Laboratory Technician
Laboratory technicians are responsible for ensuring a laboratory runs smoothly in its daily operations and that all safety protocols and standards are being followed. They reorder supplies, maintain security standards, manage the disposal of samples and train new employees within the lab.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Be responsible for the supervision of day-to-day operations of the lab
- Clean, maintain and set up equipment for use in experiments
- Collect, classify and preserve specimens and samples
- Check supply levels, place orders, and put away and distribute new supplies
- Research new products, services and information systems to see if they would be suited for use in the lab
- Provide support and guidance by assisting lab employees with their daily duties
- Carry out experimental procedures and perform measurements with scientific equipment
- Ensure timely completion of service requests
- Complete and maintain all training required for staff
- Manage the department budget
- Perform routine mathematical calculations and prepare graphs
- Use computers and computer-interfaced equipment
- Carry out routine quality assurance checks
- Assist in the writing of lab reports
- Ensure that the lab is up to health and safety standards and technicians are following rules and standards
- Assist with and supervise the maintenance of the lab and equipment
- Perform basic office responsibilities such as scheduling meetings, greeting visitors and ordering office supplies
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- anatomy
- biology
- mathematics
- statistics
- chemistry
- physics
Education/Training Required:
A bachelor’s degree in laboratory science, agricultural science, biology, chemistry or a related field is required. A degree in your lab’s specific area of study, such as animal science or plant science, may also be helpful. Some laboratories may require a master’s or doctorate in a related field with general experience working in a lab.
