Laboratory Technician

JOB SUMMARY

The laboratory technician is involved in a variety of laboratory procedures and maintenance involving biologics and chemicals. A primary component of the laboratory technician's job is sampling, testing, measuring, recording and analysis of results and data, all while adhering to correct procedures and established health and safety guidelines. In performing these tasks, lab technicians provide necessary technical support to enable the laboratory to function effectively. The laboratory technician will also have primary responsibility for medical storage management and cleanliness in the storage area.

DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performing basic lab tests, such as fecal flotation, cytology, urinalysis, PCR, bacteriology, CBC and blood chemistry.
• Collecting, preparing, and analyzing specimens and samples, such as fecal samples, blood, and serum.
• Prepare samples for shipment for clients or outside laboratories following all health and safety guidelines, shipping regulations and requirements.
• Operating, maintaining, and cleaning standard laboratory equipment such as microscopes, autoclaves, centrifuges, pipetting machines, and measuring devices.
• Ensuring that the lab is well-stocked and resourced.
• Maintain a clean and orderly work environment.
• Perform regular inventory checks, including ensuring inventory quality, properly disposing of expired substances and materials and restock/reorder materials in a timely manner.
• Using computers and performing mathematical calculations as needed.
• Involvement in small internal research projects
• Keeping up to date with technical developments, especially those which save time and improve reliability.
• Adhering to the laboratory's quality control policies; documenting all quality control activities; performing instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance.
• Following and ensuring strict safety checks and protocols.
• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline preferred.
• Requires knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Ability to learn and understand relational databases

REQUIRED SKILLS / ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of operating various lab equipment including, but not limited to centrifuge, microscope, blood analysis machines, and PCR machines. Specific training will be provided for equipment provided on site including Abaxis HM2 and Vetscan HM5 hematology machines.
• Ability to pipette, prepare laboratory samples, prepare various slides for analysis, and perform measurements and mathematical calculations.
• Strong organizational skills are required as well as an independent work ethic to maintain focus in a dynamic environment.
• Knowledge of hazardous shipping regulations and/or ability to obtain hazardous shipping training and certification.
• Ability to maintain excellent and meticulous records as well as provide prompt reporting and data storage of records.