Biological Technicians

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 3 (17%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 8 (44%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 7 (39%)

• Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Input data into databases.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers working in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, resource management, biology, and health sciences.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with set standards.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Place orders for laboratory equipment and supplies.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Participate in the research, development, or manufacturing of medicinal and pharmaceutical preparations.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Conduct standardized biological, microbiological or biochemical tests and laboratory analyses to evaluate the quantity or quality of physical or chemical substances in food or other products.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Examine animals and specimens to detect the presence of disease or other problems.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Feed livestock or laboratory animals.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Measure or weigh compounds and solutions for use in testing or animal feed.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Conduct or supervise operational programs, such as fish hatcheries, greenhouses and livestock production programs.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task