22110

Biological technologists and technicians

TEER 2 — College diploma, apprenticeship (2+ yrs) or supervisory

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: Yes

Classification

Natural & applied sciences

2 › 22 › 221 › 2211

Definition

Biological technologists and technicians provide technical support and services to scientists, engineers and other professionals working in fields such as agriculture, resource management, environmental protection, plant and animal biology, microbiology, cell and molecular biology and health sciences, or may work independently in these fields. They are employed in both laboratory and field settings by governments, manufacturers of food products, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, biotechnology companies, health, research and educational institutions, environmental consulting companies, and resource and utilities companies.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Biological technologists
Set up and conduct biological, microbiological and biochemical tests and laboratory analyses in support of research and quality control in food production, sanitation, pharmaceutical production, biotechnology and other fields
Apply methods and techniques such as microscopy, histochemistry, chromatography, electrophoresis and spectroscopy
Perform experimental procedures in agriculture, plant breeding, animal husbandry, biology and biomedical research
Conduct field research and surveys to collect data and samples of water, soil, and plant and animal populations
Conduct environmental monitoring and compliance activities for the protection of fisheries stock, wildlife and other natural resources
Analyze data and prepare reports
Conduct or supervise operational programs such as fish hatchery, greenhouse and livestock production programs.
Biological technicians
Assist in conducting biological, microbiological and biochemical tests and laboratory analyses
Perform limited range of technical functions in support of agriculture, plant breeding, animal husbandry, biology, biomedical research and environmental protection
Assist in conducting field research and surveys to collect data and samples of water, soil, and plant and animal populations
Assist in analysis of data and preparation of reports.

Example job titles

•agricultural technician
•agricultural technologist
•agrology technician
•aquaculture technician
•bacteriological technician
•biological laboratory technologist
•botanical technician
•fish hatchery technician

Overview

Under the Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, biological technologists and technicians are categorized under NOC code 22110. This occupation is classified under TEER 2, which generally requires a post-secondary education program of two to three years at a community college, institute of technology, or a closely related credential. These professionals work in a variety of settings, including research laboratories, government agencies, food and beverage industries, and pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities.

Key duties for individuals in this role include conducting biological, microbiological, and chemical laboratory analyses, setting up and standardizing laboratory equipment, and compiling data for research reports. Because NOC 22110 is classified under TEER 2, qualified individuals may be eligible to apply for Canadian permanent residency through federal economic immigration programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) under Express Entry, as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) aligned with in-demand technical occupations.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For official guidelines and immigration requirements, please consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

Verify this NOC with DUTYPROOF →Check program eligibility →

Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.