Necropsy Technician

Mississippi State University•Starkville, MS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Provide support to veterinary pathologists, residents, and students during post mortem examinations. Duties include active participation in necropsy procedures for a wide range of animal species (mammalian, avian, reptile, etc.) and maintaining necropsy laboratory facilities and equipment in a clean, organized, and ready to use condition. This position requires regular communication and coordination with pathology faculty, other necropsy staff, sample receiving staff, case submitters, and other laboratory personnel.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to lift, move, or carry up to and occasionally over 50 lbs.
Ability to pass Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) Medical Clearance for use of PAPRs when needed.
Excellent written, interpersonal, and verbal communication skills.
Excellent multitasking skills.
Excellent time management and prioritization.
Skill in the use of computers and working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software packages.
Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
Skill in providing guidance and instruction in laboratory protocols and in the safe use of laboratory equipment.
Proactivity and initiative.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.
Experience with animal care and handling.

Responsibilities

Maintain cleanliness of floors, walls, tables, countertops, sinks, cabinets, equipment, and instruments in the necropsy, cooler, digester, and loading dock areas daily before and after necropsy activities.
Assist with the performance of necropsies, including preliminary setup and opening of the animal carcasses.
Assist in the collection and labeling of tissue samples for ancillary testing and coordinate preparation of samples for submission to diagnostic laboratories.
Operate, maintain, and ensure the safe use and proper function of necropsy-related equipment, including hoists, winches, bandsaws, and the forklift.
Maintain adequate supplies, solutions, fixatives, disinfectants, and equipment required for necropsy procedures and sample collection.
Manage the proper disposition of animal remains, including operating the incinerators in accordance with safety and regulatory requirements.
Maintain the cleanliness and availability of laboratory coats, coveralls, and other personal protection equipment (PPE) used by pathologists, residents, students, and other laboratory personnel.
Be responsible for inventory, including determining needs and ordering necropsy supplies and equipment, and scheduling equipment maintenance.
Ensure that all safety and biosecurity regulations are strictly followed.
Gross sectioning of necropsy specimens for histologic processing for pathologists.
Serve as a liaison with Sample Receiving personnel to ensure smooth coordination of necropsy cases and sample handling.
Cross-train in Sample Receiving and aid in other sections when needed.
Routinely assist with staining, cover slipping, and digitally scanning cytologic and histologic slides.
Support and participate in the laboratory quality assurance program.
Participate in the laboratory's response to foreign animal disease investigations or outbreak situations.
Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and federal guidelines related to biosecurity and waste disposal.
Participate in the process of interviewing, hiring, and scheduling necropsy student workers and oversee their daily duties.
Perform other related duties as assigned.