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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Biological Technicians.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Biological Technicians.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 9%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
Becoming a biological technician involves several steps, including education, hands-on experience, and sometimes certification. Here's a guide to help you start your career as a biological technician.
To begin your career as a biological technician, you'll typically need at least a bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related field. Here's what to focus on during your academic journey:
Bachelor's Degree: Most entry-level biological technician jobs require a bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, or a similar area. Coursework should include laboratory classes that cover various scientific disciplines such as:
Laboratory Skills: Practical laboratory skills are crucial. Participate in laboratory courses and seek opportunities to assist with research projects or work in campus labs.
Hands-on experience is invaluable in this field. You can gain this through:
Internships: Look for internship opportunities with research labs, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies. These positions often offer a mix of fieldwork and lab work.
Undergraduate Research: Engage in undergraduate research opportunities at your university to get direct experience in planning experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results.
While not always required, obtaining professional certification can enhance your job prospects and demonstrate your expertise:
Professional Certification: Organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology offer certifications for laboratory professionals. Certification requirements typically include education, experience, and passing an examination.
Specialization: Consider specializing in areas such as environmental biology, forensic science, or biotechnology. Specialization may require additional coursework or training.
In addition to technical skills, soft skills are essential for biological technicians. These include:
Communication Skills: You must be able to communicate your findings clearly and concisely, both in writing and orally.
Attention to Detail: Precision is key in laboratory work, so pay close attention to details and protocols.
Analytical Skills: Be prepared to analyze data and troubleshoot experiments. Strong analytical skills will help you interpret results and draw conclusions.
Networking can play an important role in finding job opportunities:
Professional Organizations: Join professional organizations like the American Institute of Biological Sciences to network with peers and stay informed about industry news and job openings.
Career Fairs and Workshops: Attend career fairs and workshops offered by your university or professional organizations to meet potential employers.
Online Job Boards: Utilize online job boards and websites that post job openings for biological technicians.
By following these steps, you can prepare yourself for a successful career as a biological technician. Remember to stay curious, keep learning, and remain adaptable to changes within the scientific community.
To start a career as a biological technician, typically you need:
While not always mandatory, the following certifications can be advantageous:
To excel as a biological technician, you should possess:
The day-to-day responsibilities include:
Advancement opportunities may involve:
Job opportunities can be found on various platforms including:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of biological technicians is projected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations. Factors contributing to this growth include the continued need for research in biotechnology and other life sciences.
Remember to keep your skills updated and network within scientific communities to increase your job prospects in this field.