What do biological technicians do?
Assist biological and medical scientists. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, collect data and samples, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs.
This describes a U.S. occupation, not a live vacancy. Individual employers may use different titles and requirements.
Job titles to recognize in your search
O*NET reports these titles for this occupation. Compare the responsibilities in each posting before treating titles as equivalent.
- Biological Science Lab Tech (Biological Science Laboratory Technician)
- Biological Science Technician (Biological Science Tech)
- Biologist Aide
- Biologist Technician (Biologist Tech)
- Environmental Technician (Environmental Tech)
- Fisheries Biological Technician (Fisheries Biological Tech)
- Marine Fisheries Technician (Marine Fisheries Tech)
- Microbiology Technician (Microbiology Tech)
Core tasks to compare with a job posting
- Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
- Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
- Examine animals and specimens to detect the presence of disease or other problems.
- Input data into databases.
- Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.
- Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with set standards.
- Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities.
- Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
- Measure or weigh compounds and solutions for use in testing or animal feed.
- Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas.
Prepare an application for this occupation
- Check the employer’s requirements, location, schedule and any licenses against your situation.
- Choose two or three tasks above that match the posting and your actual experience.
- Build a resume evidence worksheet using the skills and software relevant to that employer.
- Practice explaining your contribution, decisions and results before an interview.
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