Technician I

Job TitleTechnician I Agency Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory Department Center Proposed Minimum Salary$17.45 hourly Job LocationCenter, Texas Job TypeStaff Job Description Sample Preparation and Testing: Perform, assist, and train other personnel with case accessioning and data entry. Perform, assist, and train other laboratory personnel on diagnostic work as needed including sample receiving, labeling, preparation, storage, and shipping. Perform, assist, and train other personnel on bacteriological diagnostic procedures including isolation and identification of bacteria and fungi, using conventional procedures and commercial rapid kits, and antibiotic sensitivities. Perform, assist, and train other personnel on running and interpreting serological tests including Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), plate agglutination, tube agglutination, and agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID). Daily register of temperatures in working areas, cold room, and refrigerators. Perform, assist, and train other laboratory personnel on necropsy specimen receiving, necropsy procedures, sample collection from necropsy cases, carcass disposal, biohazardous waste disposal, etc. Perform, assist, and train other personnel on reagent and media preparation, which includes measuring, mixing, sterilization, and dispensing into tubes or plates. Perform, assist and train other personnel on cleaning and sterilization of glassware and supplies. Perform, assist, and train other personnel on maintenance, cleaning, and disinfecting of laboratory and laboratory equipment, as required. Assisting with necropsy, bacteriology, molecular diagnostics, and histopathology, as well as disposing and incinerating carcasses. Participation in validation and implementation of diagnostic assays. Quality Assurance & Safety: Maintain quality control records for bacteriology testing. Assist with maintaining control records for serological testing performed. Perform quality control procedures on all media prepared. Assist with keeping updated the diagnostic equipment maintenance. Assist with development, maintenance, and oversight of the quality assurance and safety programs in the Center laboratory. Assist with conducting necessary steps that serve to validate and standardize test procedures and techniques utilized. Participate in TVMDL Quality System Management and Safety Committees. Assist with other laboratory operations including miscellaneous quality control, safety, and biosecurity. Identify and initiate proactive solutions to quality assurance and safety issues. Assist with audits and visits by external clientele and agencies. Assist with safe handling, disposal of hazardous chemicals Communication: Assist with answering the phone providing information requested by the clients or redirecting the phone calls properly. Other Duties: Assist with supply inventory, ordering, receiving, and perform restocking of supplies. Perform other miscellaneous procedures, which may require moderate lifting. Perform other job related duties as required. Education: Bachelor of Sciences degree in the field of biology (medical or agriculture preferred), or any equivalent combination of training and experience. Experience: No prior experience required. Licenses, Certifications, or Registrations: Valid driver’s license. Knowledge: Diagnostic microbiology (bacteriology and mycology), serological diagnostic test including Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA), plate agglutination, tube agglutination, agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID). Molecular biology. Good laboratory practices. Use of general laboratory equipment including autoclaves, centrifuges, balances, biosafety cabinets, incubators. Use of standard office equipment and personal computers. Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint. Skills: Strong verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills Abilities: Ability to maintain confidentiality and use judgment and discretion. Multi task and work cooperatively with others. Ability to work organized. 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/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer. TVMDL is a member of The Texas A&M University System and Texas A&M AgriLife and includes four diagnostic laboratories serving veterinarians, livestock producers, and government agencies. TVMDL performs an average of 1 million tests per year on submissions from Texas, neighboring states, and around the world. TVMDL has proudly served Texas as the state veterinary diagnostic laboratory for over 50 years. Our work in diagnostic testing, veterinary medicine, and disease surveillance promotes animal health and protects agricultural, companion animal and public health in Texas and beyond. We invite you to explore our agency and discover what a career at TVMDL has to offer you. TVMDL professionals work with specimens from almost all mammalian and avian species. Staff work alongside some of the foremost veterinary diagnostic specialists in the world and have the opportunity to perform advanced diagnostic techniques as well as the tried-and-true classical test methods. Benefits options include: Health, dental, vision, and life insurance Retirement programs Employee Assistance Program Flexible Spending Accounts Wellness Release Program Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave Opportunities to earn compensatory time TVMDL employee programs include: Formal career ladder Salary Step Program Educational Reimbursement Program Discounted diagnostic testing, veterinary care, and pet supplies Complimentary onsite fitness center, fitness classes, and showers at TVMDL - College Station Learn about our commitment to inclusive excellence.