Chemical Laboratory Technicians
19AI USED FOR19%moving to64%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSC
STARTING PAY£22,000 - £28,000
PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.
Skip to main content
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM PHYSICAL SCIENCES →
Chemical Laboratory Technicians
Chemical laboratory technicians play a crucial role in the scientific community, contributing to groundbreaking research and the development of innovative products that impact various industries, from pharmaceuticals to environmental science. Their expertise ensures that chemical processes are safe, efficient, and effective, making them indispensable in advancing technology and improving quality of life globally.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
This job holds up well against AI
AI is used for very little of what this job actually involves today, and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior Chemical Laboratory TechnicianAs a Junior Chemical Laboratory Technician, you will assist in basic laboratory tasks, including sample preparation and routine testing. This entry-level position is ideal for recent graduates or those with relevant vocational training.£22,000 - £28,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level Chemical Laboratory TechnicianIn a mid-level role, you will take on more complex tasks, including conducting independent experiments and analysing data. You will also mentor junior technicians and contribute to project planning.£30,000 - £40,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Chemical Laboratory TechnicianAs a Senior Chemical Laboratory Technician, you will lead projects, oversee laboratory operations, and ensure compliance with industry standards. Your expertise will be crucial in driving innovation and improving laboratory efficiency.£50,000+
Apprenticeship listings for this career → (June 2026 snapshot; check closing dates on the official service)
The degree route
Courses in this career's subject area, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Physics with AstrophysicsUniversity of Exeter · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£35,000 median
🎓Acoustical Engineering with Industrial Placement YearUniversity of Southampton · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£32,000 median
🎓Chemistry with Cosmetic ScienceThe University of Reading · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Chemistry with Medicinal ChemistryThe University of Manchester · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
All Physical Sciences courses as cards →
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is an apprenticeship route into this career. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.
Degree subjects that lead this way
Courses in this career's subject area, from the same register that priced the degree above. Subject-matched, not a guaranteed qualifying route: check each course's own entry requirements and any professional accreditation before you rely on it.
Physics with AstrophysicsUniversity of Exeter · DegreeAcoustical Engineering with Industrial Placement YearUniversity of Southampton · DegreePhysicsQueen's University of Belfast · DegreeChemistry with Cosmetic ScienceThe University of Reading · DegreeChemistry with Medicinal ChemistryThe University of Manchester · DegreePhysicsUniversity of Aberdeen · Degree