Introduction
Laboratory technicians in local councils work in two main areas:
education, where they work in schools and colleges, and in public
protection, where they work in support of departments such as
environmental health and trading standards. Laboratory
technicians may also be known as science technicians.
Work Environment
Technicians spend most of their time working in
laboratories. They may be required to wear protective
clothing such as face masks, eye protection, gloves and
overalls. Most technicians work a standard 37-hour week,
Monday to Friday. Some may work a shift rota, including
weekends, to provide 24-hour technical cover.
Daily Activities
Laboratory technicians may be involved in a wide range of
tasks:
- cleaning and repairing scientific equipment such as test tubes
and flasks;
- calibrating complex electronic measuring devices;
- monitoring stock levels of laboratory materials and ordering
new stock as required;
- setting up, conducting and monitoring tests and
experiments;
- analysing samples and interpreting the results;
- recording the results of tests and experiments on
computer;
- reporting findings in official reports;
- supervising more junior staff and managing the laboratory if
appropriate to the role and level of the job.
Additionally, those working in schools may be involved in the
following:
- setting up equipment for tests and experiments before the start
of classes and clearing away afterwards;
- providing technical advice to teachers and students.
Skills & Interests
Laboratory technicians need to be:
- methodical, with good observational skills;
- thorough and accurate in recording the results of tests and
experiments;
- aware of health and safety requirements, for example,
understanding rules for the safe storage and use of hazardous
materials, such as acid and other chemicals;
- adaptable and up-to-date with new technologies and
methods;
- good communicators;
- competent users of ICT.
Entry Requirements
Minimum entry requirements may be four GCSEs/S grades (A*-C/1-3)
or equivalent. However, often, previous science or technical
experience may be more of an advantage. Other relevant entry
qualifications may include:
- BTEC/SQA awards in science subjects, for example, a BTEC
National Certificate or Diploma in Science;
- qualifications via The Institute of Science Technology;
- N/SVQs such as Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities
or Laboratory Technicians: Working in Education.
Future Prospects & Opportunities
With experience and further qualifications, laboratory technicians
may advance into teaching, research, and supervisory roles.
Further Information & Services
British Science Association www.britishscienceassociation.org
The Association for Science Education www.ase.org.uk/about-ase/technicians/
The Institute of Science & Technology www.istonline.org.uk
The Royal Society www.royalsociety.org
You may find further information about this area of work through
Careers Wales (www.careerswales.com/) or
in your local library, careers office or school careers
library.
Careers Wales have produced a Spotlight article on careers
in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths): https://www.careerswales.com/en/spotlight-on-stem/