What Does A Laboratory Technician Do?

WHAT DOES A LABORATORY TECHNICIAN DO?

Published: Jun 24, 2025 - The Laboratory Technician conducts quality testing on raw materials, in-process, and finished products, prepares statistical charts, and communicates results to support manufacturing operations. This role includes maintaining and calibrating laboratory equipment, performing advanced analytical investigations, supporting root cause analysis, and ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards. The technician also requires document control, team collaboration, and the use of safety monitors and equipment, such as forklifts, to maintain a safe and efficient work environment.

A Review of Professional Skills and Functions for Laboratory Technician

1. Laboratory Technician Duties

Solution Development: Develop solutions based on requirements and tasks under supervision
Design Support: Supports the development of well-documented design that adheres to accepted standards and practices
Technical Collaboration: Collaborate with peers on technical design, work estimation and implementation based on tasks
Document Creation: Produces technical documents such as drawings and standard operating procedures
Stakeholder Engagement: Utilize existing or establish new relationships with AF flight and sustainment communities to aid in prototype screening of personnel protection concepts and gathering requirements definition
Equipment Maintenance: Ensure test equipment and laboratory apparatus are fully functional at all times and diagnostic equipment is in current calibration
Testing Assistance: Assist laboratory personnel with various test configurations and measurements

2. Laboratory Technician Details

Sample Preparation: Prepare a sample for Analytical Chemistry/Physical laboratory testing
Quality Sampling: Perform sampling for quality testing at the QC and Print Labs
Data Entry: Collect and input test or measurement data electronically
Data Analysis: Analyze process data and SPC charts to detect out-of-control situations
Process Improvement: Initiate or implement Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing and 5S projects to improve productivity, automation, quality and safety in the laboratory environment
Technical Support: Provide support to Ink Chemists, Engineering, and Supply Chain initiatives such as raw material testing, cost reduction and quality improvement projects, and troubleshooting
Deviation Escalation: Escalate deviations in materials, equipment, process or utilities that may affect laboratory capacity, quality, or safety
Shift Handover: Perform day-to-day handover of Analytical Laboratory status and issues to the next shift

3. Laboratory Technician Responsibilities

Sample Analysis: Support the smooth running of the Laboratory by assisting in the analysis of potable samples
Sampling Support: Provide support to the sampling staff and couriers and contribute to the running of the sample reception area within the Laboratory
Regulation Compliance: Adhere to all relevant regulations, legislation and certifications
Quality Adherence: Understand and adhere to the Laboratory Quality System and the instructions therein
Public Protection: Understand the importance of the role in effective monitoring of quality for the protection of public health
Logistical Support: Provide logistical support to the laboratory, receiving and logging in samples to the company's LIMS system and ensuring sample bottles are stored in the correct location and under the correct conditions
Subcontract Management: Facilitate, prepare and dispatch all subcontract analysis
Sample Disposal: Assist in the disposal of samples once the analysis is complete, in line with agreed procedures
Stock Management: Manage stock levels of sample bottles and basic departmental consumables
Customer Communication: Interface directly with Customers and administer the Laboratory Enquiries Service

4. Laboratory Technician Job Summary

Batch Execution: Work closely and cross-functionally with internal colleagues on the Research and CMC teams to plan and execute batches of products for R&D, GLP, and GMP studies
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with Graybug’s quality systems, SOPs, cGxPs, and regulatory compliance
Inventory Handling: Handle inventory count, receive packages/raw materials, and request new material
Lab Maintenance: Clean and maintain laboratory space, glassware, and manufacturing equipment as well as the assembly and disassembly of manufacturing equipment
Data Recording: Record, analyze, and present data both orally and in writing, as well as keep a well-organized notebook and logbooks as required by Graybug’s Quality System
Material Preparation: Prepare raw materials, solutions, and reagents based on the production schedule
Waste Handling: Handle waste and store it properly for regularly scheduled waste pickups

