Technician, Clinical C

Technician, Clinical C

The primary function of this position is to perform laboratory testing on companion animals using both automated and manual techniques in all sections of the lab; this includes hematology, chemistry, coagulation, cytology, blood banking, and immunology.

The Clinical Laboratory Technician C performs clinical laboratory testing on companion animal specimens using both automated and manual techniques across multiple areas of the laboratory, including hematology, chemistry, coagulation, cytology, blood banking, and immunology. This position is responsible for accurate specimen processing and testing, quality control, review and release of laboratory results, and communication of abnormal findings.

The Clinical Laboratory Technician C also serves as an experienced technical resource within the laboratory, assisting with complex or problematic specimens, troubleshooting instrumentation and testing issues, training other technicians, and supporting the efficient day-to-day operation of the laboratory. The role requires independent judgment, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Job Responsibilities

Prepare and test clinical laboratory specimens according to established protocols using automated and manual testing methodologies across multiple laboratory disciplines.

Perform daily quality control procedures; identify and report abnormal findings and resolve basic quality control issues. Oversee instrument calibrations, lot changes, implementation of new quality control materials, and startup of laboratory analyzers.

Apply advanced quality control principles, including interpretation and application of Westgard Rules, and assist in identifying and managing trends or errors.

Accession specimens and assist other technicians with accessioning during periods of high workload. Answer phones and prepare specimens for shipment to outside laboratories.

Review and release laboratory results and communicate abnormal or unexpected findings to pathologists, clinicians, supervisors, and other appropriate staff. Enter and release outside laboratory results and reports.

Train and assess clinical laboratory technicians, including new employees, in instrument operation, troubleshooting, quality control testing and interpretation, routine and preventive maintenance, and proper specimen handling.

Develop and provide continuing education, training materials, and maintenance-of-proficiency resources for laboratory staff.

Assist with complicated or problematic specimens and perform analysis on more difficult samples. Serve as a technical resource for challenging cases and research-related testing.

Develop, document, and maintain laboratory procedures and protocols and provide feedback regarding established testing procedures and workflows.

Maintain laboratory organization and inventory, including monitoring, ordering, and restocking laboratory supplies.

Maintain working knowledge of the laboratory information system, including adding test information, assisting with technician setup, and searching or retrieving laboratory information.

Provide functional leadership and support laboratory operations in the absence of management, including responding to questions from clinicians, arranging staff duties, and helping ensure completion of daily work.

Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

Associate's degree or two-year college equivalent and 35 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Previous laboratory experience and demonstrated knowledge of clinical laboratory testing techniques, methodologies, instrumentation, and quality control practices.

Ability to perform and troubleshoot both automated and manual laboratory testing.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify and evaluate varied laboratory problems and determine appropriate solutions.

Ability to exercise independent judgment while following established laboratory procedures, quality standards, and safety protocols.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize work and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced clinical laboratory environment.

Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to communicate laboratory findings with clinicians, pathologists, supervisors, and colleagues.

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a clinical laboratory team.

Ability to train, orient, and provide technical guidance to other laboratory staff.

Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel and the ability to learn and effectively use laboratory information systems.

Preferred:

Bachelor's degree in a related scientific or laboratory discipline.

Experience working in a veterinary or clinical diagnostic laboratory.

Experience with hematology, chemistry, coagulation, cytology, blood banking, and/or immunology testing.

Experience with advanced laboratory quality control, analyzer calibration, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.

Experience training or serving in a lead capacity with clinical laboratory staff.

Experience with Orchard or a comparable laboratory information system.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

School of Veterinary Medicine

Pay Range

$19.81 - $31.80 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

The University of Pennsylvania