Data science dominates the hype cycle, but technician roles still drive the bulk of lab hiring. Growth rate tells one story; annual openings tell another.
Ten-year outlook (2024–2034) for science and data occupations
Data scientists see 34% projected growth — eight times the national average. But that's a rate, not a count.
Clinical lab technicians and biological technicians together account for 31,700 openings per year — more than data science.
Data scientists earn $112,590 median. Biological technicians earn roughly $49,000. Same volume, different economics.
May 2024 figures — the compensation landscape behind the openings