Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Biology Laboratory Technician- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Organising, Planning, and Prioritising Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritise, organise, and accomplish your work.
Working Life
Biology laboratory (lab) technicians help scientists to develop new processes and products, do experiments, or analyse and test biological samples by preparing specimens and manual tests in accordance with detailed instructions.
Biology lab technicians look after the day-to-day running of the laboratory. They clean, sterilise and repair equipment such as test tubes. They monitor stock, sometimes using computers, and order replacements when necessary.
Technicians are involved in a wide variety of biological tasks and investigations. In pharmaceutical companies, they may examine how a disease develops and spreads, and help scientists to test the strength and possible side effects of a new drug.
Some technicians work in education laboratories, helping teachers and students by maintaining equipment, and setting up and clearing away experiments.
In the food industry technicians may test food safety, check for harmful micro-organisms, or control the helpful micro-organisms used to make products like bread, yogurt, cheese and wine.
In forensic science technicians prepare samples from body fluids like blood and saliva.
Biological lab technicians monitor samples from plants and animals, including bacterial and tissue cultures. They may look after laboratory animals, or help to breed animals especially for research.
Most commonly reported Work 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.
- Analyse 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.
- Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities.
- Input data into databases.
- Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.
- Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
- Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas.
Qualities - Biology Laboratory Technician
As a biology laboratory technician, you must be thorough, methodical and accurate in setting up and carrying out experiments. You must be able to record test results, and write technical reports. Good teamwork skills are very important, because technicians work closely with researchers, scientists, or teachers. You must be prepared to learn to use complicated equipment and computers.
Technicians are often trained in the workplace, so you must be willing to learn and develop new knowledge and skills. Health and safety is a high priority, and you must keep to procedures, accept health checks and use protective clothing and equipment when needed.
Interests - Biology Laboratory Technician
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Naturalist
Not surprisingly, some aspect of the natural sciences will run through the Naturalist's interests - from ecological awareness to nutrition and health. People with an interest in horticulture, land usage and farming (including fish) are Naturalists.
Some Naturalists focus on animals rather than plants, and may enjoy working with, training, caring for, or simply herding them. Other Naturalists will prefer working with the end result of nature's produce - the food produced from plants and animals. Naturalists like solving problems with solutions that show some sensitivity to the environmental impact of what they do. They like to see practical results and prefer action to talking and discussing.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Entry / Progression - Biology Laboratory Technician
There are many pathways to develop towards a career as a Laboratory Analyst. As the trainee progresses in experience and qualifications he/she will normally have the opportunity to specialise in a particular field such as chemistry, physics, electronics, geology, engineering, biology, food sciences, plastics, biochemistry, toxicology, etc.
Many employers encourage staff to continue with further study for higher qualifications. These can lead to teaching, research or supervisory positions.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: laboratory assistant.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: lab techniques, pre-apprenticeship, lab science, applied science.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Lab Technician, Lab Analyst.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: applied science, pharma science, chemical science.
Search for CAO Courses
Pay & Salary - Biology Laboratory Technician
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €35k - €60k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
Morgan McKinley / Brightwater / HSE / Indeed/ Sigmar
Last Updated: July, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Biology Laboratory Technician
This occupation has been identified as a Job in Demand by the most recent National Skills Bulletin.
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Laboratory technicians; Electrical and electronic technicians; Engineering technicians Quality assurance; technicians Planning, process and production; technicians Science, engineering and production technicians n.e.c.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
Employment levels fell between 2021 and 2022, by approximately 3,000 persons, but remained above 2017 levels, resulting in a positive, but below average, annual average growth rate for the five-year period. Employment for this occupation was primarily in industry (accounting for a 60% share of employment). Employment permits issued were across a variety of technician roles (e.g. process, manufacturing, laboratory). The Recruitment Agency Survey identified vacancies for maintenance technicians in manufacturing with electrical/mechanical skills as difficult-to-fill.
Employers (Skills for Growth) experienced difficulties in filling a range of engineering technician roles, including aircraft technicians and manufacturing technicians, particularly for those with digital skills and knowledge of procedures/processes. There was a 3% increase in the number of online job adverts in 2022, driven by increases in electrical/electronic technicians and, to a lesser extent, laboratory technicians.
New apprenticeship registrations for a number of industry related technicians (including lab analysts) have risen strongly since the first of these programmes were introduced in 2017; by 2022 there were 314 new registrations across a range of apprenticeships (lab analyst, manufacturing technology, OEM engineer etc.) up from approximately 100 in 2017. Although demand seems to be lessening for these roles, issues with attracting suitable candidates remain for maintenance and laboratory technicians in particular, at least in the short-term.
Useful Contacts - Biology Laboratory Technician
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Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association
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Institute of Biomedical Science
- 12 Coldbath Square London EC1R 5HL UK
- + 44 (0)20 7713 0214
- Click Here
