Diagnostic Technician - Clinical Pathology

Texas A&M University System•College Station, TX

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) is an integral part of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS), with four lab locations across Texas. TVMDL is dedicated to protecting animal and public health through diagnostic testing and is a state-of-the-art facility collecting hundreds of data points daily. It serves the veterinary community and is an independent entity from the TAMU College of Veterinary Medicine.

Requirements

High school graduation or equivalent combination of training and experience.
Knowledge of laboratory equipment, scientific apparatus, and computer equipment.
Ensures attention to detail.
Able to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in a related field or any equivalent combination of training and experience.
Clinical lab or veterinary experience, with preference given to professional lab or technician experience.
Experience working in fast paced/high volume environments.
Experience with Microsoft software (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams), Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
Understanding of veterinary and/or medical terminology and anatomic locations.
Ability to use laboratory equipment, microscopes, pipettes, and computer software.
Works well in a team; communicates with colleagues and clients; prioritizes tasks and manages competing responsibilities; and meets deadlines.
Licensed veterinary technician (LVT) or medical laboratory technician (MLT) certification.

Responsibilities

Sample Preparation, Sample Cataloging: Retrieves samples, orders appropriate testing in TVMDL’s laboratory information management system (LIMS), ensures samples are fit for purpose, and distributes them to the appropriate clinical pathology station. Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests/client instructions. May file and/or catalog samples, slides, specimens, or other diagnostic material for archival purposes.
Testing: Prepares cytological samples for pathologists. Performs hematological analysis of whole blood on an automated analyzer and manual microscopy. Performs clinical chemistry and immunoassay testing on serum/plasma using analyzers. Performs and documents required analyzer maintenance. Prepares reagents and calibrators. Verifies analyzer accuracy by running control samples and analyzing control data. Performs urinalysis using manual methods and microscopy. Processes and performs testing on various parasitology samples. Performs simple enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques and radioimmunoassays (RIAs).
Data Entry, Interpretation, Results: Reads, computes, and records observations, results, and measurements into LIMS. Ensures documentation for all tests meets quality assurance requirements. Reviews and releases accurate results. Recognizes abnormal values for further review.
Client Communication: Contacts clients to clarify basic test requests, verify sources/locations for cytologic specimens, and discuss inappropriate sample submissions.
Quality Assurance & Safety: Adheres to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures. Assists in identifying incidents of non-conformance and noncompliance. Reviews quality assurance documents to ensure clarity and performs trainings and testing. Responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation: Reads, interprets, and performs all tests in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs). Reviews and recommends changes or improvements to section SOPs, forms, or other documentation.
Research, Reference Materials, Test Development: Assists in research, cataloging reference materials, and development of new test methods as needed.
Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment: Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory. Informs management of low, inadequate, or expired inventory. Performs and documents calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
Administrative Roles: Files and scans relevant paperwork into the internal document management system. Abides by agency and state records retention and confidentiality requirements.
Training and Mentorship: Mentors and trains new technicians on proficient stations, providing guidance, advice, feedback, and support. Maintains communication with Section leadership on training progression.
Teamwork & Cooperation: Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards, and respectful communication. Participates in cross-training and provides support to fellow technicians.
Other: Works with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to promote new or modified tests and TVMDL services. Assists/hosts/leads programs for students and lab guests. Performs work in adherence to safety rules and regulations. Performs other job-related duties as required.