This occupation group covers science technicians not elsewhere classified. Occupations in this group include: fibre technologist, optics technical officer, physics technical officer and textile technical officer.

Prepares materials for experimentation, including freezing and slicing specimens and mixing chemicals; collects information and samples; conducts field and laboratory experiments, tests and analyses; presents results in graphic or written form by preparing maps charts, sketches, diagrams and reports; performs routine mathematical calculations, and computations of measurement; controls the quality and quantity of laboratory supplies by testing samples and monitoring usage; checks, calibrates and maintains test equipment; participates in fabricating, installing and modifying equipment to ensure that critical standards are met.

• Works inside in laboratory situations mainly at universities, schools or research institutes. May spend significant time outdoors for sampling or testing activities (e.g. taking samples from field crops or monitoring field equipment stations).
• Work spaces (typically laboratories) are generally adequately heated and ventilated, but employees are also required to work outside in all weather conditions if carrying out fieldwork.
• Likely to work with some dangerous chemicals and diseased organisms as part of laboratory work. Will wear safety clothing and utilise safe-handling equipment and processes.

• Physical demand is light. Lifting, pulling or carrying is unlikely to exceed the light demand level in most situations.
• Sitting, standing and walking are frequently required.
• Stretching and reaching across, and twisting of the body or neck are not significant components of the role. Bending, squatting, crouching or kneeling is occasionally required.
• Repetitive movements are occasionally required.
• Driving of vehicles is occasionally required but is not a significant component.
• Use of computers, scientific measuring equipment, microscopes and other electronic equipment will be frequent. Contact with skin irritants or water is frequently required but is mitigated by the use of protective equipment.
• Mental skills include research, organisational, problem-solving and communication.

A New Zealand Register Level 5 or 6 qualification or at least three years relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.