Scientific laboratory technicians carry out the work that allows scientists to concentrate on, and perform, the more complex analytical processes in the laboratory.

Lab Technicians work with laboratory equipment to analyze samples or substances, they conduct tests on those samples or substances, and report on their findings.

You’ll be involved in a variety of laboratory-based investigations within biological, chemical, physical and life science areas. This can include sampling, testing, measuring, recording and analyzing results as part of a scientific team. Your job is to provide all the required technical support to enable the laboratory to function effectively, while adhering to correct procedures and health and safety guidelines.

We are looking for a meticulous Lab Technician who will be responsible for supporting our laboratory staff with the primary goal of optimizing lab procedures and succeeding in producing reliable test results.

In order to be successful as a Lab Technician you will need to be thorough when carrying out your duties, successfully maintain records of laboratory processes and equipment, and generate reports to submit to the relevant laboratory manager.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Collecting, receiving, labeling, and/or analyzing samples or substances using the correct testing equipment, when necessary.
Designing and executing laboratory testing in line with standard testing procedures, recording observations, and interpreting findings.
Recording all experimental data and test results accurately and in the specified format (written and/or electronic.)
Organizing and storing all chemical substances, fluids, and compressed gases according to safety instructions.
Ensuring that safety guidelines are adhered to at all times within the laboratory.
Maintaining daily logs and equipment record books.
Cleaning, sterilizing, maintaining, and calibrating laboratory equipment.
Ordering laboratory supplies, as needed.
Providing technical support, when necessary.
Keeping up to date with relevant scientific and technical developments.
perform laboratory tests in order to produce reliable and precise data to support scientific investigations
carry out routine tasks accurately and following strict methodologies to carry out analyses
prepare specimens and samples
construct, maintain and operate standard laboratory equipment, for example centrifuges, titrators, pipetting machines and pH meters
keep equipment in a clean and serviceable condition and ensure the safe removal of waste
record, and sometimes interpret, results to present to senior colleagues
use computers and perform mathematical calculations for the preparation of graphs
ensure the laboratory is well-stocked and resourced and that everything is clearly and correctly labelled
keep up to date with technical developments, especially those which can save time and improve reliability
conduct searches on identified topics relevant to the research
follow and ensure strict safety procedures and safety checks.

WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Employers value pre-entry experience in a laboratory, as it not only demonstrates your familiarity with lab procedures, but also shows your commitment and interest in the field. Some degrees come with a placement year, which can be a good opportunity to see what working life in the sector is like.

If your degree doesn’t include a year in industry, try to gain some part-time or voluntary work in a laboratory or scientific setting. You could approach employers to see if it would be possible to work-shadow someone in their organisation.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field.
Valid Laboratory Technician license.
Proven experience working as a Lab Technician.
Working experience operating electrical and non-electrical laboratory equipment.
Comfortable handling potentially dangerous substances (flammable liquids, biohazards, etc.)
In depth knowledge of QHSE management systems, preventative measures, and laboratory best practices.
Working knowledge of MS Office Suite and database systems.
Ability to work autonomously and under pressure.
Superb dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Keen attention to detail.
Analytical skills.

KEY COMPETENCES

Comfortable handling potentially dangerous substances (flammable liquids, biohazards, etc.)
In depth knowledge of QHSE management systems, preventative measures, and laboratory best practices.
Working knowledge of MS Office Suite and database systems.
Ability to work autonomously and under pressure.
Superb dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Keen attention to detail.
Analytical skills.
the ability to learn specific, practical techniques and apply this knowledge to solve technical problems
good hand-eye coordination, to use technical equipment with accuracy
the ability to maintain and calibrate technical equipment
time management skills to work on several different projects at once
flexibility in order to work with and provide support for a number of people
excellent oral communication skills in order to work effectively with colleagues from all parts of the organisation and to explain complex techniques to interested parties
experience in providing demonstrations and writing technical reports
teamwork skills and patience
You’ll also need excellent record-keeping skills, along with basic mathematics and computing.