Microbiology Technician- AZ - College of Veterinary Medicine

Microbiology TechnicianThe Microbiology Technician at the Animal Health Institute (AHI) is responsible for the day-to-day operations in the microbiology laboratory, located in the Companion Animal Clinic (CAC). This job will require close attention to detail, excellent technical, communication, and interpersonal skills, familiarity with laboratory health and safety standards and protocols, an ability to work independently, and a willingness to be flexible and adaptable to organizational growth and change. This position reports to the Manager of Diagnostic Pathology Center.Core Responsibilities (All Levels):Accessioning of clinical specimens submitted to the Microbiology Laboratory for diagnostic work up.Process a variety of clinical specimens for primary isolation and identification of bacterial and fungal pathogens.Use diagnostic equipment and molecular methods, such as the Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), for identification of bacterial, yeast and viral pathogens.Perform DNA and RNA isolation.Perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing.Perform parasite identification.Report test results to clients.Maintain laboratory equipment.Ensure adequate inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents.Ship and archive samples as needed.Develop and maintain records and support quality assurance and compliance responsibilities.Develop, review and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs).Maintain a safe work environment following OSHA requirements and institutional policies.Maintain and update safety data sheets (SDS).Other job-related duties as assignedLevel IPrimary Focus: Execution of core and key lab responsibilities. Training and support will be provided while developing technical proficiency.Key Responsibilities:Perform basic sample processing and testing with oversightAccurately enter and maintain patient/sample recordsFollow established SOPs and workflowsAssist with inventory management and stockingPerform basic equipment maintenance and cleaningEscalate equipment or result issues to senior staffSupport teaching environment (students/faculty interaction)Level IIPrimary Focus: Execution of core and key lab responsibilities. Independent operation with strong troubleshooting skills and workflow ownership.Key Responsibilities:Independently perform and validate diagnostic testingTroubleshoot equipment, assays, and LIS/EMR issuesPerform and document QA/QC processesCoordinate sample submissions to external laboratoriesAssist with training and mentoring Level I technicians and studentsAssist in development and refinement of SOPsCommunicate findings effectively with clinicians and facultyIdentify workflow inefficiencies and recommend improvementsLevel IIIPrimary Focus: Execution of core and key lab responsibilities. Provides expertise in lab operations, quality assurance, training, and process optimization.Key Responsibilities:Oversee daily laboratory operations and workflow efficiencyLead QA/QC programs and ensure regulatory complianceServe as primary liaison for equipment vendors and technical supportDevelop, implement, and maintain SOPs and best practicesAssist with training, mentoring, and assessing technicians and studentsSupport new test development and laboratory expansion initiativesPartner with leadership on strategic planning and lab growthAnalyze lab performance metrics and implement improvementsAssist with budgeting, supply forecasting, and resource allocationQualifications:Excellent oral and written communication.Confident general computer skills (e.g. outlook, word, excel).EMR and/or other laboratory related software experienceLaboratory QZ/QC and record keeping.Basic bacteriology/microbiology laboratory skills.Proactive personality.Education and/or ExperienceLevel 1Bachelor's degree1-3 years of related experienceBasic familiarity with laboratory equipment preferredLevel IIBachelor's degree3-5 years microbiology or diagnostic lab experienceDemonstrated proficiency with lab instrumentation and LISLevel 3Bachelor's degree5+ years microbiology lab experienceProven leadership, training, and operational oversight experienceASCP Certification in Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS), or Microbiology (M ASCP).Computer Skills: Computer proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook).Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to frequently stand for short periods of time, walk, and use hands to handle or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to sit, talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. The employee must occasionally lift and /or move up to 40 lbs.Animal Allergies Statement: No inhibiting allergies to animals, hay, or dust.Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. In the position fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals will be regularly present. Occasionally there will be a risk of electrical shock, risk of radiation and vibration of equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Midwestern University