Diagnostic Technician - Serology

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Job Description

Job Description Summary

The Diagnostic Technician - Serology executes standard and advanced scientific techniques used in a serology diagnostic laboratory. This position 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; and performs additional related duties as required or assigned by Section or Lab 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.

General Description

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 assist in conducting routine laboratory tests. Generates appropriate forms and test documentation. Performs a variety of laboratory procedures such enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and agglutination. Mixes reagents and buffers. Prepares standard reagents and controls for use in serology.

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 serology 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 nonconformance and assists in their resolving. Is 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 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.

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

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 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.

This is a security-sensitive position. The individual in this position is required to handle Protected Health Information (PHI) as defined by HIPAA regulations. The individual is required to handle PHI in accordance with A&M System policy and is further required to complete HIPAA training as a condition of employment, within a reasonable time frame after the individual's employment, and on an as-needed basis thereafter.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Preferred Education and Experience:

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

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.