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Career Exploration

Biological Technicians

Also called: Biological Technician, Laboratory Technician, Research Associate, Research Technician

What they do:

Assist biological and medical scientists. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, collect data and samples, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs.

On the job, you would:
  • Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
  • Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
  • Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
On the job, you'll need:

Math and Science

  • biology
  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Engineering and Technology

  • computers and electronics

Basic Skills

  • reading work related information
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Verbal

  • listen and understand what people say
  • communicate by speaking

Ideas and Logic

  • make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
  • order or arrange things

Math

  • add, subtract, multiply, or divide
  • choose the right type of math to solve a problem

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Integrity
  • Independence
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Cooperation

Analytical or scientific software

  • Laboratory information management system LIMS
  • SAS

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Graphics or photo imaging software

  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Graphics software

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Bright.

New job opportunities are very likely in the future. This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

Median Annual Salary: $49,650

Education

Bachelor's degree or master's degree is usually needed.