MSL30118 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills

Learn 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.

With a Certificate III in Laboratory Skills you will gain 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.

The work of technical assistants involves similar tasks within one scientific discipline with occasional peak periods and some interruptions. They:

• work according to established procedures in a structured environment
• collect and prepare samples
• conduct a wide range of basic tests and a limited range of specialised tests and measurements using manual, semi-automated and fully automated techniques
• define and solve problems of limited complexity where the information available is less obvious, but not contradictory, and can be determined by direct reasoning
• work under the direction and regular supervision of senior technical staff, laboratory or quality managers, or scientific/medical personnel. The work of technical assistants is normally subject to frequent progress and quality checks, and
• generally work in a team and may have responsibility for their own work outputs.