Laboratory Technician: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Laboratory Technician
Practice Interviews Online - Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Laboratory Technician mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now »What is a Laboratory Technician?
As a laboratory technician in the chemistry field, you'll assist chemists by conducting experiments, analyzing chemical substances, and maintaining lab equipment to help create new products or modify existing ones. This hands-on role offers a great opportunity for someone who enjoys both science and working in a laboratory setting.
Skills
- Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and procedures
- Proficiency in handling and maintaining laboratory equipment
- Ability to conduct experiments and analyze data accurately
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Effective communication and teamwork abilities
- Familiarity with chemical and biological substances and their properties
- Understanding of laboratory regulations and compliance standards
- Proficiency in computer software and data management systems
- Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems in a laboratory setting
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing project requirements and timelines
Qualifications & Education
- Possession of a degree in Chemistry or related field
- Possession of an appropriate BTEC/SQA award
- Possession of an Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ Level III
- Possession of other academic qualifications
- Further specialist training provided on the job
- Some employers may expect entrants to gain professional qualifications
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a NHS lab technician in the UK, you can either have appropriate A-levels including at least one science (or equivalent level-3 qualifications) and a good range of A-C grade GCSEs as a healthcare science practitioner, or go through the NHS Practitioner Training Programme (PTP).
To start a career in lab tech in the UK, you can explore education options such as earning a degree or diploma, or consider an apprenticeship. It's important to gain professional experience and continue to develop professionally. You can find and apply for jobs and prepare for technical questions.
Lab technicians can progress to become team managers or lab supervisors with additional experience. Some may also specialize in complex analysis work. With academic qualifications and experience, there are opportunities to progress into senior research roles.
To become a laboratory technician in the UK, you typically need a minimum of a Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject such as biology, chemistry, physics, pharmacy, environmental science, forensic science, materials science, or biomedical science. Some employers may also require a degree in a related field.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Laboratory Technician mock interview, under 10 minutes
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