Science Technicians (ANZSCO 3114) play a crucial role in performing tests and experiments and providing technical support functions in various scientific fields. Their expertise assists with research, design, production, and teaching in chemistry, earth sciences, life sciences, and physical sciences.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations within the Science Technicians unit group require a level of skill that is commensurate with specific qualifications and experience. In Australia, this typically includes an AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma, or Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2). In New Zealand, a NZQF Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2) is the equivalent qualification.

It is important to note that at least three years of relevant experience can substitute for the formal qualifications mentioned above. In some cases, additional on-the-job training and experience may be necessary alongside the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

• Preparing materials for experimentation, such as freezing and slicing specimens and mixing chemicals
• Collecting information and samples
• Conducting field and laboratory experiments, tests, and analyses
• Presenting results in graphic and written form through maps, charts, sketches, diagrams, and reports
• Performing routine mathematical calculations and measurements
• Controlling the quality and quantity of laboratory supplies by testing samples and monitoring usage
• Checking, calibrating, and maintaining test equipment
• Participating in fabricating, installing, and modifying equipment to meet critical standards
• Preparing experiments and demonstrations for science classes

Occupations:

• 311411 Chemistry Technician
• 311412 Earth Science Technician
• 311413 Life Science Technician
• 311414 School Laboratory Technician
• 311415 Hydrographer
• 311499 Science Technicians not elsewhere classified

311411 Chemistry Technician

Alternative Title: Chemistry Technical Officer

A Chemistry Technician performs laboratory tests on organic and inorganic chemicals. They analyze test data and provide technical support to Chemists or Chemical Engineers in various industries such as fuels, agricultural products, food, pharmaceuticals, paints, metals, plastics, textiles, detergents, paper, fertilizers, and cosmetics. This occupation requires a skill level of 2.

Specializations within this occupation include Chemical Instrumentation Officer, Chemical Process Analyst, Chemistry Laboratory Technician, Dairy Laboratory Technician, Petroleum Laboratory Technician, and Sugar Laboratory Assistant.

311412 Earth Science Technician

Alternative Title: Earth Science Technical Officer

An Earth Science Technician collects and tests earth and water samples. They record observations and analyze data to support Geologists or Geophysicists in their work. This occupation requires a skill level of 2.

Specializations within this occupation include Earth Science Laboratory Technician, Geochemical Laboratory Technician, Geological Technical Officer, Geoscience Laboratory Technician, Meteorological Observer, Seismology Technical Officer, Soil Science Technical Officer, and Water Resources Technical Officer.

311413 Life Science Technician

Alternative Title: Life Science Technical Officer

A Life Science Technician identifies and collects living organisms. They conduct field and laboratory studies to support Life Scientists or Environmental Scientists. This occupation requires a skill level of 2.

Specializations within this occupation include Biological Technical Officer, Botanical Technical Officer, Ecological Technical Officer, Environmental Technical Officer, Forestry Technical Officer, Forestry Technician, Wood Technologist, and Zoology Technical Officer.

311414 School Laboratory Technician

A School Laboratory Technician prepares experiments and demonstrations, makes up solutions, prepares slides, orders books and equipment, and tidies up laboratories. They provide support in teaching chemistry, earth sciences, life sciences, and physical sciences. This occupation requires a skill level of 2.

311415 Hydrographer

A Hydrographer measures, analyzes, and maintains the flow and quality of water in rivers, lakes, stormwater, and sewage. They also survey and map oceans, seas, and rivers. This occupation requires a skill level of 2.

311499 Science Technicians nec

This occupation group covers Science Technicians not elsewhere classified. It includes various specializations within the field. The skill level required for these occupations is 2.

Occupations within this group include Calibration Technician, Drug and Alcohol Tester, Fibre Technologist, Fingerprint Expert, and Textile Technical Officer.