What does a lab technician do?
Lab technicians work across a range of industries, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, food production and forensics. They assist scientists and medical professionals by carrying out tests and experiments that contribute to scientific advancements, patient care and product development. Depending on their field, they may analyse medical samples, test chemical compositions, examine environmental pollutants or help with research projects. Common environments for lab technicians include hospitals, private healthcare laboratories, universities, research institutions and manufacturing facilities. In medical settings, they often support patient diagnoses by conducting blood tests, analysing tissue samples and assisting with pathology investigations.
Lab technicians typically work a standard week, but flexibility is often required, especially when assisting with time-sensitive experiments. They may work in shifts and in some cases, be expected to be on call regularly.
Lab technician skills and qualifications
Lab technician candidates are generally required to possess a combination of technical (hard) skills and interpersonal (soft) skills. These include:
- Strong analytical, problem-solving and organisational skills
- Knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures
- Familiarity with lab equipment, instruments and safety protocols
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Strong communication skills
- Numerical and computer skills for tasks like calculations, data entry and report generation
- Understanding of laboratory health and safety and relevant compliance requirements
- Good hand-eye coordination
Lab technician experience requirements
The level of experience required for a lab technician role depends on the complexity of the tasks involved. Some organisations are open to recruiting entry-level candidates with relevant education and provide on-the-job training. For more specialised roles, employers may prefer candidates with laboratory experience, such as a job in a similar position or those who have received on-the-job training like work placements, internships or volunteer positions in a similar role. Ideally, candidates would have experience working with specific laboratory equipment or testing procedures common to your industry. Senior lab technician roles typically require around five years of experience, including expertise in complex procedures and technical analysis.
Lab technician education and training requirements
While a university degree isn’t always required, most lab technicians hold a formal qualification in a relevant scientific field such as chemistry, biology, biomedical science or applied science. Other candidates may have entered the profession through an apprenticeship or vocational qualification, such as a Level 3 Diploma in Laboratory Science. At minimum, candidates typically need GCSEs, science-related A-levels or relevant vocational qualifications like NVQs in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities or Laboratory Sciences. Further education or professional development can help candidates to stand out. Organisations in the medical sector may require additional training in areas like pathology, microbiology or diagnostic procedures.
Lab technician salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Lab Technician in the UK is £24,773 per year. However, salaries differ depending on level of experience, location and the organisation.
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Lab technician job description FAQs
Who does a lab technician report to?
The reporting structure for a lab technician depends on the industry and work environment. In medical fields, they may report to a physician, pathologist or medical technologist. In research environments, a lab technician usually reports to a researcher or scientist. Large laboratories often have a laboratory/lab manager – in these cases, lab technicians report directly to them.
How can I make my lab technician job description stand out?
To attract top talent, aim to make your job description detailed, engaging and clearly structured. Given that lab technician roles can vary significantly across different industries and workplaces, it’s important to be specific about their responsibilities and your expectations. Clearly outline the key tasks, required skills and experience needed for the role. Highlight unique benefits and perks, such as flexible hours, paid overtime, free parking, an on-site canteen, a generous leave allowance and pension-matching schemes.
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