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Chemistry lab technicians work in healthcare, pharmaceutical research, law enforcement, and manufacturing. An associate’s degree in Applied Science is required, with an emphasis on biological and chemical courses. Hands-on experience is gained through internships or on-the-job training. Continuing education and specialization can lead to higher salaries and positions.
Chemistry lab technicians work closely with chemists and chemical engineers in a variety of areas such as healthcare, pharmaceutical research, law enforcement and manufacturing. A two-year associate’s degree is usually required for entry-level positions. Hands-on experience in the field can be gained from an internship program, postgraduate training, or on-the-job training. Some states in the United States require lab technicians to be certified.
An individual can become a chemistry lab technician with an associate degree in Applied Science. This degree can be earned at many professional schools, community colleges or universities. Due to the need for extensive practical training, this degree is generally not available as an online option.
The education required to become a chemistry lab technician can vary from program to program, but all generally include an emphasis on biological and chemical courses. Other areas of study may include pharmaceutical analysis, microbiology and physics. If a specialization is desired, courses may include additional studies in forensic or environmental sciences.
Laboratory work also requires the use of specialized equipment. An individual who wants to become a chemistry lab technician should typically look for a program that provides a lot of hands-on experience. Some schools work with community employers to offer internships. Companies may offer internships or a training program to a student, offering the opportunity to become a chemical lab technician at the facility once the training is over.
A chemistry lab is particularly affected by advances in technology. As more automation and more detailed measurements are introduced into the lab, lab work processes often have to adapt. One way to advance in the field is to make a commitment to become a chemistry lab technician who can readily adapt to changes in the industry. An in-depth understanding of current industry software and instrumentation can be the key to commercialization in the field.
As with many other jobs involved in the sciences, continuing education may be required to keep up with scientific advances. Professional organizations and schools in the area often hold workshops or seminars on new or specialized topics. Additionally, online courses may be available for professionals who want to refresh past knowledge or gain more knowledge in a specific area.
Finally, a bachelor’s degree or additional certification can be helpful in gaining a higher salary or position. Most chemistry lab technologist positions, for example, require a four-year degree or equivalent experience. In general, laboratory technologists work with more complex processes and may be responsible for a greater amount of analytical and decision-making work.
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