How do I become a laboratory technician
Get qualified to work as a laboratory technician with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Laboratory Technician.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Laboratory Technician generally earns $1,450 per week ($75,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
This industry has experienced stable employment numbers over the last five years. There are currently 6,200 people working in this sector in Australia and many of them specialise as a Laboratory Technician. Laboratory Technicians usually work in larger towns and cities where laboratory facilities are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
If you’re planning a career as a Laboratory Technician, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement. You could also study a Certificate III in Laboratory Skills or a Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques. A Diploma of Laboratory Technology would also be suitable.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What can you do with a Certificate III in Pathology Collection?
4th November 2021
What does an Occupational Therapist do?
15th September 2022All laboratory technician courses
- 22545VIC Course in Biomanufacturing Pathways
- 22608VIC Certificate IV in Science
- 52896WA Advanced Diploma of Civil and Structural Engineering (Materials Testing)
- AHC41516 Certificate IV in Seed Testing
- Associate Degree in Applied Science
- Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) (Chemistry)
- Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) (Genetics)
- Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) (Physics)
- Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology (Viticulture and Winemaking)
- Bachelor of Biomedical and Exercise Science
- Bachelor of Biosecurity Science
- Bachelor of Science (Forensic Biology and Toxicology)
- Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours)
- Diploma in Science
- FBP40421 Certificate IV in Food Science and Technology
- HLTSS00064 Infection Control Skill Set
- Master of Science (Biological Sciences)
- Master of Science (Bioscience)
- Master of Science (Biotechnology)
- Master of Science (Chemistry)
- MSA30208 Certificate III in Manufacturing Technology
- MSL20118 Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement
- MSL20122 Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement
- MSL30118 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills
- MSL30122 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills
- MSL40118 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
- MSL40122 Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
- MSL50118 Diploma of Laboratory Technology
- MSL50122 Diploma of Laboratory Technology
- MSL50122 Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Chemistry)
- MSL50122 Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology)
- MSL60118 Advanced Diploma of Laboratory Operations
- MSL60122 Advanced Diploma of Laboratory Management
- MSM30318 Certificate III in Manufactured Mineral Products
- NWP30222 Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Wastewater Treatment)
- Undergraduate Certificate in Science
Laboratory Technician careers
A Laboratory Technician performs a specialist role at a medical or research laboratory. You might use specialist equipment or carry out a range of testing and research procedures. Laboratory Technicians may be involved in research projects or provide assistance during regular laboratory work. You could be employed by a large organisation such as a hospital or by a specialist research facility.
Laboratory Technicians must have excellent attention to detail and strong observational abilities. It’s important that you can communicate well and work as part of a team. Laboratory Technicians must be safety-focused and able to follow correct procedures during their work. You should be able to work to a deadline and perform your tasks with great accuracy.
