Chemical Laboratory Technician
What is the Chemical Laboratory Technician major?
Do you like working with your hands, solving problems and learning something new everyday? Then the chemical laboratory technician major may be for you.
In this associate’s degree program, your studies will include mathematics, communications, computer software applications, inorganic and organic chemistry. You will also learn laboratory techniques and instrumental analysis as well as studying laboratory safety, choosing the proper personal protective equipment, and how to read a material safety data sheet.
Upon conclusion of your training at BTC, you will complete an 8-week externship at a local company. There you will get the chance to apply what you have learned at school on-the-job and gain experience as a laboratory technician.
What career possibilities exist in the chemical laboratory technician field?
After graduating from the chemical laboratory technician major, you can embark on a career as a:
- a laboratory technician/technologist
- process operator
- quality control technician
- environmental technician
- design technician
- research technician
Many types of companies in the chemical industry hire our chemical laboratory technician majors, including:
- research and development
- processing
- quality control
- manufacturing
Alternatively, you can also take your laboratory experience and move into other areas including sales, marketing and information technology.
What do employers expect?
Employers require the following from a chemical laboratory technician:
- come to work every day, on-time and ready to learn
- work safely and to follow all safety and other work policies and procedures
- stand for extended periods of time
- often have to be able to lift a minimum of 50lbs
- need to be able to wear a respirator and work with chemicals
Some chemical companies will:
- administer criminal background checks and physicals
- require that you have a valid drivers license and transportation.
How do you get the experience you need to get hired?
The chemical laboratory technician major is an intensive one-year program that includes an externship at a local chemical company. You will gain hands-on experience as a chemical laboratory technician and receive an Occupational Associate’s Degree in Specialized Technology. You will have the skills you need to obtain entry-level employment.
How is the major structured?
52 week program
8:30 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday
What courses do I have to take to get my Occupational Associate’s Degree in Specialized Technology?
- Technical Mathematics
- Technical Physics
- Technical Communications
- Computer Software Applications
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Chemical Laboratory Techniques
- Instrumental Analysis
- Safety and First Aid
- Complete Three Individual Projects.
- Externship
Do you want to know more?
You are invited to attend one of our information sessions held every Monday and Wednesday morning at 9 a.m. Bidwell Training Center’s Admissions office is ready to answer any questions. Call 1-800-516-1800.
