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Biological science technician vs science technician

The differences between biological science technicians and science technicians can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a biological science technician and a science technician. Additionally, a science technician has an average salary of $35,570, which is higher than the $35,390 average annual salary of a biological science technician.

The top three skills for a biological science technician include laboratory equipment, data collection and rehabilitation. The most important skills for a science technician are lab equipment, safety regulations, and research projects.

Biological science technician vs science technician overview

Biological Science TechnicianScience Technician
Yearly salary$35,390$35,570
Hourly rate$17.01$17.10
Growth rate9%9%
Number of jobs13,80116,073
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 77%Bachelor's Degree, 69%
Average age4040
Years of experience44

What does a biological science technician do?

A biological science technician is responsible for supporting scientists in conducting laboratory experiments and examinations. Biological science technicians perform data analysis procedures, evaluate findings, and create data reports. They also ensure the cleanliness of the laboratory, including the laboratory tools and equipment, to prevent contamination that may affect the accuracy of test results. A biological science technician must have excellent scientific knowledge, especially on the application of scientific methods, assessing research studies, and other related scientific principles.

What does a science technician do?

A science technician is responsible for supporting research studies and product development processes by utilizing a scientific method approach and theories. Science technicians assist in conducting laboratory investigations, ensuring the adequacy of laboratory inventory, and inspecting the efficiency and performance of laboratory tools and equipment to prevent examination delays and potential hazards. They also write findings reports, record results, and develop accurate analysis. A science technician runs quality control procedures, interpret data, and ensuring that the investigations adhere to internal regulations and state requirements.

Biological science technician vs science technician salary

Biological science technicians and science technicians have different pay scales, as shown below.

Biological Science TechnicianScience Technician
Average salary$35,390$35,570
Salary rangeBetween $26,000 And $47,000Between $26,000 And $47,000
Highest paying CityWatertown Town, MABoston, MA
Highest paying stateMassachusettsMassachusetts
Best paying companySenesTechWayfair
Best paying industry-Government

Differences between biological science technician and science technician education

There are a few differences between a biological science technician and a science technician in terms of educational background:

Biological Science TechnicianScience Technician
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 77%Bachelor's Degree, 69%
Most common majorBiologyBiology
Most common collegeDuke UniversityDuke University

Biological science technician vs science technician demographics

Here are the differences between biological science technicians' and science technicians' demographics:

Biological Science TechnicianScience Technician
Average age4040
Gender ratioMale, 51.0% Female, 49.0%Male, 61.7% Female, 38.3%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 11.6% Unknown, 6.1% Hispanic or Latino, 14.2% Asian, 12.7% White, 53.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 2.4%Black or African American, 12.6% Unknown, 6.1% Hispanic or Latino, 13.3% Asian, 12.8% White, 52.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 2.4%
LGBT Percentage6%6%

Differences between biological science technician and science technician duties and responsibilities

Biological science technician example responsibilities.

  • Create PowerPoint and other support media for presentation of research to PhD research leads.
  • Assist in developing a genetic algorithm for generating sound recognition templates for insect calls (still ongoing).
  • Develop an image viewer design to let researchers train programs so that they can see and label insect calls
  • General laboratory work - collecting tissue sample, organization/preparation, plant seeds, greenhouse work, maintenance of plants, etc
  • Train on FDA regulations for biological materials and regulating inventory.
  • Prepare bacteria suspension for greenhouse cotton bolls and inject bacterial suspension bolls.
  • Show more

Science technician example responsibilities.

  • Identify owl species by sight and sound prompt using hoot flute and reed caller.
  • Manage daily RCRA inspections and mechanical, electrical, and electronic equipment preventive/corrective maintenance procedures.
  • Administer laboratory tests and experiments that include various assays, such as ELISA and specialize technologies.
  • Create GIS layers and a corresponding database of artifacts find at various GPS locations in and around the project site.
  • Perform DNA quantification and real-time PCR analysis for determination of different bacterial species abundance.
  • Operate under GLP, FDA, EPA, and OSHA standards and requirements.
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Biological science technician vs science technician skills

Common biological science technician skills
  • Laboratory Equipment, 10%
  • Data Collection, 7%
  • Rehabilitation, 7%
  • Scientific Data, 5%
  • USDA, 5%
  • Water Quality, 4%
Common science technician skills
  • Lab Equipment, 13%
  • Safety Regulations, 11%
  • Research Projects, 10%
  • Social Work, 7%
  • Data Entry, 4%
  • Technical Support, 4%

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