3111 — Laboratory technicians
Medium Skilled
Sources checked 26 October 2026. Match the actual duties before choosing a code.
Related job titles
What this occupation covers
Laboratory technicians carry out routine laboratory tests and checks and perform a variety of technical support functions requiring the application of established or prescribed procedures and techniques to assist scientists with their research, development, analysis and testing, and to verify the physical, chemical and other characteristics of materials and products.
Typical duties
sets up and assists with the construction and the development of scientific apparatus for experimental, demonstration or other purposes
prepares organic and inorganic material for examination and stains and fixes slides for microscope work
operates and services specialised scientific equipment, undertakes prescribed measurements and analyses and ensures that sterile conditions necessary for some equipment are maintained
records and collates data obtained from experimental work and documents all work carried out
maintains and rotates stock and supplies
disposes of chemical and biological waste safely
keeps up to date with new technical developments
Entry routes and qualifications
Entry varies from employer to employer. Entrants usually possess a degree, although entry is also possible with A-levels, GCSEs/S grades, an appropriate BTEC/SQA award or HNC/HND. Professional qualifications, NVQs/SVQs at various levels, and apprenticeships are available in some areas of work. Good eyesight, and in some cases, normal colour vision are also required.
Sponsorship information
Medium Skilled. Actual duties, sponsor, applicant, salary and any transitional or shortage-list conditions must be checked.
Immigration Salary List: 3111 Laboratory technicians – only jobs requiring 3 or more years’ related on-the-job experience. This experience must not have been gained through working illegally.. Nations: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland. Removal: 31 December 2026.
Temporary Shortage List: Laboratory technicians. Certificate of Sponsorship must be issued before 31 December 2026.
DBS assessment
No code-wide DBS assessment is assigned. Check actual duties, activities, workplace, frequency and jurisdiction. This code does not determine the level of check.
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