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Physical Science Technician

OFO Code: 311102

Last checked 3 October 2026

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1. Occupation identity

OFO code
311102
Occupation
Physical Science Technician
Classification
OFO 2021
Major group
TECHNICIANS AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSIONALS
Unit group
3111 · Chemical and Physical Science Technicians

Official description
Chemical and physical science technicians perform technical tasks to aid in research in chemistry, physics, geology, geophysics, meteorology and astronomy, and in the development of industrial, medical, military and other practical applications of research results.

More official OFO detail

Specialisations: Seismology Technical Officer, Astronomy Technician, Physical Sciences Workshop Technician, Physics Technician, Geology Technician, Meteorology Technician, Product Quality Laboratory Technician, Physical Sciences Laboratory Technician, Physical Sciences Research Technician (University)

  • Preparing materials for experimentation such as freezing and slicing specimens and mixing chemicals
  • Collecting and testing earth and water samples, recording observations and analyzing data in support of geologists or geophysicists
  • Carrying out routine laboratory tests and performing a variety of technical support functions to assist chemical and physical scientists in research, development, analysis and testing
  • Controlling the quality and quantity of laboratory supplies by testing samples and monitoring usage and preparing detailed estimates of quantities and costs of materials and labour required for projects, according to the specifications given
  • Setting up, operating, and maintaining laboratory instruments and equipment, monitoring experiments, making observations, and calculating and recording results
  • Collecting samples and preparing materials and equipment for experiments, tests and analyses

2. Demand status

Demand evidence not yet linked

This is an official OFO 2021 occupation. Demand status is separate evidence and is not inferred from inclusion in the OFO.

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3. Salary evidence

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5. Qualification

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6. Study funding

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7. Industry, sector and provincial context

National occupation classification. Industry and provincial context are shown only where a separate official source supports the link.

No source-backed modern OFO↔SIC 7 industry link has been ingested for this occupation yet. PathLens does not infer one from the job title.

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8. Next steps — official links

9. Decision tools

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