Biological Technicians
What is a Biological Technician?
Biological technicians are professionals who assist biological and medical scientists in laboratories by conducting experiments and analyses that contribute to the understanding of life sciences. They play a crucial role in research and development, helping to investigate the biological aspects of living organisms, including plants, animals, and humans. Their work often involves preparing laboratory specimens, setting up and maintaining laboratory equipment, and documenting results. These technicians may also support the development of new medications, improve agricultural products, or contribute to environmental and ecological studies. They typically work in laboratories within various settings, such as universities, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and government agencies, and are essential in aiding scientific discoveries and innovations that can lead to advances in healthcare, biotechnology, and conservation.
Tasks
- Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
- Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
- Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
- Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings.
- Provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers working in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, resource management, biology, and health sciences.
Technology Skills
- Analytical or scientific software
- Presentation software
- Graphics or photo imaging software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Spreadsheet software
Tools Used
- Robotic or automated liquid handling systems
- Manual or electronic hematology differential cell counters
- Spectrofluorimeters or fluorimeters
- Deoxyribonucleic sequence analyzers
- Microbiology analyzers
Knowledge
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Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Skills
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Abilities
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Master's degree
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Post-baccalaureate certificate
Awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree, but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master
Work Activities
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Detailed Work Activities
- Collect biological specimens.
- Monitor operational procedures in technical environments to ensure conformance to standards.
- Interpret research or operational data.
- Research microbiological or chemical processes or structures.
- Record research or operational data.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$36970.0 - $80330.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.