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The differences between manufacturing scientists 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 manufacturing scientist and a science technician. Additionally, a manufacturing scientist has an average salary of $87,366, which is higher than the $35,570 average annual salary of a science technician.
The top three skills for a manufacturing scientist include chemistry, continuous improvement and QC. The most important skills for a science technician are lab equipment, safety regulations, and research projects.
| Manufacturing Scientist | Science Technician | |
| Yearly salary | $87,366 | $35,570 |
| Hourly rate | $42.00 | $17.10 |
| Growth rate | 17% | 9% |
| Number of jobs | 74,018 | 16,073 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 76% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Average age | 41 | 40 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
A manufacturing scientist specializes in conducting experiments to develop products and procedures according to its product development needs. It is their duty to understand the purpose and vision of the projects, perform research and analysis, coordinate with clients and experts, and keep records of all procedures and findings. They must also identify market needs, studying feedback from clients. Furthermore, as a manufacturing scientist, it is essential to maintain an active communication line with staff for an efficient and successful workflow.
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.
Manufacturing scientists and science technicians have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Manufacturing Scientist | Science Technician | |
| Average salary | $87,366 | $35,570 |
| Salary range | Between $62,000 And $122,000 | Between $26,000 And $47,000 |
| Highest paying City | Novato, CA | Boston, MA |
| Highest paying state | California | Massachusetts |
| Best paying company | Lumileds | Wayfair |
| Best paying industry | Health Care | Government |
There are a few differences between a manufacturing scientist and a science technician in terms of educational background:
| Manufacturing Scientist | Science Technician | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 76% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Most common major | Biology | Biology |
| Most common college | University of Southern California | Duke University |
Here are the differences between manufacturing scientists' and science technicians' demographics:
| Manufacturing Scientist | Science Technician | |
| Average age | 41 | 40 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 45.6% Female, 54.4% | Male, 61.7% Female, 38.3% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 6.2% Unknown, 4.0% Hispanic or Latino, 9.4% Asian, 26.5% White, 53.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% | 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 Percentage | 8% | 6% |