Biotechnician Job Description
Biotechnicians, also known as biological technicians, can work within various specialized areas within biology. They constantly use tools and technology associated with biological research. This a career for those who pay attention to detail, think analytically and are willing to cooperate with others. Biotechnicians usually seek supportive management, good working conditions and job security.
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Description
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Biotechnicians assist biological scientists within laboratories. They work with biologists studying living organisms and help maintain, set up and operate laboratory equipment. They also research by making observations, calculating results and recording these results. Typically, biotechnicians analyze organic substances, such as blood, food and drugs. Other titles that a bio technicians may have are biological technician, laboratory technician, biological science laboratory technician and research assistant.
Specialized Areas
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Biotechnicians can be found working for pharmaceutical companies or in areas such as microbiology and biotechnology. They may be employed by pharmaceutical companies to help develop and manufacture medicine or may work within microbiology as lab assistants who study infectious agents or living organisms. Biotechnicians may also work within biotechnology and apply research, such as gene splicing, directly into to product development.
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Work Environment and Hours
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Most biotechnicians work in laboratories and have regular hours. Some work irregular hours to monitor experiments that cannot be completed during conventional working hours. Biotechnicians may be exposed to hazards from chemicals, toxic materials or even typical on-the-job tools. However, such conditions pose little threat when proper safety procedures are adhered to.
Qualifications
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Biotechnicians require a bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related scientific field. Communication skills are important, since biotechnicians report their findings either orally or in writing. They should be able to work well with others, especially since collaborative research may occur. Biotechnicians should have strong computer skills. They organize well, have attention to detail, have a high aptitude in mechanics, are analytical thinkers and are well trained in interpreting scientific results.
Salary
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics said the mean hourly wage of a biotechnician was $19.67 in 2008, and the mean annual wage was $40,900. Annual wage ranged from $24,530 to $62,260 annually.
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References
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