Biological Tech

Assist biological and medical scientists. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, collect data and samples, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Biological Science Lab Tech (Biological Science Laboratory Technician); Biological Science Technician (Biological Science Tech); Biologist Aide; Biologist Technician (Biologist Tech); Environmental Technician (Environmental Tech); Fisheries Biological Technician (Fisheries Biological Tech); Marine Fisheries Technician (Marine Fisheries Tech); Microbiology Technician (Microbiology Tech); Research Assistant; Research Associate

Tasks

• Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
• Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
• Examine animals and specimens to detect the presence of disease or other problems.
• Input data into databases.
• Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.
• Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with set standards.
• Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities.
• Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
• Measure or weigh compounds and solutions for use in testing or animal feed.
• Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas.
• Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
• Conduct standardized biological, microbiological or biochemical tests and laboratory analyses to evaluate the quantity or quality of physical or chemical substances in food or other products.
• Place orders for laboratory equipment and supplies.

Knowledge

• Biology
• English Language
• Computers and Electronics
• Chemistry
• Mathematics

Skills

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Science
• Critical Thinking
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Speaking
• Monitoring
• Mathematics

Abilities

• Oral Comprehension
• Inductive Reasoning
• Information Ordering
• Near Vision
• Oral Expression
• Deductive Reasoning
• Written Comprehension
• Written Expression
• Problem Sensitivity
• Category Flexibility
• Speech Clarity
• Selective Attention
• Flexibility of Closure
• Speech Recognition
• Fluency of Ideas
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Number Facility
• Speed of Closure
• Perceptual Speed
• Visualization
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Finger Dexterity
• Visual Color Discrimination