Laboratory Testing Technicians

Hands-on laboratory experience is recommended for aspiring laboratory testing technicians. You can obtain this experience through laboratory classes in high school and college, and by participating in internships and part-time jobs at laboratories.

Laboratory technicians should be detail oriented and enjoy figuring out how things work. They should like problem solving and troubleshooting. For example, if you enjoy disassembling and reassembling your bicycle, tinkering with your computer, or conducting experiments in high school lab classes, you will probably enjoy being a laboratory testing technician. Laboratory technicians must have the patience to repeat a test many times, perhaps even on the same material. They must be able to follow directions carefully but also should be independent and motivated to work on their own until their assigned tasks are completed. Other important traits include good organizational and communication skills.