Life sciences
Biological technician
Support biological research by preparing samples, running procedures and recording results.
BLS · May 2025
EDUCATION & ENTRY
Biology study + laboratory experience
An undergraduate science route can provide preparation, but employers look for relevant laboratory techniques and careful documentation. Clinical laboratory occupations have different requirements.
The state’s typical entry education classification is “Associate's degree.” This describes the occupation broadly; employers, programs and licensing bodies set specific requirements.
CONNECT THE CAREER TO A PLACE TO LEARN
Oregon training options
These are related routes to investigate. Confirm the full preparation, current admissions and eligibility for your intended role with the provider.
Southern Oregon University
Biology
Explore living systems through laboratory and scientific study, with options connecting to health and environmental interests.
Ask: Which laboratory techniques and undergraduate research projects would strengthen my first job application?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
University of Oregon
Biology
Study biological systems and scientific investigation, with preparation relevant to laboratory work and further education.
Ask: Which laboratory and data skills would I be able to demonstrate when applying for technician roles?
Program page reviewed September 16, 2026
Pacific University
Biology
Explore living systems through scientific investigation, laboratory methods and analysis.
Ask: How early can I join a research project, and which laboratory skills would I graduate able to demonstrate?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Linfield University
Biology
Explore living systems through scientific investigation, laboratory methods and analysis.
Ask: Which laboratory or field experiences are required, and which involve an additional application or travel cost?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Willamette University
Biology
Explore living systems through scientific investigation, laboratory methods and analysis.
Ask: Which degree and research experiences best prepare me for laboratory work or the further education I am considering?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Lewis & Clark College
Biology
Explore living systems through scientific investigation, laboratory methods and analysis.
Ask: Which field and laboratory techniques will I practice, and how does off-campus credit apply to the major?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Reed College
Biology
Explore living systems through scientific investigation, laboratory methods and analysis.
Ask: How are thesis projects resourced, and which laboratory or field techniques would I learn before senior year?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Corban University
Biology
Explore living systems through scientific investigation, laboratory methods and analysis.
Ask: What undergraduate laboratory experience could I build before applying for technician work or further study?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Klamath Community College
Laboratory Technician — Biological and Biotechnology
The Laboratory Technician degree has separate medical/clinical and biological/biotechnology options. This profile covers the biological/biotechnology route, rather than promising eligibility for a clinical laboratory license.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Laboratory Technician — Biological and Biotechnology plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Take this question to a counselor.
Do I enjoy careful, repeatable procedures and documenting what happened?
Before choosing a program, ask for prerequisites, the complete timeline, class and placement schedules, and a full cost estimate including supplies, exams, travel and living expenses.
Build a working cost estimate →Understand the numbers.
The median is the midpoint of estimated wages for Oregon workers in this occupation. The hourly median is $25.09. These figures describe workers across experience levels; they are not starting pay or the earnings of graduates from the programs below.
Oregon projects employment moving from 2,442 jobs in 2024 to 2,558 in 2034. The projected 2,718 openings over the decade include growth and replacement needs as workers leave an occupation. Dividing that total by ten gives the rounded annual average shown above. These are projections, not today’s vacancies.
How to read wage information →