Although some school districts may have a minimal education requirement of an associate's degree, you may want to consider obtaining a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in an applied science field to become a school science technician. An advanced degree may increase your employment options, salary rates, and career advancement opportunities. Some students may choose to enroll in graduate school, which can significantly improve career benefits. An early interest in the field may help you to become a school science technician, and you may want to consider attending science fairs and getting involved in projects to prepare for this type of position.
Your B.S. degree should be in a science field, and you should consult with a college adviser to choose coursework that will help you enter this profession. Aside from the necessary prerequisites, you will want to enroll in science topics including biology, chemistry, and numerous mathematics courses to become a school science technician. Classes that involve lab work will be extremely important to entering this profession, you should consider participating in extracurricular work with your professors and/or science department to increase your skills and knowledge base. Internships will also guide you into this career and most universities have an abundance of science internships.
Future employers will be looking for a candidate with previous experience in the field and internships are an excellent opportunity to get hands-on training. To find experiences that will benefit your chances to become a school science technician, you should discuss different options with your science professors. During your last year of undergraduate studies, you should begin reading through job descriptions and qualifications for jobs in the area that you intend to work. This step will enable you to work on any requirements that you have not yet completed especially experience qualifications. You may also want to consider working in an entry level position in the field in order to gain additional experience.
Many in this profession are employed by schools, so in addition to having an outstanding academic history, you may be required to submit several personal references, and have a clean criminal background. The duties of this position may vary and aside from overseeing school science labs, you may need to have administrative skills and other technical abilities. In addition to education and experience, you will need to have several personality traits to become a school science technician including excellent communication skills, organization skills and the ability to work well with others.
