Biological Technician
Science & Laboratory Technology
Apply scientific principles and technical skills in support of biologists and biotechnologists in research, industrial, and government settings.
What Biological Technicians Do
Apply scientific principles and technical skills in support of biologists and biotechnologists in research, industrial, and government settings.
Common Tasks
- 1Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
- 2Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
- 3Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
- 4Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings.
- 5Provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers working in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, resource management, biology, and health sciences.
What You'll Learn
Work Environment
Locations
- • Biotechnology and pharmaceutical labs
- • University and research institute laboratories
- • Government research and public health labs
- • Environmental testing laboratories
- • Food and agriculture testing facilities
Schedule
Most biological technicians work a set, routine schedule, though some labs require early/late shifts or occasional weekend work to monitor time-sensitive experiments.
Physical Demands
Work is moderately physical, with a mix of sitting at computers and benches and standing while performing lab procedures. Expect frequent hand use and repetitive motions for pipetting, sample prep, and instrument operation, with strict safety practices around chemicals and biohazards.
Salary & Job Outlook
Top Paying States
Why Demand May Grow
Demand may rise as biotech, pharmaceutical, and medical research expands and labs need more staff to run experiments, manage samples, and support quality testing. Growth in environmental monitoring and food safety testing can also increase hiring.
Skills You'll Need
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Hands-on science work in modern labs
- • Clear pathways into biotech, pharma, and research careers
- • Variety of tasks (testing, data collection, instrument use)
- • Skills are transferable across industries (health, environment, food)
- • Median pay is solid for a technician role
Cons
- • Repetitive lab tasks and detailed documentation requirements
- • Exposure to hazardous materials requires strict safety compliance
- • Deadlines and experiment timelines can create moderate time pressure
- • Some roles are dependent on grant or project funding
- • May require shift work for continuous processes or long experiments
Common Questions About the Biological Technician Trade
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