Laboratory Technician

Laboratory technicians perform experiments and carry out procedures as part of research projects.  They may also provide assistance with investigating potential products that could cure disease, improve crops, help clean up the environment, and detect contaminated food.  There may be some routine work but the possibilities for a variety of tasks and independent thinking are huge if the person demonstrates both initiative, proficiency at laboratory skills, and knowledge. In general, technicians have regular weekday hours (9 am - 5 pm), unless there is a “work crunch” at the company. Career pathways often start in entry-level positions such as fill or solution preparation, and progress to R & D technician, and further with additional education.