Want to get qualified to work as a laboratory technician or field assistant across a range of industries including mining, food technology, manufacturing and health.be a lab tech? This course offers the skills you need, for the job you want.
Laboratory technicians assist chemists, scientists and other laboratory staff by collecting samples and conducting laboratory tests on a broad range of chemicals, and recording the results for further analysis.
This course will provide you with the practical skills and knowledge to assist in collecting and preparing samples and to carry out, measure and record results of experiments in the physical, chemical, biological or life sciences.
You'll be qualified to work as a laboratory technician or field assistant across a range of industries including mining, food technology, manufacturing and health. You will learn how to plan and carry out lab work, obtain samples, use and calibrate lab equipment, record and present data — as well as gain an understanding of the fundamentals of lab safety and maintenance.
Completion of this nationally recognised and accredited qualification can provide credit towards a relevant higher level qualification, should you wish to pursue further study.
Choose a WA TAFE college that delivers this course
To find out more about doing this course at a WA TAFE college, select one of the TAFEs listed below to read their course descriptions. You'll also be able to see at which TAFE campus/es the course is delivered.
If you would like further information such as when the course is available and how to enrol, and details of course fees, or if you have questions about how the course is delivered, please follow the Find out more link to go to the TAFE's website where you will find full course details and contact information so that you can speak to the TAFE directly.
See what's under the microscope with this hands-on course
This qualification reflects the role of workers who perform a limited range of laboratory operations and is the entry-level qualification required for laboratory personnel across all industry sectors. Job roles include laboratory technicians, instrument operators and similar personnel.
Laboratory technicians perform straightforward laboratory work involving a predictable flow of parallel or similar tasks, usually within one scientific discipline. They follow set procedures and recipes using well- developed technical skills and basic scientific knowledge. Technicians generally work inside a laboratory but may also perform technical tasks in the field or within production plants. They may also perform laboratory maintenance and office tasks.
Laboratory technicians:
- perform straightforward technical tasks to prepare and test samples using relevant procedures, Australian Standards and readily available advice. These tasks generally require close attention to detail and to the accuracy and precision of measurements. They may require the use of manual or semi-automated techniques
- operate test equipment and instruments and make limited adjustments to their controls
- process and record data and recognise trends and out of control conditions
- solve predictable problems using clear information or known solutions. Where alternatives exist, they are limited and apparent
- work under close and regular supervision, although they may have autonomy for specific tasks and responsibility for their own outputs
- take decisions within defined limits of responsibility
- work as part of a team.
A hands on career where you can help to make a difference
This qualification provides you with essential laboratory skills needed to carry out recording and measurement of results and assisting in collecting and preparing of samples. You will learn skills in maintaining a laboratory, routine sampling and testing, recording data, and using laboratory computing programs.
Your Certificate III in Laboratory Skills is flexible and available in class or via a traineeship so you can fit study around your life and not the other way around.
Studying at North Metropolitan TAFE you will experience our well equipped facilities and learn from highly trained lecturers who'll give you the best shot at a variety of careers in science and laboratory operations.
Launch your career in science with this entry-level course that qualifies you to work as a laboratory assistant in food technology, pathology, schools or trades.
This qualification will provide you with the practical skills and knowledge to assist in collecting and preparing samples and to carry out, measure and record results of experiments in the physical, chemical, biological or life sciences. You will learn skills in maintaining a laboratory, routine sampling and testing, recording data, and using laboratory computing programs. You will also learn how to prepare cultures, perform sterile techniques and assist with field work.
Choose a private training provider that delivers this course
This course is available from registered training organisations (accredited private training providers) that are also funded through Jobs and Skills WA. Select from the list below, and follow the link to the provider's website for further information about the course and how to enrol.
This qualification is delivered by LTT Group Pty Ltd (RTO 51621) and it equips students with practical skills in planning and conducting laboratory field work, recording and presenting data, performing basic tests and standard calibrations, maintaining a laboratory, and more. The course focuses on safety and aims to prepare students for entry level laboratory jobs. This qualification can be delivered in the workplace under a traineeship arrangement.
Delivery location
The information presented on the course lists within this website is provided to the Department of Training and Workforce Development by the WA TAFE colleges and private training providers, and is offered as a guide only. It is updated regularly, however some changes to details may occur in between updates. You should always contact the TAFE or private training provider directly to confirm details and/or ask questions.