• An interest in science
• Can analyze data & do precision work
• Can document & communicate test results accurately
• Can make visual comparisons
• Can follow research procedures & standards
• Good manual dexterity
• Attention to detail

Salary Range:

Related Occupations:

• Biochemist
• Biologist
• Cell culture technician
• Chemist
• Geneticist
• Microbiologist
• Biochemical Engineer
• Medical laboratory assistant

Biotechnicians help biotechnical researchers and biologists isolate, analyze and identify the chemicals found in plants, animals, and humans.  They use live organisms, to produce drugs, fertilizers and new chemicals for medicine, food processing, and energy and chemical production.  They may help find a cure for cancer, the common cold or HIV.  Biotechnicians do routine scientific work and conduct supervised tests on biochemical products.  Cell culture technicians do specialized laboratory work for biotech companies.

Experience:
Employers prefer two years of specialized training or experience at a community college or four-year institution.

Skills - Knowledge of:

• Scientific principles
• Research techniques
• How to operate laboratory, testing, & field equipment
• Computers, computer software
• How to interpret computer printouts

Employment Outlook:
Start-up biotech companies in San Diego and the San Francisco Bay area offer excellent job prospects for qualified biotechnicians.  Some 12,060 science technicians (including biological, agricultural, chemical and food technologists) are expected to be employed in California over the next 10 years.

Where the Jobs Are:

• Biotechnology firms
• Research laboratories
• Biochemical manufacturers
• Bioengineering companies
• Agricultural product manufacturers

Training Available:
San Diego City College:
Professor
Office:
Telephone: (619)