Introduction

Laboratory technicians in local councils work in two main areas: education, where they work in schools and colleges, and in public protection, where they work in support of departments such as environmental health and trading standards. Laboratory technicians may also be known as science technicians.

Work Environment

Technicians spend most of their time working in laboratories. They may be required to wear protective clothing such as face masks, eye protection, gloves and overalls.

Most technicians work a standard 37-hour week, Monday to Friday. Some may work a shift rota, including weekends, to provide 24-hour technical cover.

Daily Activities

Laboratory technicians may be involved in a wide range of tasks:

• cleaning and repairing scientific equipment such as test tubes and flasks;
• calibrating complex electronic measuring devices;
• monitoring stock levels of laboratory materials and ordering new stock as required;
• setting up, conducting and monitoring tests and experiments;
• analysing samples and interpreting the results;
• recording the results of tests and experiments on computer;
• reporting findings in official reports;
• supervising more junior staff and managing the laboratory if appropriate to the role and level of the job.

Additionally, those working in schools may be involved in the following:

• setting up equipment for tests and experiments before the start of classes and clearing away afterwards;
• providing technical advice to teachers and students.

Skills & Interests

Laboratory technicians need to be:

• methodical, with good observational skills,
• thorough and accurate in recording the results of tests and experiments,
• aware of health and safety requirements, for example, understanding rules for the safe storage and use of hazardous materials, such as acid and other chemicals,
• adaptable and up to date with new technologies and methods,
• good communicators,
• competent users of ICT.

Entry Requirements

Minimum entry requirements may be four GCSEs/S grades (A*-C/1-3) or equivalent. However, often, previous science or technical experience may be more of an advantage. Other relevant entry qualifications may include:

• BTEC/SQA awards in science subjects, for example, a BTEC National Certificate or Diploma in Science;
• qualifications via the Institute of Science Technology;
• N/SVQs such as Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities or Laboratory Technicians: Working in Education.

Estimated salary range

£12,000 – £18,000 per year.

Please note that salary information is a guide only and there may be local agreements in place. For further information about salaries for particular positions, please contact your local council directly.

Future prospects & opportunities

With experience and further qualifications, laboratory technicians may advance into teaching, research, and supervisory roles.

Related Occupations

Follow this link to view a list of all related occuptions in Protecting Your Community.
Alternatively, follow this link to view all career profiles placed in the same job area.

Further Information & Services

Institute of Science & Technology www.istonline.org.uk

Apprenticeship information www.apprenticeships.org.uk

You may find further information about this area of work in your local Connexions service/careers office/school careers library – under F and TD.

What should I do next?

Look for current local government Laboratory Technician vacancies in the following places:

• LGjobs.com - the official recruitment website for local government.
• Weekly, bi-weekly or monthly jobs bulletins produced by local councils themselves, available from libraries, community centres, town halls/main civic buildings and central council personnel departments.
• Local council websites.
• Local newspapers
• National newspapers – The Guardian is particularly well known for its public sector job advertisements on a Wednesday.

Find out about the council and get some work experience if possible by:

• Making the most of work experience placements arranged through your school, college or university.
• Contacting councils close to your home to find out about the work experience opportunities they offer.
• Talking to someone who does the job you are interested in – ring your local council to see if someone can spare some time.
• Making an appointment to see a careers adviser for more specific information about jobs and training.