Biological Science Technician

Career Guide

A Biological Science Technician supports scientists by collecting samples, running lab and field procedures, maintaining equipment, and recording results. The role focuses on reliable day to day execution, careful documentation, and safe handling of biological materials.

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Key Responsibilities

Prepare and label samples for testing
Carry out routine lab procedures under established methods
Collect field samples such as soil, water, plants, or wildlife observations
Operate and maintain lab instruments and field equipment
Mix and store reagents and supplies according to safety rules
Record measurements, observations, and test results in logs or databases
Support quality checks such as controls, calibrations, and repeat tests
Clean work areas and manage waste disposal
Track inventory and reorder consumables
Assist with basic data summaries for reports and presentations

Top Skills for Success

Attention to Detail

Written Documentation

Time Management

Teamwork

Laboratory Safety

Sample Handling

Sterile Technique

Micropipetting

Solution Preparation

Instrument Calibration

Equipment Maintenance

Data Entry

Basic Statistics

Field Sampling

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Biological Science Technician Laboratory Technician Environmental Technician Quality Control Technician Research Assistant

Transition Opportunities

Senior Laboratory Technician Laboratory Supervisor

Research Technologist

Quality Assurance Specialist

Environmental Scientist

Microbiologist

Biologist

Clinical Laboratory Technologist

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Good Laboratory PracticeQuality ControlChain of CustodyLaboratory Information Management SystemsData VisualizationTechnical ReportingInstrument TroubleshootingRegulatory Compliance

Development SuggestionsBuild a portfolio of documented lab or field work, strengthen quality focused habits, and get comfortable with structured data entry systems. Ask to shadow instrument maintenance and learn how to identify common errors, then practice writing clear short summaries of results and anomalies.

Market Intelligence Report

Biological Science Technician is part of the Technical Support & IT Services category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

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Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 35,000 to 45,000

Mid LevelUSD 45,000 to 60,000

Senior LevelUSD 60,000 to 80,000

Growth Trend

Steady demand, with stronger hiring in environmental monitoring, public health laboratories, agriculture, and biotech manufacturing. Demand tends to rise with project funding, seasonal field work, and regulatory testing needs.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

National Institutes of HealthCenters for Disease Control and PreventionUnited States Department of AgricultureUnited States Geological SurveyEnvironmental Protection AgencyThermo Fisher ScientificIQVIAEurofins ScientificSGSBattelle

Industry Sectors

Government research laboratoriesPublic health laboratoriesEnvironmental testing servicesFood and agriculture testingBiotechnologyPharmaceutical researchContract research organizationsUniversitiesHospitals and clinical laboratories

Recommended Next Steps

Create a one page skills inventory listing instruments, methods, and sample types you have used

Update your resume with measurable examples such as samples processed per week and error reduction

Practice documentation by maintaining clean, dated lab notes for every procedure

Complete training in laboratory safety and Good Laboratory Practice

Learn one data tool used in labs such as Excel or a laboratory data system

Prepare for interviews by reviewing common topics such as contamination control and calibration checks

Network with lab managers through local science associations and university labs

Target roles aligned to your interest area such as environmental monitoring, microbiology, or quality control