Bioinformatics Technicians
Bioinformatics technicians apply computational tools and biological principles to analyze complex genetic and molecular data. They work primarily in research labs, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and medical institutions, supporting scientists by processing, visualizing, and interpreting large datasets related to drug development, disease research, and genomic analysis.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against bioinformatics technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Work typically involves running bioinformatics software to process DNA sequences or protein structures, troubleshooting analysis pipelines, and organizing research data in databases. A technician might spend time documenting procedures, updating computational methods, reviewing results for accuracy, and communicating findings to research teams. Much of the work is detail-oriented and rule-based, requiring careful attention to data quality and protocol adherence.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICR. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd succeed in this role if you enjoy solving puzzles through systematic investigation and prefer working within established procedures and standards. People drawn to this work tend to appreciate the logical, orderly nature of data analysis and find satisfaction in precise technical execution.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $68,000 | $180,500 | $195,190 | 120 |
| North Carolina | $86,170 | $101,850 | $124,820 | — |
| Texas | $93,090 | $93,090 | $100,540 | — |
| Illinois | $63,420 | $81,090 | $104,700 | 1,320 |
| New York | $62,500 | $79,460 | $133,140 | 70 |
| Alaska | $69,140 | $78,580 | $94,810 | 90 |
| Washington | $58,250 | $65,840 | $78,360 | 320 |
| Tennessee | $65,110 | $65,110 | $85,520 | — |
| New Jersey | $55,060 | $61,400 | $75,140 | 50 |
| Virginia | $53,620 | $59,990 | $113,090 | 180 |
| Iowa | $46,590 | $49,020 | $67,710 | 30 |
| Maryland | $41,250 | $42,850 | $86,670 | 50 |
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM) — Society for Clinical Data Management
- Microsoft Office Specialist: Microsoft Excel Expert (Office 2019) — Microsoft Corporation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against bioinformatics technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 15-2099.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.