EMTs in the United States is $35,500.
However, salaries can range from $25,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
6. Medical Scribe Editor
A medical scribe editor is a healthcare professional who works closely with physicians and other healthcare providers to create and maintain accurate and complete medical records.
Scribes typically have a strong understanding of medical terminology and procedures and excellent writing and editing skills. They work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices.
Duties
- Reviewing and editing medical documents for accuracy and clarity
- Ensuring adherence to documentation guidelines and standards
- Providing feedback and guidance to medical scribes
Salary range
The salary range for medical scribe editors varies depending on experience, education, and location.
According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), the median annual salary for medical scribe editors in the United States is $35,000.
However, salaries can range from $25,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
7. Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
A medical billing and coding specialist is a healthcare professional who is responsible for ensuring that medical claims are submitted to insurance companies accurately and on time.
They also work with patients and healthcare providers to understand and explain the billing process.
Duties
- Assigning appropriate codes to medical procedures and diagnoses
- Handling insurance claims and billing processes
- Ensuring compliance with coding regulations and guidelines
Salary range
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for medical billing and coding specialists in the United States is $37,910.
However, salaries can range from $25,000 to $55,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
8. Health Educator
A health educator is a professional who promotes health and wellness through education and behavior change.
They work with individuals, groups, and communities to help them make healthy choices and improve their overall health.
Duties
- Developing and delivering educational programs on health topics
- Conducting outreach activities and health screenings
- Collaborating with community organizations and healthcare providers
Salary range
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for health educators in the United States is $45,180.
However, salaries can range from $35,000 to $60,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
9. Medical Interpreter
A medical interpreter is a healthcare professional who facilitates communication between patients and healthcare providers who do not speak the same language. They play a vital role in ensuring patients receive quality care and protect their rights.
Duties
- Facilitating communication between healthcare providers and non-English-speaking patients
- Interpreting medical terminology accurately and sensitively
- Maintaining patient confidentiality and cultural sensitivity
Salary range
The salary range for medical interpreters varies depending on experience, education, and location.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for medical interpreters in the United States is $50,890.
However, salaries can range from $40,000 to $60,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
10. Hospital or Clinic Receptionist
A hospital or clinic receptionist is a front-line employee who is responsible for greeting patients, scheduling appointments, and providing general information about the facility.
They play a vital role in the smooth operation of the hospital or clinic, and they must be able to handle various tasks and responsibilities.
Duties
- Greeting and assisting patients, visitors, and staff
- Scheduling appointments and managing administrative tasks
- Providing excellent customer service and phone etiquette
Salary range
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for hospital or clinic receptionists in the United States is $35,000.
However, salaries can range from $25,000 to $45,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
11. Medical Writer
A medical writer is a professional who writes and edits medical content, such as journal articles, clinical trials, and marketing materials.
They work with various stakeholders, including doctors, researchers, and patients, to ensure that the information is accurate, clear, and easy to understand. This job proudly sits as one of the best jobs for pre-med students.
Duties
- Creating content for medical publications, websites, and educational materials
- Researching and interpreting scientific studies and data
- Collaborating with healthcare professionals and editors
Salary range
The salary range for medical writers varies depending on experience, education, and location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for medical writers in the United States is $71,238.
However, salaries can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
12. Personal Care Assistant
A personal care assistant (PCA) is a healthcare worker who assists individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs) who have difficulty performing these tasks independently.
ADLs include activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, toileting, and transferring.
Duties
- Assisting individuals with daily living activities
- Providing companionship and emotional support
- Monitoring and reporting changes in patient’s health
Salary range
The salary range for personal care assistants (PCAs) varies depending on experience, education, and location.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for PCAs in the United States is $25,393. However, salaries can range from $23,068 to $28,064.
Salary ranges can also vary depending on the specific duties and responsibilities of the position.
13. Medical Device Sales Representative
A medical device sales representative sells medical devices to healthcare providers, such as doctors, nurses, and hospitals.
