Clinical Pathology Technician - AZ - College of Veterinary Medicine

Clinical Pathology TechnicianThe Clinical Pathology Technician at the Animal Health Institute (AHI) is responsible for the day-to-day operations in the clinical pathology laboratory space, located in the Companion Animal Clinic (CAC). Activities will include collaboration with the veterinary laboratory team and maintaining and using standard diagnostic equipment to analyze clinical samples. This job will require close attention to detail and awareness of precision instrumentation, 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.This position is structured across three levels, reflecting increasing levels of technical expertise, independence, problem-solving, leadership, and operational responsibility.Core Responsibilities (All Levels)Routine sample preparation and analysis on an Advia hematology analyzer, Beckman Coulter biochemistry analyzer, Clinitek urine chemistry analyzer, and use of a slide stainerReceive, accession and maintain inventory of samples. Prepare and send samples to outside laboratories when necessary.Order and maintain inventory of lab supplies, including reagents and other lab materials.Use and maintain knowledge of EMR and LIS systems used in lab and know how to troubleshoot such systems. Coordinate and interact with Animal Health Institute (AHI) staff on IT issues when necessaryPerform regular equipment QA/QC and maintenanceTroubleshoot equipment and work with vendor tech support when needed. Notify AHI management and facilities on larger issuesParticipate in laboratory meetings and team planningProvide client services and communication to students, faculty, and technical staff as neededOther 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 allocationQualificationsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. A qualified applicant must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner and have reasonable, regular, in-person attendance. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Education and/or ExperienceLevel 1High school diploma or GED equivalent required1-3 years of related experience or an Associates degreeBasic familiarity with laboratory equipment preferredLevel IIAssociate's or Bachelor's degree preferred3-5 years clinical pathology or diagnostic lab experienceDemonstrated proficiency with lab instrumentation and LISLevel IIIBachelor's degree preferred5+ years advanced clinical pathology lab experienceProven leadership, training, and operational oversight experienceCertification in H(ASCP) or equivalent clinical pathology certificationsComputer Skills:Computer proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Must become proficient with an integrated hospital management system; previous experience desirable.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 the job, the employee is frequently required to stand for long periods, walk, use hands to manipulate, reach with hands and arms, talk, and hear. This individual is regularly required to sit, stoop, or kneel. This individual will frequently be required to lift up to 20 pounds, and infrequently up to 40 pounds.Work Environment:The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. This individual will be exposed to: moving mechanical parts, risk of electric shock, fumes or airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals. 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.