Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technicians support scientific analysis, investigation, research and development at the forefront of healthcare innovation. You will provide support to scientists within the laboratory carrying out biological, chemical, physical and life science investigations and are often the first point of processing samples of body cells and tissues on behalf of patients. You will be using equipment and automation. You could work in a hospital, research laboratory or a university.

Laboratory Technician is also known as Biomedical Support Worker, Associate Healthcare Practitioner, Laboratory Assistant.

Role Characteristics

Receive patient samples for testing and load up onto equipment for testing
Prepare chemicals, solutions and specimens for use by scientists
Dispose of chemical and biological waste safely
Follow set procedures for working in the laboratory
Clean and maintain equipment in the laboratory to keep it tidy
Order stock and manage supplies in the laboratory

Skills

Attention to detail
Operating equipment
Problem-solving
Using technology
Observation
Following instructions

Day in the life

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Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

GCSEs

BTEC

T-Level

A-Levels

An apprenticeship

Undergraduate degree

How to become

You will normally need 5 GCSEs including English, maths and sciences. You may need to have A-Levels or you could apply directly and receive on-the-job training. However, volunteering and work experience is valued by employers. It is helpful to be able to use IT systems.

You may be able to join a Level 2 apprenticeship programme which consists of mandatory taught modules and assessments combined with on the job training.

It is important to check your preferred course provider's entry requirements for guidance.

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

You could develop into a more Senior Biomedical Support Worker or Lab Technician where you will take on more responsibility as well as supervision of a small team. You will carry out more complex tasks and may be responsible for running automation for your section. If you are interested in processes and procedures you could be a Quality Manager. If you are good with IT and systems you could support pathology teams with the systems and technology needed to carry out tests and produce reports.

You could study a degree to become a Biomedical Scientist or Pathologist.