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Laboratory technicians carry out routine laboratory tests and checks and perform a variety of technical support functions requiring the application of established or prescribed procedures and techniques to assist scientists with their research, development, analysis and testing, and to verify the physical, chemical and other characteristics of materials and products.

Main tasks

  • Keeps up to date with new technical developments.
  • Disposes of chemical and biological waste safely.
  • Maintains and rotates stock and supplies.
  • Records and collates data obtained from experimental work and documents all work carried out.
  • Operates and services specialised scientific equipment, undertakes prescribed measurements and analyses and ensures that sterile conditions necessary for some equipment are maintained.
  • Prepares organic and inorganic material for examination and stains and fixes slides for microscope work.
  • Sets up and assists with the construction and the development of scientific apparatus for experimental, demonstration or other purposes.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£39,497.99

Average earnings

£25,043.99

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Science

Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Chemistry

Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Computers and Electronics

Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Level 4 NVQ; Intermediate, DipHE, DipFE

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 2%
Level 1 5%
Level 2 14%
Level 3 21%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 11%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 35%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 9%
Level 8 (Doctorate) 3%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.