5. Laboratory Technician Accountabilities

Product Validation: Conduct all lab and control testing/calculations, validations and COA’s and using thorough analysis, determine if the product is within proper boundaries
Data Management: Maintain all lab data records, databases and trial information for easy accessibility
Trial Coordination: Coordination of internal trials with Planning, Quality and Manufacturing, and with Sales for occasional external field testing with customers
Compliance Verification: Provide Master Data material creation and food law compliance inputs and verification
Equipment Maintenance: Ensure all lab equipment is in working condition and all cleaning and routine maintenance and calibration are conducted
CTQ Testing: Interact with Manufacturing, Customer and Sales/Marketing to determine critical to quality (CTQ) test procedures and implement and train accordingly
Result Communication: Proactively interact with Manufacturing and Sales and Marketing, and other plant personnel to communicate test results, recommend corrective action, and provide guidance on quality control issues
Audit Support: Assist in product, process and system audits

6. Laboratory Technician Functions

Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety guidelines, including the appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Specimen Processing: Follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting, and maintaining records of patient test results
Sample Collection: Perform oral and nasal swabbing
Quality Control: Use quality control policies to document all quality control activities, instruments, and procedural calibrations, and maintenance performed
Policy Application: Apply established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels
Corrective Documentation: Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance
High Complexity Testing: Perform high complexity testing only under the onsite, direct supervision of a general supervisor

7. Laboratory Technician Job Description

Safety Compliance: Carry out all scientific support activities by Health and Safety guidelines and local agreements
Procedure Support: Support the set-up and continuation of regular protein science procedures
Glassware Cleaning: Ensure that all relevant glass washing and cleaning tasks are completed
Record Maintenance: Maintain and update records for equipment servicing and routine experiments, along with any other relevant administrative tasks
Stock Replenishment: Maintenance of point of use (PoUs) Kanban stores by daily replenishment and stock ordering
KPI Reporting: Provide key metrics in line with relevant KPIs within defined SLA’s

8. Laboratory Technician Overview

Lab Testing: Independent, punctual, and technically correct execution of the work in the laboratory using HPLC, GC, and wet chemical methods
GMP Compliance: Ensure compliance with GMP, GSU regulations
Equipment Maintenance: Maintenance of equipment and facilities
Information Flow: Ensure information flow (e.g., internal, external, team/laboratory group, customers)
Training Participation: Participation in training and further education according to the training plan
Sampling Execution: Assure the sampling of mixed compound and calendared material at the frequency as per the plant Quality Management System (QMS)
Result Evaluation: Record and evaluate test results and report acceptance or rejection by the QMS using the Continental Lab System
Material Analysis: Testing and analysis of raw materials and finished products

9. Laboratory Technician Details and Accountabilities

Equipment Cleaning: Performs daily monitoring and cleaning of equipment and applicable facilities
Media Preparation: Prepares in-house media and reagents
Lab Techniques: Understands and performs the following laboratory techniques - aseptic technique, light and fluorescent microscopy and reagent preparation
SOP Review: Reviews Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and updates
Assay Execution: Conduct Ames, Chromosome Aberration, Mouse Lymphoma and Mouse Micronucleus assays independently
Dose Preparation: Prepare doses for pharmaceutical assays
Cell Culture: Maintain and prepare mammalian cell cultures according to WuXi AppTec Standard Operating Procedures
Chemical Safety: Understand the proper and safe use of hazardous chemicals

10. Laboratory Technician Tasks

Sample Preparation: Working in the laboratory, assisting in the preparation of soil/water samples
Sample Extraction: Undertaking a variety of extractions in preparation for analysis
Basic Analysis: Undertaking basic analysis following standard procedures
Record Maintenance: Maintaining accurate records, calibrating equipment and general housekeeping
LIMS Reporting: Reporting of results using LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System)
Solution Development: Develop solutions based on requirements and assigned tasks under supervision
Design Support: Supports the development of a well-documented design that adheres to accepted standards and practices
Technical Collaboration: Collaborate with peers on technical design, work estimation and implementation based on assigned tasks

