Laboratory technician

As a laboratory technician, you could:

• set up experiments and investigations
•  prepare solutions, cultures and specimens
•  analyse samples using scientific instruments
•  collect and present data and statistics
•  calibrate, clean and maintain equipment, and follow safety rules

We've identified this as a potential green job

For a laboratory technician to be a green job, you could:

• work with scientists to develop more energy efficient products
•  test soil and water samples to check for toxins and pollutants
•  analyse data from crop experiments to limit the effects of pests and diseases

Find out more about green careers

• science skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• thinking and reasoning skills
• maths knowledge
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

With experience, you could:

• become a lab supervisor or lab manager
•  specialise in complex analysis work
•  apply to become a Registered Science Technician to develop your career

You could also take further training at degree or postgraduate level to become a research scientist.