Laboratory Technician
Run experiments, prepare samples, and maintain lab equipment for research or industry.
This UK laboratory technician career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £20,000 - £26,000
- Mid-career salary
- £28,000 - £38,000
- Senior salary
- £40,000 - £55,000
- Work environment
- Lab, often shift-based
- Time to entry
- 1 - 2 years
- Degree required
- Not required - science A-levels or BTEC
- Category
- Education, Science and Research
What a Laboratory Technician does
Run experiments, prepare samples, and maintain lab equipment for research or industry.
- Biomedical Scientist (NHS) - Test patient samples to support diagnosis - regulated role.
- QC Analyst - Test products in pharma, food, or chemicals against spec.
How to become a Laboratory Technician
- Look up Laboratory Technician roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Laboratory Technician - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Lab procedures
- Attention to detail
- Record keeping
- Following protocols