11. Laboratory Technician Roles

Buffer Preparation: Preparing buffers and solutions
Gel Electrophoresis: Performing gel electrophoresis and spotting of cell samples
Product Aliquoting: Product aliquoting, including probe and reagents
Device Labelling: Labelling and preparation of glass devices
Workplace Maintenance: Cleaning, sterilising and generally maintaining a clean and organised working environment
Product Handling: Tasks relating to the production process such as final product assembly, booking in and unpacking of warehouse stock and assisting with shipment of finished goods
Process Compliance: Following processes and procedures in the Cytocell quality system and documenting tasks using approved ISO compliant documentation
Issue Reporting: Reporting non-conformances or safety-related issues using approved procedures

12. Laboratory Technician Additional Details

Specimen Processing: Follow the laboratory’s procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results
Testing Records: Maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens
Quality Control: Adhere to the laboratory’s quality control policies, document all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed
Performance Compliance: Follow the laboratory’s established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory’s established acceptable levels of performance
Safety Compliance: Adhere to safety guidelines, including the appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Problem Identification: Identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and either correcting the problems or immediately notifying the general supervisor, technical supervisor, clinical consultant, or director
Corrective Actions: Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory’s established performance specifications
Complex Testing: Perform high complexity testing only under the onsite, direct supervision of a general supervisor qualified under Sec. 493.1461

13. Laboratory Technician Essential Functions

Quality Monitoring: Determine, record, and report the quality of raw materials, in-process, and finished products to support all manufacturing operations
Data Analysis: Use data to generate SPC charts, interpret results, and communicate findings effectively
Task Management: Schedule and adjust assignments independently to accommodate shifting priorities and meet customer demands
Equipment Maintenance: Maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and calibrate laboratory equipment for optimal performance
Special Testing: Conduct non-routine testing and advanced data analysis to meet unique customer information requirements
Root Cause Support: Provide feedback to operations by linking quality and process, assisting in investigations and corrective actions
Compliance Management: Maintain accurate records and systems in line with quality, environmental, safety, and health standards
Safety and Logistics: Operate a fork truck for reagent transport and perform plant-wide safety checks to protect personnel

14. Laboratory Technician Role Purpose

Specimen Handling: Manipulate clinical specimens such as urine and blood for laboratory analysis
Microscope Operation: Operate conventional and digital microscopes accurately for sample evaluation
Pipette Techniques: Perform sample dilutions and aliquoting using pipettes by written protocols
Documentation and QC: Document procedures and conduct quality control to ensure accurate and compliant results
V&V Support: Assist in verification and validation (V&V) data collection, including receiving, recording, and processing samples across multiple instruments

15. Laboratory Technician General Responsibilities

Test Execution: Performs DVP, PVP, and IPR tests as required and documents results in JC and AJ
QFD Coordination: Prepares and coordinates Quality Function Deployment activities
Equipment Management: Operates apparatus per manuals, ensuring they are orderly and serviceable
Training Support: Assists in training Junior Laboratory Engineers in routine production testing
Nonstandard Testing: Cooperates with authorities on custom testing based on specific requirements
Audit Preparation: Supports lab readiness for customer and quality audits, adhering to TS/ISO 16949 and ISO 17025 standards
Task Compliance: Executes assigned duties per supervisor guidance within role boundaries
Safety Adherence: Follows occupational safety, internal policies, and relevant legal regulations

16. Laboratory Technician Key Accountabilities

Technical Support: Provide technical and pre-analytic assistance across laboratory operations and client services.
Specimen Processing: Perform specimen evaluation, accessioning, sorting, labeling, and storage to ensure accurate workflow.
Data Entry: Assign identification numbers with precision and timeliness for efficient sample tracking.
System Operation: Execute basic pre-analytical and post-analytical tasks using the Automation System.
Communication: Interact with hospital and clinic staff regarding specimen handling and ordering requirements.
Customer Service: Maintain a professional image while managing inquiries via phone, email, written communication, and in person.
Exception Handling: Address specimen problems and follow up on outstanding or irregular cases.
Cross-Department Liaison: Serve as a communication bridge between customers and internal hospital departments.

