Medical laboratory technicians’ job satisfaction in Generations X, Y, and Z: Findings from an online survey in Austria / Arbeitszufriedenheit österreichischer biomedizinischer Analytiker*innen in den Generationen X, Y und Z: Ergebnisse einer Online-Umfrage aus Österreich

Abstract

Abstract Goal Medical laboratory technicians (MLTs) play an essential role in health care, and the profession has to deal increasingly with staff shortages. Consequently, retention of employees has become a crucial issue. So far, little attention has been paid to generational differences in factors regarding job satisfaction of MLTs, and comparatively few studies have included the youngest cohort of Generation Z. The aim of this study was to analyse aspects of MLTs’ job satisfaction from a generational perspective and to identify potential for improvement according to the different generations studied. Methods A cross-sectional online survey study design was used. A total of 382 MLTs completed the online survey of which 371 met the eligibility criteria and were assigned to one of the three generational cohorts. The analysis focused on several aspects of job satisfaction, the gap between the perceived relevance and realization of these aspects, and factors influencing job satisfaction by generation. Principal findings For all aspects of job satisfaction, and across all generations, realization was rated worse than importance. Recognition represents the most important influencing factor for job satisfaction, but other aspects are specifically relevant to one of the three generations, such as relationships for Generation X, meaningful contribution for Generation Y, and income for Generation Z. Practical applications The various aspects of job satisfaction show commonalities and differences between the three generations. Employers and professional associations can draw on these findings to positively influence job satisfaction through generation-specific interventions to support this essential healthcare workforce.