Technician I

Job TitleTechnician I Agency Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory Department College Station - Histopathology Proposed Minimum Salary$17.45 hourly Job LocationCollege Station, Texas Job TypeStaff Job Description The Technician I in the Histopathology Section, under general supervision, trims samples of formalin-fixed animal tissue for automated processing, embeds processed tissues in paraffin, microtomes samples into thin sections, adheres sections to coverslip slides, and prepares them for staining techniques. This role requires the performance of routine, repetitive tasks with considerable technical supervision and the ability to troubleshoot routine procedures. The Histopathology Section is a fast-paced, high-volume laboratory that prepares hundreds of slides daily for microscopic examination. The incumbent will work in a fast-paced environment that requires attention to detail, quick problem-solving, strong communication skills, excellent time management abilities, and demonstration of manual dexterity. This role will verify the quality of fixed tissues and stains by differentiating colors of slides. Sample Prep, Sample Cataloging: Retrieves samples, visually analyze samples for quality, and orders appropriate tests in TVMDL’s computer-based laboratory information management system (LIMS). Files and catalogs specimens, slides, paraffin blocks, and other diagnostic material for archival purposes. Testing: Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests and client instructions. Visually analyzes samples and records notes on each, indicating observations, measurements, diagrams, and descriptions of each tissue. Prepares samples for national and state regulatory disease monitoring programs. Uses automated immunohistochemistry staining system for prion specimens. Client Communication: Communicates with clients via phone or writing to clarify test requests, discusses basic testing capabilities, and verifies sample details or patient history. Ensures confidentiality of correspondence and reports. Quality Assurance & Safety: Adheres to and conforms to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures. Assists in identifying incidents of nonconformance and noncompliance. Reviews quality assurance documents (Standard Operating procedures, forms, etc.)Actively participates in quality assurance and safety programs. Performs training and testing within established turnaround times. Responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals when relevant. Completes proficiency tests as assigned. Supplies, Stock, Inventory, and Equipment: Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory. Informs management when supply inventory is low, inadequate, or expired. Performs routine lab equipment maintenance such as replacing filters, replacing coverslip film, replacing and adding reagents such as alcohols, xylene, acids, buffers, and dyes in various automated machines, and lubricating microtomes. Maintains clean work areas by removing paraffin buildup, cleaning stainless steel equipment, and recycling empty jars, cardboard boxes, and paper. Administrative Roles: Completes and files electronic paperwork in a timely manner, including 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. May perform result entry and assist with routing regulatory paperwork for state and national animal health disease monitoring programs during peak testing. Teamwork & Cooperation: Works with colleagues in other testing sections and laboratories to coordinate testing for shared samples. Assists in training fellow technicians as needed. Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards, and communications. Participates in cross-training with fellow technicians. Provides backup to fellow technicians in case of absences. Other: Work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Performs work in such a way to avoid exposing others or oneself to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods. Performs other job-related duties as assigned. May participate in flex scheduling, including work prior to 8 AM, after 5 PM, on weekends, or holidays. Position Details This position is required to work onsite during normal business hours M-F 8 AM to 5 PM. TVMDL is considered an essential component of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) and remains operational for a number of “open holidays” in which compensatory time may be earned. TVMDL is located on the campus of Texas A&M University (TAMU). Parking permits are available from TAMU at the expense of the employee. This position is enrolled in TVMDL’s Salary Step Program, guaranteeing two pay increases in the first 18 months of employment for satisfactory performance. This position may have access to equine or greyhound racing records, and/or data and as such, the incumbent must have no financial interest in racehorses, racing greyhounds, or a racetrack, or any other conflict of interest within the racing industry. Furthermore, such employees shall have no investments in any racetrack nor receive any remuneration from a racetrack association, nor own or lease a racehorse or racing greyhound that is racing in the State of Texas. The incumbent may be required to consent to a background investigation through by the Texas Department of Public Safety including, but not limited to, fingerprinting of all TVMDL staff involved in drug testing for livestock and race animals. Require Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in a related field or any equivalent combination of training and experience. 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 Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in biological or animal science. Experience working in a biological lab, veterinary clinic, animal husbandry profession, or professional role working with animal tissues. Beginner Microsoft Word and Excel experience. Knowledge of basic animal anatomy; basic pathology and veterinary terminology; histology equipment such as tissue processor, embedding center, microtome, automated coverslipper, and automated stainer; and diagnostic staining techniques. Skilled in the use of dissection tools and determining precise volumes, mass, weights, and concentrations. How to Apply 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. 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.