Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other
Life, physical, and social science technicians support scientists and researchers across disciplines not covered by more specialized roles. They work in laboratories, field sites, universities, government agencies, and private companies, performing experiments, collecting data, maintaining equipment, and analyzing results under the direction of senior scientists.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against life, physical, and social science technicians, all other and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing samples or equipment, running tests or observations, recording data, and maintaining lab notebooks. Technicians might calibrate instruments, assist with field work, process specimens, or troubleshoot equipment failures. Tasks vary widely depending on the specific research area—one technician might extract DNA while another collects environmental samples or analyzes survey responses.
Who this work suits
You work well in this role if you're detail-oriented, comfortable following established procedures, and interested in supporting scientific inquiry across multiple fields. You thrive in structured environments where accuracy matters and you can take satisfaction in enabling others' research discoveries.
What it takes
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $56,990 | $86,260 | $115,090 | 460 |
| District of Columbia | $62,900 | $79,230 | $90,120 | 150 |
| California | $62,620 | $78,350 | $97,540 | 10,090 |
| Washington | $54,070 | $73,530 | $91,400 | 980 |
| Alaska | $56,470 | $70,700 | $87,350 | 170 |
| Rhode Island | $56,950 | $69,630 | $83,670 | 210 |
| North Dakota | $51,020 | $69,350 | $76,040 | 180 |
| Georgia | $49,760 | $69,320 | $105,820 | 2,230 |
| Maryland | $59,710 | $68,390 | $97,240 | 3,510 |
| Kentucky | $51,810 | $68,230 | $86,320 | 320 |
| Virginia | $50,250 | $67,240 | $83,860 | 2,710 |
| Maine | $53,800 | $66,730 | $89,320 | 390 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Data Science Practitioner (CDSP) — CertNexus
- Certified Quality Technician (CQT) — American Society for Quality
- Concrete Strength Testing Technician (CSTT) — American Concrete Institute International
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 life, physical, and social science technicians, all other and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4099.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.