• You want a hands-on and practical career in the Science and Laboratory Technology Sector.
• You have completed a Certificate III in Laboratory skills and would like to develop your skills further. 

Then this is the course for you. 

To make an informed choice about the suitability of this course, please consider the essential skills and knowledge below. You must: 

• Have strong interest in Science, Biology, and Chemistry (Environment, Medical, Cosmetics, Mining, Agriculture, Food Technology, Forensics, Fermentation - Wine Making, Brewing, Distilling).
• Have well-developed communication skills.
• Be able to work one-on-one and part of a team.
• Have strong maths, analytical, and critical thinking skills, with excellent attention to detail.
• Have standard colour vision.
• Be able to follow instructions, work health and safety standards and the ability to respond to immediate safety risks.
• Be tolerant, patient and willing to work with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

When you complete this course, you may find entry to the workplace as a Laboratory Technician. You will have the practical skills and knowledge to perform a range of laboratory techniques, including manual, semi-automated and fully automated and, collect, prepare, and process samples by industry laboratory standards. You will learn about quality control, performance of instrumental and non-instrumental tests, standardisation, and the use of solutions.

Time Commitment: You will need to allocate appropriate time to complete this course. This includes attending classes on-site and/or online as outlined in the study mode; and undertake independent study outside of class hours, including private study, assessment preparation, research, and complete assessment requirements. 

Below are some of the important personal skills you will be required to develop and demonstrate during training. These skills are highly valued by industry:

• Respectful Communication: Engage effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, communicate ideas clearly, and foster trust and strong relationships.
• Teamwork: Work collaboratively, treat others with respect, and remain open to constructive feedback.
• Problem Solving: Proactively find solutions, engage with challenges, ask questions, and respond appropriately within your scope of practice.
• Initiative: Stay motivated, take initiative, and seek help when needed.
• Planning: Manage time well. Prioritise and complete tasks efficiently and effectively.
• Self-Management: Reflect on your performance. Acknowledge your success and take responsibility for your shortcomings.
• Technology: Adapt to new tools, access digital resources, and integrate technology into your learning.
• Learning: Recognise your strengths while embracing new knowledge and experiences to support personal and professional growth. Some of the skills you will learn include:
  • Planning and conducting basic laboratory testing and/or field work.
  • Maintaining the laboratory and field workplace.
  • Performing standard calibrations.
  • Performing microscopic examinations.
  • Performing techniques to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Recording and presenting data.
  • Participating in health and safety of self and others in the laboratory or field.