Molecular Technician, PCR

Zoetis • Dallas, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Molecular Lab Tech I position requires specialized molecular biology skills, including advanced testing, reporting, and operation of specific laboratory procedures and instruments. This role performs diagnostic testing, interprets and documents results, maintains laboratory equipment, and ensures compliance with all ZRL safety protocols and Select Agent Safety Protocols. The technician must have a solid foundation in microbiology/molecular biology, maintain strict contamination control, and utilize the Laboratory Information System (LIS) from accessioning through reporting.

Requirements

• BA/BS in Biology, or a related Science Field with 3+ Years of Diagnostic Laboratory Experience OR Certified Veterinary Technician + High School Diploma/Associates with 3+ Years of Diagnostic Laboratory Experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Platforms (Teams, Outlook, Word, etc.) and Salesforce.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment and collaborate with colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and follow instructions accurately.
• Aseptic technique skills including plating, culture work-up, and subculture of bacteria and broths.
• Culture plate reading skills for Urine, Aerobic, Skin, Fecal, and Blood cultures.
• Molecular diagnostic testing for detection of pathogens.
• Strict contamination control to ensure reliable diagnostic results.
• Knowledge of quality control and experience implementing a QC plan in daily workflow.
• Aseptic technique required.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to bend, kneel, stoop, crouch.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
• All applicants must possess or obtain authorization to work in the US for Zoetis.

Nice To Haves

• Previous work in a BSL-2 laboratory preferred.
• Precision pipetting experience preferred.
• DNA extraction experience preferred.
• Experience diluting primers and probes and calculating master mixes.
• Real-time PCR experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for setting up and performing molecular testing in accordance with laboratory standard operating procedures.
• Perform molecular testing including PCR sample processing from a variety of specimen types, sample homogenization, and total nucleic acid extraction from multiple sample types.
• Prepare dilutions of reagents, enzymes, and samples, and perform real-time PCR testing (Polymerase Chain Reaction).
• Interpret culture and/or PCR results and prepare detailed documentation of work performed.
• Enter results and complete negative culture or PCR reporting using the LIS.
• Understand and utilize the LIS for accessioning, requisition maintenance, test ordering, and batch reporting.
• Perform work in accordance with Select Agent Safety Protocols.
• Assist as needed with daily set-up processes for high specimen volumes.
• Adhere to all applicable ZRL safety procedures and protocols.
• Participate in continued training on laboratory SOPs and maintain proficiency.
• Participate in implementation of laboratory and ZRL Quality Control plans.
• May be required to complete similar responsibilities for parasitology testing.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Benefits

• competitive healthcare and retirement savings benefits
• an array of benefits, policies and programs to support employee well-being in every sense, from health and financial wellness to family and lifestyle resources

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level