What are the responsibilities and job description for the Diagnostic Technician - Molecular Diagnostics position at Texas A&M AgriLife?
Job Title
Diagnostic Technician - Molecular Diagnostics
Agency
Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory
Department
College Station - Molecular
Proposed Minimum Salary
$19.00 hourly
Job Location
College Station, Texas
Job Type
Staff
Job Description
Job Description Summary
The Diagnostic Technician position, under general supervision, collects and prepares samples, performs assays, and records and reports results for diagnostic specimens submitted from clients on behalf of the Molecular Diagnostics section. The testing performed aids in diagnosis of animal conditions or diseases.
Responsibilities
Sample Preparation, Sample Cataloging: Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests/client instructions, ensures samples are fit for purpose of the requested test, and enters case data into a computer-based laboratory information management system (LIMS). Collects and prepares samples submitted for diagnostic testing using scissors, forceps, and/or scalpels, and performs molecular based testing (e.g. PCR, RT-PCR). May file and/or catalogue samples or other diagnostic material for archival purposes. May mix reagents and buffers.
Testing: Follows standard operating procedures in conducting routine diagnostic laboratory test methods (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, etc.). Prepares reagents, standards and controls as needed. Generates appropriate forms and test documentation. Uses, monitors, and maintains laboratory equipment and other scientific apparatus. Performs all work in accordance with validated test methods, SOPs, procedures, employee training and proficiency, and equipment standards, as applicable.
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.
Client Communication: Communicates with clients requesting basic testing details and capabilities.
Quality Assurance and Safety: Adheres and conforms to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures. Assists in identifying incidents of nonconformance and noncompliance. Actively participates in quality assurance and safety programs.
SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation: Reviews quality assurance documents to ensure clarity of instructions for entry level technicians.
Research, Reference Materials, Development: May assist with cataloging reference materials.
Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment: Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory. Inform management when supply inventory is low, inadequate, or expired
Administrative Roles: 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 and Mentorship: Cross trains in duties with other technicians. Provides backup to fellow technicians in case of absences. Successfully completes proficiency tests for assigned assays.
Teamwork and Cooperation: Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards, and communication. May participate in flex scheduling, including work prior to 8am, after 5pm, on weekends or on holidays. Participates in cross-training with fellow technicians within section and may cross-train in other areas throughout the laboratory.
Other: 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 oneself to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods.
Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:
- High School graduation or equivalent combination of training and experience.
Preferred Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in biomedical science, animal science, microbiology, or a related discipline with laboratory/lecture coursework in microbiology.
- Experience in a laboratory, veterinary clinic, or other animal-related occupation (e.g., 4H, FFA, industry, etc.).
- Experience providing customer service to internal or external clients.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of laboratory equipment, scientific apparatus, and computer equipment.
- Ensure attention to detail.
- Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT).
- Knowledge of basic scientific/veterinary/medical terminology.
- Skilled in use of laboratory and computer equipment, performing repetitive tasks efficiently and accurately, and accurate record keeping.
- Ability to ensure attention to detail, work well in a team, communicate with colleagues and clients, prioritize tasks, and manage competing responsibilities, stay organized, able to work with animal tissues and bodily fluids, maintain focus under pressure, and meet deadlines.
Special Instructions
A cover letter, resume/CV, and contact 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 institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.
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.
Salary : $19
