Medical Technologist

Penn State University • University Park, IL

6d • $54,060 - $78,444

About The Position

The Penn State Animal Diagnostic Laboratory (ADL) is seeking a Medical Technologist to provide diagnostic support, primarily in the receiving section of a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. The laboratory’s primary purpose is to protect animal and human health and ensure food safety.

The role includes handling blood and other specimens from avian and mammalian species; evaluating and processing samples delivered to ADL; entering data into the laboratory information management system (LIMS); and preparing diagnostic specimens for shipment to other laboratories. The technologist also supports standard operating procedures, quality assurance and quality control practices, supply inventory, work-area maintenance, and workload coverage. The position includes assisting with student and visitor learning experiences in serology techniques and cross-training in other laboratory areas as needs arise. Duties may shift to related disciplines as diagnostic tests are replaced or added.

The position is funded for one year. Continuation beyond one year depends on university need, performance, and/or funding availability. Rabies vaccination and biannual titer checks are required and are provided and paid for by the University.

Requirements

• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail, good judgment, and the ability to work effectively within a team.
• Rabies vaccination and biannual titer checks are required; the University provides and pays for them.
• Associate degree; previous relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of education.
• Successful completion of required background check(s).
• Must be authorized to work in the United States; Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment visa.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree in animal sciences, biology, microbiology, or another related field.
• Previous clinical laboratory experience handling hazardous materials.
• Knowledge of animal health and animal agriculture.

Responsibilities

• Handle blood samples and other specimens from avian and mammalian species.
• Evaluate and process samples delivered to the Animal Diagnostic Laboratory.
• Enter data into the laboratory information management system (LIMS).
• Prepare diagnostic specimens for shipment to other laboratories.
• Assist with maintaining standard operating procedures and quality assurance and quality control practices.
• Maintain supply inventory and work areas.
• Help ensure coverage of the workload.
• Assist with student and visitor learning experiences in serology techniques.
• Cross-train in other areas of the diagnostic laboratory as needs arise.
• Perform related diagnostic laboratory duties as tests are replaced or added.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement plans.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.
• Rabies vaccination and biannual titer checks provided and paid for by the University.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree