Role Profile

Laboratory Technician

Typical job description:

The role of the laboratory technician is to provide quality control by carrying out routine and non routine testing on a number of product samples.  They are responsible for the supply, maintenance and calibration of all testing equipment within their authority.

Key Processes:

The exact nature of the work will depend on the size of the employing organisation.
However, it will almost certainly involve:

  • carrying out routine and non-routine tasks accurately;
  • performing a limited number of repetitive laboratory tests in order to produce reliable and precise data to support scientific investigations;
  • following strict methodology to carry out analyses;
  • preparing specimens and samples;
  • constructing, maintaining and operating standard laboratory equipment, including centrifuge, pipetting machines, pH meters and titration equipment;
  • ensuring the laboratory is well stocked and resourced;
  • recording and sometimes interpreting results to present to senior colleagues;
  • using IT technology and performing mathematical calculations for the preparation of graphs;
  • keeping up to date with technical developments, especially those which can save time and improve reliability;
  • conducting searches on identified topics relevant to the research;
  • following strict safety procedures and safety checks.

Entry Level:

S/NVQ in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities L2 OR
5 A-C Grade GCSEs (3 of these must be STEM subjects)
5 SCEs at Credit Standard Grade OR
Higher Diploma in Manufacturing & Product Design OR
Related Job Experience
Apprenticeship / Modern Apprenticeship at Level 2

Search for related degrees or courses:
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Pay and conditions:

Laboratory Technicians can expect to earn between 14,000GBP and 25,000GBP. Senior Technicians can earn 30,000GBP or more.

Laboratory Technicians in large industrial complexes may work rotating 24/7 shifts. Others may work 37 hours per week from Monday to Friday in small batch chemical companies and research establishments.

Industry Standard:

Level 3 S/NVQ in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities
AND L3 National Diploma in Applied Science (Laboratory and Industrial Science)
OR
L3 National Certificate in Applied Science (Laboratory and Industrial Science)
AND HNC in Applied Chemistry (or similar) OR QCF Quals
Foundation Degree in Applied Chemistry (or similar L4)
AND Functional / Key / Core Skills - Numeracy, Literacy, IT, Problem Solving and Working with Others L2

Competencies:

  • Record laboratory experiments, present information both written and verbally;
  • Efficiency Orientation
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Interpersonal Awareness
  • Concern for Impact
  • Concern for Standards
  • Thoroughness

Knowledge needed for the role:

  • High standard of computer literacy
  • Have mathematical ability
  • Good knowledge of science
  • Ability to help develop new products or processes in industry

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