Overview
A Laboratory technician supports scientists and help carry out tests, set up equipment, research and investigate in a science laboratory. Good hand-eye coordination and be able to use needles would be needed.
Activities
- conducting and supporting scientific investigations and experiments
- planning, setting up and undertaking controlled experiments and trials
- recording and analysing data
- demonstrating procedures
- collecting, preparing and/or testing samples
Organisations
The main employers of lab technicians are, research organisations, hospitals and public health, government agencies, chemical companies, food manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies. These can be small to large laboratories.
Workplaces
This type of work would be done indoors in a special laboratory with equipment suited for the tests that are being carried out. You would need to be comfortable to work with samples such as blood and skin tissue.
Working Hours
Typical hours for this role would be full time 38-40 hours per week, working on a shift rota including evenings and weekends.
Salary
Starting salary would be £17,000
Qualifications
You’ll usually need:4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science. Some roles may also require A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
You could also apply for an apprenticeship. If you have an EHCP you may be able to apply under the Dfe exemption which allows the apprentice to use Entry level 3 English and Maths qualifications. The apprentice would have to be competent enough to successfully achieve all other aspects of the apprenticeship requirements, become occupationally competent and achieve Entry Level 3 in English and Maths before the end of their apprenticeship.