Biotechnology (2158)
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At a Glance
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This degree program is designed for students who will seek employment as biotechnology research technicians, biological technicians, cell culture technicians or biotechnology manufacturing technicians, or for persons wanting career advancement already employed in the field. |
Employment Opportunities |
The program prepares the student for employment in entry-level biotechnology positions. Students can work in the biotechnology industry, pharmaceutical manufacturing and related industries.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Biological technicians held about 64,000 jobs in 2004. About 27 percent of biological technicians also worked in professional, scientific, or technical services firms; most other biological technicians worked in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing or for Federal, State, or local governments.
According to Choices Planner there were 351 people employed as Biological/Agricultural Technicians in Florida in 2002.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
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Job Outlook |
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of science technicians is expected to increase about as fast as average for all occupations through the year 2014. The continued growth of scientific and medical research—particularly research related to biotechnology—as well as the development and production of technical products should stimulate demand for science technicians in many industries. The increase in the number of biological technicians will be about as fast as average, as the growing number of agricultural and medicinal products developed with the use of biotechnology techniques will boost demand for these workers. Also, stronger competition among pharmaceutical companies and an aging population are expected to contribute to the need for innovative and improved drugs, further spurring demand for biological technicians. The fastest employment growth of biological technicians should occur in the pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing industry and educational services.
According to the America's Career InfoNet web site the job growth for Biological Technicians is estimated to be 25% in the state of Florida.
America's Career InfoNet
Occupational Outlook Handbook
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Salary Information |
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly earnings of Biological technician was $15.97 in May 2004. Using the hourly earning a person in a full time 40 hour a week position would make $33,217 annually
According to the America's Career InfoNet web site the median annual earnings for a Biological Technicians is $30,800
America's Career InfoNet
Occupational Outlook Handbook
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| Special Skills or Qualifications Needed |
There are several ways to qualify for a job as a science technician. Many employers prefer applicants who have at least 2 years of specialized training or an associate’s degree in applied science or science-related technology.
You must have a solid background in applied basic chemistry, physics, and math is vital. Because computers often are used in research and development laboratories, technicians should have strong computer skills, especially in computer modeling. Communication skills also are important: technicians often are required to report their findings both orally and in writing. In addition, technicians should be able to work well with others, because teamwork is common. Organizational ability, an eye for detail, and skill in interpreting scientific results are important as well. A high mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and analytical thinking are all important characteristics of science technicians. According to a Palm Beach Post article from Sunday, May 14, 2006 titled “Plan your future on the cutting edge” be well rounded in all subject ares as well as gain experience in the industry through work-based learning opportunities such as internships, work study and job shadowing.
Bureau of Labor Statistics
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos115.htm#earnings
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| Career Path Notes |
Many programs have transfer agreements with other colleges and universities that allow students to transfer course or program credit into a four-year program. For information on transfer agreements, visit www.pbcc.edu/transfer.xml. |
Career Planning Suggestions for Success |
Thoroughly research the occupation and talk with Biological technicians in industries of interest to you. The PBCC Career Consultants Network may have the name of a person you can contact. Refer to the Career Center information listed below. For More Information on courses, requirements, costs, program length and location, view the Academic Program Sheet: http://www.pbcc.edu/x3223.xml?id=136
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| Sources of Additional Information |
Occupational Outlook Handbook
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