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Biological Technicians
SOC: 19-4021 • Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
What They Do
Biological Technicians typically perform the following tasks:
• Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
• Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
• Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
• Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings.
• Provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers working in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, resource management, biology, and health sciences.
• Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities.
• Input data into databases.
• Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.
• Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
• Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas.
• Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with set standards.
• Place orders for laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Participate in the research, development, or manufacturing of medicinal and pharmaceutical preparations.
• Feed livestock or laboratory animals.
• Conduct standardized biological, microbiological or biochemical tests and laboratory analyses to evaluate the quantity or quality of physical or chemical substances in food or other products.
• Examine animals and specimens to detect the presence of disease or other problems.
• Measure or weigh compounds and solutions for use in testing or animal feed.
Career Video
Video from CareerOneStop, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor
Key facts
Median: $52,000
Employment: 82,700
Growth (2024–2034):
+3.0%
Education:
Bachelor's degree
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Intelligence Metrics
Automation Risk Assessment
Low RiskWork-Life Balance Score
7.5/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
6.2
Realistic
9.4
Investigative
5.6
Artistic
6.4
Social
4.8
Enterprising
6.4
Conventional
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Top Skills
Analytical skills
Communication skills
Detail oriented
Observational skills
Technical skills
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 10,680
- Massachusetts 8,610
- New York 5,040
- Washington 4,140
- Maryland 3,780
- Texas 3,580
- Pennsylvania 3,160
- Florida 3,030
- Ohio 2,520
- Oregon 2,510
BLS OEWS data (2024-05)
Regional Wage Variations
-
California +23%$64,020
-
Massachusetts +25%$65,020
-
New York +13%$58,750
-
Washington 1%$52,680
-
Maryland -6%$49,110
-
Texas -6%$48,830
-
Pennsylvania -8%$47,820
-
Florida -10%$46,840
-
Ohio -4%$49,910
-
Oregon -8%$47,690
BLS OEWS state wage data
Top Metropolitan Areas
New York-Newark-Jersey City
Employment: High
Growth: +3.2%
Los Angeles-Long Beach
Employment: High
Growth: +2.8%
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Employment: Medium
Growth: +1.5%
Dallas-Fort Worth
Employment: Medium
Growth: +4.1%
San Francisco-Oakland
Employment: High
Growth: +2.3%
Based on BLS metropolitan area data
Industries with Highest Concentrations
Scientific research and development services
85%
Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
70%
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state
55%
Regional Job Market Outlook
Strong
West Coast
Stable
Northeast
Growing
South