I'm graduating soon and want to jump into a science-related job without going to college immediately. What are some entry-level science positions I could qualify for right away with just a high school diploma?
There are a few entry-level science-related jobs that you could potentially apply for right after high school:
1. Lab Assistant: Many laboratories hire assistants to help with basic tasks such as sample preparation, maintaining laboratory equipment, and record keeping. A high school diploma could qualify you for this role, especially if you've taken science classes during high school. Some lab assistants, after getting some experience, are even trained to conduct simple tests or experiments.
2. Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of a pharmacist, and their role often includes measuring, packaging, and distributing prescription medications. You'll need to acquire a pharmacy tech certification, but some employers provide on-the-job training, so you could start soon after graduating.
3. Field Technician: This role often involves collecting data for scientific research, like sampling water or soil, cataloging plant or animal species, or measuring environmental conditions. It's an excellent role if you enjoy being outdoors, and it can provide a practical understanding of how scientific studies are conducted.
4. Wildlife Technician: Working as a wildlife technician involves observing and managing animals in their native habitats. This often requires a lot of field work and can provide a rich hands-on experience.
5. Agricultural/Food Science Technician: You could assist in investigating and analyzing food production processes to improve product quality. This could involve trial monitoring, quality checks, or data collection.
Remember, these are entry-level positions that provide a foot in the door. Opportunities for growth and further career development often require further education or specialized training with time.
Finally, don't forget about internships or apprenticeships. Even if they are not full-time jobs, they provide valuable experience that can lead to better opportunities and help you gain a better understanding if this is a path you want to pursue.
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