Lab Technologist and Technician

What a Lab Technologist and Technician Does

Lab technologists and technicians assist in research and development in laboratories around the world. They help scientists do the practical aspects of cutting-edge research. This can include setting up, operating and maintaining lab equipment, monitoring experiments, making observations, analyzing data, and developing conclusions based on lab tests. Lab technologists and technicians must be meticulous, detail oriented and have an in-depth knowledge of the field they work in. As lab techniques have grown more complex, some lab technicians now not only help with basic tasks but devise new and better ways of performing tests and interpreting the data they generate. There are a variety of areas in which lab techs can work including everything from medicine to food science. Lab techs will spend most of their workdays in a laboratory settings, though some professions may require fieldwork. Lab techs must also be cautious and observe proper safety procedures, as some of the substances they work with can be dangerous or even deadly.

How to Become a Lab Technologist and Technician

To get into this field, individuals will need to complete at least some post-secondary training in the applied sciences. While some specializations will only require an associate's degree some, like forensic science and biological science, will require a bachelor's. While a college education is suggested as it provides more job mobility, it is not always required for entry level positions. Many universities and community colleges will offer programs that will provide the appropriate training for this profession, and depending on the degree you pursue, it could take anywhere from two to four years to complete the program. Some schools will allow students to do work study, giving them experience while they earn their degrees. Coursework for these programs, if there is no internship or work-study, will include a practical aspect, teaching students how to a variety of tasks in the lab. Most new graduates will work as trainees before being allowed to work independently.

Career Outlook for Lab Technologists and Technicians

Job growth for this field will depend largely on the type of lab work technologists and technicians take on. Those interesting in working in a medical or clinical setting will see a jump in growth of about 14 to 16 percent while those interested in working in a science lab may only see anywhere from 29 to 2 percent growth in their field. Industries with the greatest job growth with be environmental science, forensic science and biological science. As these industries grow, they will need staff to support the testing and lab work that needs to be done. Those who have additional training in these fields and are well-versed in lab technology will have the best job prospects. Salaries for lab technologists and technicians are reported by hourly pay, with the highest paid specializations earning $32.64 an hour and the lowest $15.39 an hour.