Why You Should Start Looking Into a Biotechnology Lab Technician Certification
Posted November 7th, 2017
Biotechnology is a hot field and companies throughout the country need skilled professionals to handle many of the laboratory-oriented duties, like working with cell cultures, testing DNA, and even splicing genes. In fact, demand for biotechnology lab technicians is expected to grow over the coming years, with a total of a 10 percent increase between 2016 and 2026, making it an excellent time to pursue a career in this exciting industry.
But, to get your foot in the door, you’ll need the proper education. Here’s some information about biotechnology lab technician certifications and why now is a great time to acquire one.
Focused Knowledge
In many cases, certificates are incredibly focused on the specialty area being studied. This means you’ll spend more time learning about topics like biochemistry and microbiology without having to meet some of the other educational requirements associated traditional degrees.
Since the knowledge area is highly targeted, you may also be able to complete a certification in less time than is required to finish an associate’s degree, which can be a boon for someone who is hoping to start their new career quickly.
Hands-On Experience
While pursuing your certification, you’ll receive ample opportunities to practice your skills while learning in a laboratory environment. This means you will have substantial hands-on experience that is valuable to employers.
For a biotechnology lab technician certification, you’ll spend time focused on everything from measurement techniques to quality control. Participation in relevant experiments is also common, making the learning as engaging as it is helpful to your career. Additionally, safety will also be a priority, so you will receive a significant amount of guidance regarding how to work safely in a laboratory environment.
Strong Salary
Biotechnology lab technicians have the opportunity to earn competitive salaries and, with full-time employment, can have access to comprehensive benefits packages. As of 2016, the median annual wage for biological technicians reached $42,520, with the top 10 percent of earners in the field receiving salaries of nearly $70,000 per year.
This means that professionals that hold the proper certifications have the chance to build a lucrative career in the field, especially if they are interested in staying in the industry for the long-term.
Meaningful Work
While the precise duties associated with a biotechnology lab technician position can vary, you may have the opportunity to work on exciting projects that can benefit humanity. Projects can focus on anything from finding new treatments for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and cancer to creating new biofuels.
Scientific advancements that use the work of biotechnology lab technicians have the potential to improve the lives of the masses, which can make the job particularly inspiring to those employed in the field.
Ultimately, getting a certification is the first step needed to help you begin your career as a biotechnology lab technician. If you would like to learn more or are seeking a new job opportunity, the professionals at Bayside Solutions can help. Contact us to speak with one of our team members today and see how our services can benefit you.