17. Laboratory Technician Roles and Details

Laboratory Testing: Perform analyses on used oils, coolants, and fuels in accordance with ASTM methods to ensure consistency and accuracy.
Turnaround Goals: Contribute to meeting lab turnaround time and quality benchmarks through efficient sample processing.
Instrument Operation: Manage loading of analytical instruments and autosamplers, and carry out routine equipment maintenance.
Data Entry: Accurately transfer and enter test results while monitoring and identifying supply restock needs.
Quality Control: Ensure the production of reliable results by validating samples against QC standards and processing QC/blank samples.

18. Laboratory Technician Responsibilities and Key Tasks

Prototype Testing: Performs standard and specialized tests for Prototype, R&D, and production, including conducting basic calculations.
Equipment Operation: Sets up, operates, and maintains prototype machinery such as corrugators, cappers, wrappers, and grinders to support product and component development.
Calibration: Calibrates prototype instruments and equipment according to traceable standards and specified procedures.
Recordkeeping: Maintains accurate and compliant records of prototype builds, testing data, and calibration activities in line with Pall standards.
Reporting: Releases clear and concise technical information through reports, data summaries, job folders, and other documentation formats.

19. Laboratory Technician Duties and Roles

Issue Identification: Identify any issues that may adversely affect the quality of test results and report these to the appropriate representatives to ensure prompt resolution
Specimen Preparation: Prepare reagents and/or specimens for testing and process specimens via automated systems by the laboratory’s standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Laboratory Maintenance: Assist in the general upkeep of the laboratory
Inventory Management: Maintain laboratory supplies and inventory
Procedure Review: Review standard operating procedures (SOPs) and provide input
Customer Interaction: Interact with Customer Service for any issues related to sample processing within the lab
Quality Control: Assist with quality control and quality assurance activities
Equipment Maintenance: Maintain laboratory equipment and instruments according to SOPs
Education Participation: Participate in continuing education
Quality Standards: Maintain strict standards of quality

20. Laboratory Technician Roles and Responsibilities

Specimen Management: Performing duties related to accessioning, specimen management and data entry, cleaning duties, and equipment maintenance
Instrument Operation: Assist in operating automated instrumentation and testing records transcription
Sample Handling: Pre-analytical processes within the life cycle of the laboratory specimen such as collection, packaging, shipping, receiving, processing, tracking, and archiving
Client Interaction: Interface with VRL Eurofins clients to resolve specimen issues
Data Entry: Perform data entry into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
Routine Maintenance: Perform cleaning duties, equipment daily and PM maintenance and QC recording
Reagent Preparation: Assist in reagent preparation and/or aliquoting that do not require quantitative measurement (employing previously calibrated and approved automatic syringes or fixed pipettes)
Instrument Support: Assist in automated instrument operation that does not require quantitative measurement of samples or reagents
Record Archiving: Perform filing and archiving of quality and testing records
Compliance Adherence: Adhere to all quality and safety standards, policies and protocols in the lab, as well as ensuring compliance with all applicable regulatory agencies
Team Collaboration: Work closely and communicate with other lab staff to complete daily activities efficiently and contribute to the team effort
Issue Resolution: Manage issues and projects, resolve escalated issues
Training Delivery: Serve as the primary trainer for new Lab Technicians or the re-training of existing Lab Technicians
Regulation Compliance: Performs duties in compliance with all applicable regulatory and accrediting agencies
Value Support: Supports VRL Eurofins’ business philosophy, leadership values, and ethics