Biological Technician

Overview and Key Facts

What Do They Do?

A biological technician could...

Overview Listen to this section

What do the sequencing of the human genome, the annual production of millions of units of life-saving vaccines, and the creation of new drought-tolerant rice varieties have in common? They were all accomplished through the hard work of biological technicians. Scientists may come up with the overarching plans, but the day-to-day labor behind biotechnology advances is often the work of skilled biological technicians.

Do You Have the Skills and Characteristics of a Biological Technician?

1. Reading Comprehension: ? Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
2. Critical Thinking: ? Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
3. Active Listening: ? Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
4. Science: ? Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
5. Active Learning: ? Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

6. Writing: ? Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
7. Complex Problem Solving: ? Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
8. Monitoring: ? Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
9. Speaking: ? Talking to others to convey information effectively.
10. Judgment and Decision Making: ? Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Core Tasks

Think about if you'd like the typical tasks a Biological Technician might do:

• Conduct research or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
• Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
• Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
• Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings.
• Provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers working in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, resource management, biology, and health sciences.
• Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities.
• Input data into databases.
• Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.
• Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
• Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas.
• Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with set standards.
• Place orders for laboratory equipment and supplies.