Laboratory Technician II - Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory

UW Candidate Experience • Laramie, WY

48d • Onsite

About The Position

Operate and manage the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory (WSVL) Accessioning/Shipping & Receiving/Necropsy and Trimming Laboratories. This will include, but is not limited to the following: receiving of animal carcasses, samples/ specimens, and equipment/supplies from clients; assisting pathologists with necropsy, sample collection, and sample routing; accessioning and shipping of diagnostic specimens; specimen fixation/decalcification/trimming/and specimen maintenance in the tissue trimming laboratory; hiring, training and management of student assistant; and participation in WSVL teaching/instructional efforts including field disease investigations and assistance with research projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in related field (animal science, veterinary or health science, biology, anatomy/physiology or related field) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1-2 years work-related experience in diagnostic services, veterinary medicine, laboratory procedures/techniques, or a related field.
• Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with the Driving for University Business SAP.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of diagnostic laboratory assays, protocols, and practices.
• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work that may require lifting of up to 50 lbs.
• Experience in handling and collecting biological samples including whole animal carcasses, fresh and fixed tissues, blood, urine, and feces.
• Ability to supervise, train, and evaluate assigned staff.
• Ability to perform focused work and autonomously make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in performing, analyzing, and interpreting advanced laboratory tests.
• Knowledge of safety, radiological, chemical, and biological hazards of the occupation.
• Ability to travel on occasion (locally, nationally, or internationally, as needed).
• Ability to communicate effectively, foster a cooperative team environment, and perform as a member of a team.
• Excellent written, oral, and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Autonomously manage and direct the daily operations of the Accessioning/Shipping & Receiving/Necropsy and Trimming Laboratories.
• Perform necropsy alongside pathologists and develop skills for collection of biological specimens for diagnostic testing.
• Perform dissection of animal heads for brain tissue collection and routing of tissue for rabies testing.
• Independently perform routine procedures for formalin-fixed diagnostic specimens including trimming, decalcification, and maintenance of archived specimens.
• Perform accessioning and shipping of diagnostic specimens.
• Perform routing of diagnostic specimens to appropriate lab sections.
• Collect, assimilate and record relevant information from clients upon receipt of a diagnostic submission.
• Communicate directly with internal and external clients and direct questions and calls to appropriate staff.
• Contribute to quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of results.
• Assist with development and implementation of new laboratory procedures and methodologies as needed.
• Operate and resource repair of instruments, equipment, tools, and machinery.
• Assist faculty, staff, and students in the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Participate in hiring, training, and management of undergraduate student assistants.
• May assist with or teach necropsy short courses and/or workshops.
• May assist with research projects and/or field investigations.
• Maintain inventory and purchase laboratory supplies.
• Maintain hazardous materials in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOP).
• May assist in writing contracts, newsletters, and/or grants.

Benefits

• Generous Retirement Contributions: The State contributes 14.94% of your gross salary, and you contribute 3.68%, totaling 18.62% toward your retirement plan.
• Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage: Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs.
• Paid Time Off: Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.
• Tuition Waiver: Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs: Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees