Pathology Technician I - 1 Year Temporary - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance•San Diego, CA

1d•$26•Onsite

About The Position

The Pathology Technician I performs assigned necropsy and histopathology laboratory duties in support of diagnostic pathology services, conservation research programs, and other initiatives. This is a starting level veterinary pathology technician position that will assist all aspects of the diagnostic pathology service at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. This position will specifically support the existing team’s capacity to manage cases in California native wildlife received through a partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The candidate should be detail-oriented, adaptable, and have experience with data entry and sample management. They should enjoy working as part of a team of like-minded individuals committed to using diagnostic pathology to benefit wildlife health and conservation.

Requirements

At least one year experience with ante or postmortem animal handling or examinations, animal dissections, pathology laboratory work, or other equivalent experience required
Bachelor’s Degree in biological sciences or related field or equivalent specialized training required.
Able to visually identify and describe anatomic tissues using standard medical terminology and excellent writing skills.
Demonstrated ability to safely work with medical equipment, biohazardous materials, chemicals, and certain machinery in a laboratory environment
Proficient in data and record keeping.
Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs.
Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Able to work effectively with others in a diverse environment
Able to attend to the needs of assigned research collections and/or community members.

Nice To Haves

At least one year experience with science communication or interpretation of scientific concepts preferred

Responsibilities

Conducts post-mortem examinations (necropsies/ animal autopsies) on a wide variety of animals, collects tissue samples, and prepares detailed written reports of findings, under the supervision of a board certified veterinary pathologist.
Prepares tissues for histologic processing and other procedures and assists with histology laboratory operations.
Organizes and maintains databases of pathology records, samples, and tissues; fulfills research sample requests; and ships samples to internal and external laboratories and researchers.
Maintains laboratory facilities and equipment, inventories laboratory supplies, and requisitions replacements.
Assists with supervision and teaching of visiting students and trainees in the necropsy and histopathology laboratories.
Takes and files gross photographs of tissues for review by pathologists.