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Job Title

Diagnostic Technician - Microbiology

Agency

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

Department

Canyon - Virology

Proposed Minimum Salary

$19.00 hourly

Job Location

Canyon, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Job Description Summary

The Diagnostic Technician - Microbiology executes standard and advanced scientific techniques used in a microbiology diagnostic laboratory. Prepares samples, performs assays, records and reports results for various veterinary diagnostic specimens. Provides assistance to senior technicians and professional staff. Participates as a productive team member in support of TVMDL objectives wherever feasible. Performs additional related duties as required or assigned by Section or Laboratory leadership in support of diagnostic services. This role requires performance of routine and non-routine tasks of advanced complexity and execution of repetitive tasks with considerable supervision.

Responsibilities

Sample Prep, Sample Cataloging

Participates in sample processing by retrieving samples, ensuring samples are properly accessioned, entering case data into TVMDL’s laboratory information management system (LIMS), and ensuring samples are fit for purpose of test. Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests and client instructions. Files and/or catalogs samples, specimens or other diagnostic material for archival purposes.

Testing

Follows standard procedures in conducting or assists in conducting routine laboratory tests. Generates appropriate forms and test documentation. Performs a variety of laboratory procedures. Mixes reagents and buffers. Prepares standard reagents and controls for use in microbiology section.

Data Entry, Interpretation, Results

Reads, computes and records observations, results, and measurements into TVMDL's approved worksheets, testing maps, check-lists, and into the LIMS. Maintains precise and accurate records of all diagnostic microbiology cases.

Client Communication

Provides excellent customer service to laboratory clients. Communicates test results with clients and answers questions within competence. Triages calls from clients to appropriate professional staff.

Quality Assurance & Safety

Adheres and conforms to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures in the lab. Identifies issues of noncompliance and non-conformance and assists in their resolving. Responsible for safe handling of hazardous chemicals. Actively participates in quality assurance and safety programs.

SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation

Identifies need to edit/update SOPs, procedures, forms and other documents related to the work in the section.

Research, Reference Materials, Development

Under the direction of the Section and/or Laboratory leadership, assists in research and cataloging reference materials.

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment

Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory. Informs management when supply inventory is low. Takes good care of equipment and performs maintenance defrostation/washes (where applicable).

Administrative Duties

Files, copies and/or scans relevant paperwork, including but not limited to worksheets, forms, accession forms, regulatory forms, quality assurance and safety documentation, equipment maintenance forms, and logbooks.

Training & Mentorship

Provides back up to other technicians in event of absence. Successfully completes proficiency tests for assigned assays.

Supervisory, Evaluation, Employee Support

Not applicable.

Supervising other Managers

Not applicable.

Teamwork & Cooperation

Collaborates with colleagues in other sections and TVMDL locations. Fosters and promotes laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards, and communication. May participate in flex scheduling, including work prior to 8 AM, after 5 PM, on weekends or on holidays. Participates in cross-training with fellow Technicians in other sections throughout the laboratory in essential skills to assure continuity of operations.

Other

All work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Performs work in such a way as to not expose self or others to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods.

Works in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics. Assists programs for 4-H students, career fairs, student tours, and other lab guests.

Additional Position Details

+ This position is required to work onsite during normal business hours M-F 8 am to 5 pm and may participate in flex scheduling, including work prior to 8 AM, after 5 PM, on weekends or on holidays.

+ TVMDL is located on the campus of West Texas A&M University (WTAMU). Parking permits are available from WTAMU at the expense of the employee

+ Incumbent will be required to take a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs

+ This position is enrolled in the TVMDL Salary Step Program, offering up to two pay increases in the first 18 months of employment for satisfactory performance.

+ TVMDL is considered an essential component of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) and remains operational for several “open holidays” in which overtime or compensatory time may be earned.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

+ High School graduation or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

+ Knowledge of laboratory equipment, scientific apparatus, and computer equipment.

+ Ensures attention to detail.

+ Able to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

+ Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Education and Experience

+ Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in life science or biology.

+ One or more years of experience with routine laboratory procedures. Experience in handling biological materials.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

+ Some knowledge of concepts, practices, and standard laboratory procedures. Working knowledge of spreadsheet and word processing. Use of standard office equipment and personal computers.

+ Able to establish effective working relationships.

+ Good sterile and aseptic techniques.

+ Takes initiative, well organized and able to use time efficiently and communicate constructively.

Preferred Licenses, Certifications or Registrations

+ Certified laboratory or veterinary technician.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.