Scientific laboratory technician

About this occupation

Scientific laboratory technicians carry out laboratory-based research, analysis and testing and support life science professionals. They sample, test, measure, research and analyse in areas such as biology, biotechnology, environmental science, forensic science and pharmacology. Scientific laboratory technicians also observe and monitor laboratory activities, record test sequences and analyse the results.

• Perform quality control analyses to ensure accuracy of test results.
• Conduct blood tests for transfusion purposes and perform blood counts.
• Conduct chemical analyses of body fluids, such as blood or urine, using microscope or automatic analyzer to detect abnormalities or diseases and enter findings into computer.
• Analyze the results of tests or experiments to ensure conformity to specifications, using special mechanical or electrical devices.
• Set up, maintain, calibrate, clean, and test sterility of medical laboratory equipment.
• Examine cells stained with dye to locate abnormalities.

Preparation

Job Zone 3 of 5

Interests

Realistic, Investigative, Conventional

Top skills: Reading Comprehension, Active Listening, Critical Thinking, Operations Monitoring, Quality Control Analysis, Speaking

Subjects this work relies on

How important each subject's knowledge is in the job itself, rated by people doing it (1 to 5).

• ChemistryO*NET: ChemistryVery important (4.0)
• English or Literature in EnglishO*NET: English LanguageVery important (4.0)
• BiologyO*NET: BiologyVery important (3.7)
• Computer StudiesO*NET: Computers and ElectronicsImportant (3.5)
• Mathematics or StatisticsO*NET: MathematicsImportant (3.3)
• MetalworkO*NET: MechanicalImportant (3.0)

O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.

Preparation needed

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.