They work with various medical devices, including implants, prosthetics, and surgical instruments. This job is considered as one of the best pre-med jobs for students.
Duties
- Promoting and selling medical devices to healthcare professionals
- Providing product information and demonstrations
- Building and maintaining relationships with clients
Salary range
The salary range for medical device sales representatives varies depending on experience, education, and location.
According to the U.S. BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), the yearly salary for medical device sales representatives in the United States is $103,360.
However, salaries can range from $70,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
14. Phlebotomist
A phlebotomist is a medical professional whose job is to draw blood from patients. They work in several settings, including hospitals, clinics, and blood donation centers.
Phlebotomists must be able to follow safety procedures, work quickly and efficiently, and interact with patients professionally and compassionately. This is one of the best pre-med jobs for students.
Duties
- Collecting blood samples from patients for laboratory testing
- Ensuring proper labeling and handling of specimens
- Following infection control and safety protocols
Salary range
The salary range for phlebotomists varies depending on experience, education, and location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for phlebotomists in the United States is $33,610.
However, salaries can range from $25,000 to $45,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
15. Tutor or Teaching Assistant in Biology/Anatomy
Tutoring and teaching assistant positions in biology and anatomy can be a great way to gain experience in the field and help others learn. These positions are often available at universities, colleges, and high schools. This is one of the best pre-med jobs for students.
Duties
- Assisting students with understanding biology and anatomy concepts
- Conducting tutoring sessions and providing educational support
- Grading assignments and assisting professors in-class activities
Salary range
The salary range for tutoring and teaching assistant positions in biology and anatomy varies depending on experience, education, and location.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for tutors in the United States is $25,750.
However, salaries can range from $15,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.
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How To Choose The Right Pre-Med Job?
There are many factors to consider when choosing a pre-med job. Here are a few tips:
Consider your interests and goals.
1. What are you passionate about? What do you want to do with your life? A pre-med job that aligns with your interests and goals will be more rewarding and fulfilling.
2. Think about your skills and experience. What are you good at? What have you done in the past? A pre-med job that matches your strengths will be easier and more enjoyable.
3. Do your research. Talk to people with pre-med jobs, read online reviews, and get as much information as possible. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to decide.
4. Be flexible. Not all pre-med jobs are created equal. Some jobs will be more demanding than others. Be prepared to adjust your expectations and be flexible with your schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pre-med jobs serve multiple purposes for students. They provide valuable professional experience in the healthcare industry, allowing students to gain practical skills, exposure to medical settings, and a deeper understanding of the field.
Yes, pre-med jobs can positively impact medical school admissions. Engaging in these positions demonstrates a student’s dedication to the medical profession and provides valuable experiences that admissions committees consider when evaluating applicants.
Pre-med jobs offer students the chance to develop various skills relevant to the medical field. These can include clinical skills and research skills.
The specific qualifications or certifications required for pre-med jobs can vary depending on the role and the organization offering the position. Some jobs, such as becoming an EMT or medical assistant, may require specific training and certification.
Students can find pre-med job opportunities through various avenues. They can explore job boards and websites specific to healthcare or contact local hospitals, clinics, research institutions, or medical schools directly to inquire about available positions.
Conclusion
Pre-med jobs offer students valuable opportunities to gain professional experience and enhance their preparation for medical school.
These positions provide hands-on exposure to the healthcare industry, develop essential skills, and demonstrate commitment to the medical profession.
By engaging in pre-med jobs, students can deepen their understanding of the field, bolster their resumes, and increase their chances of medical career success.
Whether through medical scribing, research assistance, volunteering, or other roles, pre-med jobs play a crucial role in shaping aspiring healthcare professionals and their future endeavors in the medical field.
References
- indeed.com– 10 Jobs for Pre-Med Students (With Salaries and Duties)
- prospectivedoctor.com– The Best Pre-Med Jobs [Highest-Paid + Clinical Experience]
- themdjourney.com– 8 Best Jobs For Pre-Med Students [Duties And Salary]
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