Diagnostic Technician - Clinical Pathology

Job TitleDiagnostic Technician - Clinical Pathology Agency Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory Department College Station - Clinical Pathology Proposed Minimum Salary$21.63 hourly Job LocationCollege Station, Texas Job TypeStaff Job Description Job Description Summary This position serves as a Diagnostic Technician in the Clinical Pathology Section, a fast paced, high-volume laboratory that conducts over 300 diagnostic tests and panels daily on animal samples submitted by veterinarians and animal owners. Duties & Responsibilities General Description: This positions job duties are multifaceted and will allow you to prepare and analyze samples, run various laboratory instrumentation, perform assays, and report results for various veterinary diagnostic specimens (whole blood, serum, plasma, urine, feces, fluids, and/or aspirates). This role requires performance of routine, repetitive tasks of moderate complexity and the ability to troubleshoot routine procedures with considerable supervision. Sample Preparation, Sample Cataloging: Participates in sample processing by retrieving samples, ordering appropriate testing in TVMDLs laboratory information management system (LIMS), ensuring samples are fit for purpose of test, and distributing samples to appropriate clinical pathology station. Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests/client instruction(s). May file and/or catalog samples, slides, specimens or other diagnostic material for archival purposes. Testing: Prepares cytological samples for pathologists. Performs hematological analysis of whole blood on an automated analyzer and manual microscopy. Performs clinical chemistry and immunoassay testing on serum/plasma using a clinical chemistry and immunoassay analyzer. Performs and documents required analyzer maintenance. Prepares reagents and calibrators using calibrated pipets. Verifies analyzer(s) accuracy by running known control samples and analyzing control data via Levey-Jennings charts. Performs urinalysis using manual methods and microscopy. Processes and performs testing on various parasitology samples. Performs simple enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques and radioimmunoassays (RIAs). Data Entry, Interpretation, Results: Reads, computes and records observations, results and measurements into LIMS. Ensures documentation for all tests performed in the section meets quality assurance requirements. Reviews and releases accurate results. Recognizes abnormal values to be further reviewed. Client Communication: Contacts clients to clarify basic test requests, verifies sources/locations for cytologic specimens, and discusses inappropriate sample submissions. Quality Assurance & Safety: Adheres and conforms to quality assurance, safety programs, and procedures. Assists in identifying incidents of nonconformance and noncompliance. Reviews quality assurance documents (Standard Operating Procedures, forms, etc.) to ensure clarity of instructions and perform trainings and testing within a timely manner. Is responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals when relevant. SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation: Reads, interprets, and performs all tests in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs). Reviews and recommends changes or improvements to section SOPs, forms or other documentation related to section protocols. Research, Reference Materials, Test Development: Assists in research, cataloging reference materials, and development of new test methods as needed. Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment: Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory. Recognizes and informs management when supply inventory is low, inadequate, or expired in a timely manner. Performs and documents calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment as trained. Administrative Roles: Files and scans relevant paperwork into internal document management system as needed (including, but not limited to: worksheets, forms, accession forms, regulatory forms, quality assurance and safety documentation, equipment maintenance forms, and logbooks). Abides by agency and state records retention and confidentiality requirements. Training and Mentorship: On proficient stations, mentors and trains new technicians by providing guidance, advice, feedback, and support. Maintains high levels of communication with Section leadership on training and mentorship progression. Teamwork & Cooperation: Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards, and respectful communication. Participates in cross training with fellow technicians in sections throughout the laboratory. Provides support to fellow technicians in case of absences or high case load. Other: Works in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics by writing and/or editing copy, speaking at conferences or meetings, or participating in TVMDL-sponsored exhibit shows. Assists/hosts/leads programs for 4-H students, career fairs, student tours and other lab guests. Performs work 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 others or the employee to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods. Performs work in such a way as to not expose others or myself to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods. Performs other job-related duties as required. Additional Position Details: This position is enrolled in TVMDLs Salary Step Program, guaranteeing two pay increases in the first 18 months of employment for satisfactory performance. This position is required to work onsite during normal business hours M-F 8 am to 5 pm, and will participate in flex scheduling by working M-F 9am to 6pm and occasional weekends. TVMDL is located on the campus of Texas A&M University (TAMU). Parking permits are available from TAMU at the expense of the employee. Incumbent will be required to take a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs. 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. For information on TVMDLs holiday schedule, visit our website. Qualifications Required Education and Experience: High school graduation or equivalent combination of training and experience. Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Knowledge of laboratory equipment, scientific apparatus, and computer equipment. Ensure attention to detail. Able to multitask and work cooperatively with others. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Preferred Education and Experience: Associates degree or bachelors degree in a related field or any equivalent combination of training and experience. Clinical lab or veterinary experience, with preference given to professional lab or technician experience. Experience working in fast paced/high volume environments. Experience with Microsoft software (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams), Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Understanding of veterinary and/or medical terminology and anatomic locations. Ability to use laboratory equipment, microscopes, pipettes, and computer software. Ensure attention to detail; work well in a team; communicate with colleagues and clients; prioritize tasks and manage competing responsibilities; and meet deadlines Preferred Licenses, Certifications, or Registrations: Licensed veterinary technician (LVT) or medical laboratory technician (MLT) certification. Acover letter, resume/CV, andcontact information for three professional references(to include at least one previous supervisor)are required to successfully apply for this position. You may upload all three on the application under CV/Resume, pre-populate the online application using a LinkedIn profile, or attach the documents. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. Upon invitation to interview, candidates will be asked for 2-3 professional recommendations (to include at least one previous supervisor). Closed-toed shoes and long pants are required attire for the Laboratory environment. All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institutions verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institutions procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check. Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. TVMDL is a member ofThe Texas A&M University Systemand 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