A laboratory technician works in scientific laboratories to support research, diagnosis, or product development. Their tasks often include preparing samples, operating and maintaining scientific equipment, conducting tests and experiments, and recording and analysing results. Laboratory technicians play a crucial role in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, and industrial labs. Attention to detail, accuracy, and a strong understanding of scientific methods are important skills for this role. Many technicians specialise in areas like medical diagnostics, chemical analysis, or environmental testing. Entry is possible through college courses, apprenticeships, or with A levels in relevant sciences.
The average salary for a laboratory technician in the UK ranges from £18,000 to £28,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are approximately 25,000 laboratory technician positions across the UK, with steady demand in both healthcare and industry.
Most laboratory technicians work 37 to 40 hours per week, often during standard office hours, though some roles may require shift work.
Supports biomedical scientists by preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and assisting with routine laboratory tests in hospitals or clinics.
Works in food safety and quality control laboratories, testing food products for contaminants and ensuring they meet safety standards.
Analyses soil, water, and air samples to monitor pollution and help protect the environment, often working for environmental agencies or consultancies.
Focus on science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at GCSE and A-level.
Laboratory Technicians need a strong foundation in science. Most jobs require at least GCSEs in science subjects, and many prefer A-levels or equivalent qualifications. Concentrate on practical work in your lessons and try to understand the scientific principles behind experiments.
Consider further study such as a BTEC National Diploma in Applied Science, A-levels, or an apprenticeship.
Qualifications like BTECs, A-levels, or Scottish Highers in science provide practical lab experience. Alternatively, an apprenticeship as a Laboratory Technician is another good route, combining work and study.
Gain hands-on experience by volunteering, work experience, or part-time jobs in laboratories.
Many colleges, universities, and even local hospitals or research centres offer work experience placements. This will help you become familiar with laboratory equipment, health and safety procedures, and day-to-day tasks.
Study and practise health and safety procedures for laboratory work.
Understanding COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) and basic first aid is important. Many employers value applicants with a good knowledge of safe working practices in the lab.
Look for Laboratory Technician positions and apprenticeships within hospitals, schools, universities, and private companies.
Check websites like NHS Jobs, local authority job boards, and scientific recruitment agencies. Tailor your CV to highlight your science qualifications and any relevant experience.
Consider further study or professional registration to progress your career.
Once employed, you can work towards higher qualifications such as an HNC, HND, or a degree in a scientific subject. You may also wish to register with professional bodies like the Science Council as a Registered Science Technician.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
Click on any card to be redirected to their vacancy page.
MYHEALTH PHARMACY LTD
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with My Health Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
Healthways Chemist
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Healthways Chemist. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) Apprenticeship Standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
Arkle Pharmacy
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Arkle Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) Apprenticeship Standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
Meraj Pharmacy
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Meraj Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
FLYPHARM LTD
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Blue Dew Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
ROSE HEALTHCARE LTD
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Rose Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) Apprenticeship Standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
TOWER Pharmacy
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Tower Pharmacy. You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
TRIO PHARMA LIMITED
( Added 26 Jul 2024 - 1 position available )
An opportunity has arisen with Trio Pharmacy.You will be taking in and handing out prescriptions, dispensing and selling over the counter medicines. You will work towards a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician (integrated) apprenticeship standard.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 30 Nov 2025
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Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
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These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
The role of a Laboratory Technician is most closely aligned with the Laboratory Technician in the provided list. Both positions involve conducting scientific tests, analysing samples, and supporting research or industrial processes within a controlled environment, requiring similar technical skills and knowledge of laboratory procedures.
You can get into this job through:
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a scientific subject to work as a laboratory technician.
Subjects include:
You'll usually need:
You could take a college course to help improve your chances of finding a trainee lab assistant position.
You could do a course such as:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply for a Laboratory Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship or a Technician Scientist Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship.
These apprenticeships can take between 2 and 3 years to complete.
You'll usually need:
You can apply for work as a lab technician if you have experience in a:
You can register with a professional body linked to your area of work for career development and training opportunities.
You can find out more about becoming a laboratory technician from the Science Council and Health Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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