Laboratory Technicians and Technologists

Employers

Laboratory technicians and technologists work for biotechnology research and manufacturing companies, pharmaceutical companies, environmental services companies, agricultural and food production companies, biofuels producers, colleges and universities, hospitals, research organizations, and government agencies. Federal government agencies that employ lab professionals include the National Institutes of Health, Food and Drug Administration, FBI, and the Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services.

Starting Out

Graduates of laboratory technology programs usually receive assistance from faculty and school career services offices to find their first jobs. Hospitals, laboratories, and other facilities employing laboratory technicians may notify local schools of job openings. Often the hospital or laboratory at which you receive your practical training will offer full-time employment after graduation. Positions may also be secured using the various registries of certified laboratory workers. Internet job sites and commercial placement agencies are other sources of help in locating employment.

Laboratory technicians and technologists often break into the field by working as laboratory assistants during their college education.