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Laboratory Assistant - Career Profile |
Career OverviewIf you are interested in working in the research field a position as a laboratory assistant may be just what you have been looking for. A laboratory assistant is responsible for setting up the equipment need in various experiments and lab procedures in all areas of the biotechnology field.
The job of the lab assistant is very critical as they are key in helping the researches have all the materials correctly placed and set up before and during the various experiments and procedures. The laboratory assistant must be able to make educated decisions, follow written and verbal directions as well as work independently without direct supervision.
A laboratory assistant’s job doesn’t end with setting up the equipment however. They often work directly with scientists and other researchers to complete the experiment or trial, gather data, record progress and procedures used as well as document outcomes and make suggestions for future revisions.
The laboratory assistant can also be involved in data analysis and development of reports and information that is provided to stakeholders, researchers and the general public.
Laboratory assistant are usually in charge of the physical space of the lab. They are required to complete appropriate sterilization and sanitation of the area, understand safety procedures and protocols for various chemicals and equipment, as well as keeping inventory of the equipment in the lab.
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Career RequirementsA laboratory assistant must have at least an Associates or two-year degree in a biotechnology or science background, in addition to some lab experience and training. There are several certification standards that laboratory assistant may have to complete depending on the area of research that they are working in. FDA regulations must be followed and many laboratory assistants voluntarily certify themselves through the associations for Clinical Laboratory Sciences.
Many laboratory assistants are Bachelor level or higher students that are working in a laboratory to gain experience prior to post graduate studies and work.
Laboratory assistants should demonstrate good communication skills, and understanding of various scientific procedures and principles, computer skills as well as an ability to stay within deadlines and to work on a strict timeline.
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Job OutlookAs with most career options in the biotechnology field the outlook for careers in the laboratory assistant field is positive and steadily increasing. As more private and government labs and research facilities are opened across the country the demand for qualified and experience laboratory assistants increases.
Many people use the position of laboratory assistant as an entry level position into the field of biotechnology so there is a fairly steady turn over of staff. Most positions are in larger urban areas but some of the manufacturing and agricultural research facilities are in smaller, more rural areas.
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Career TrackThere are many areas of specialization open to a biotechnology laboratory assistant. It is possible to become a certified calibration technician to be able to adjust and monitor the accuracy of laboratory equipment.
With a bit of experience and additional training it is very possible for a laboratory assistant to become a research assistant, data technician or even specialized assistant in a field such as genetics, medicines or disease control.
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CompensationSince there are many different industries that use laboratory assistants the average salary varies from field to field. Small to medium sized hospitals and research facilities usually have an average yearly income for laboratory assistants between $32,000 and $39,000.
This is slightly lower than pharmaceuticals and larger hospitals that hire at between $34,000 and $42,000. Years of experience, specialized training and additional certifications and educational experience also play a part in the starting salaries in most agencies.
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