Laboratory Technician

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.

The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people. The college benefits pets and their owners, food-producing animals, and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health.

The College of Veterinary Medicine values all members of the university community, recognizing that differences in experience and culture can only lead to a more well-rounded, accepting academic environment as embodied in our Principles of Community http://vet.uga.edu/principles-of-community/

Monday through Friday 8:00am -5:00pm. Occasional Saturdays 7:00am - 10:00am

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

Requires technical knowledge in the field acquired through an apprenticeship, a 2-year degree, or professional certificate. Please contact your Human Resources office for an evaluation of education/experience in lieu of the required minimum qualifications.

This position will receive and accession diagnostic biological specimens submitted to the Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory as per SOP's. They will efficiently identify, classify, separate, label, and distribute different sample types suitable for a variety of veterinary diagnostic tests while maintaining sample integrity and following biosafety procedures. They will perform data entry consistent with sample submissions. They will professionally communicate about appropriate sample collection, sample shipping, and diagnostic tests with internal and external customers providing information and assist in problem resolution. They will prepare and coordinate the safe packaging and distribution of biological samples, while maintaining sample viability, to external and internal organizations, including deliver and collection of samples from multiple UGA sites.

Knowledge of proper handling techniques for diagnostic specimen. Excellent computer skills in Excel, Word, and Acrobat are also required. Ability to make simple mathematical calculations and tabulations rapidly and accurately. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. This position requires a highly organized person with the ability to multitask and effectively interact with various personalities in the laboratory and in the general public. Resourcefulness, creativity analytical skills are highly desirable. Ability to communicate verbally in a friendly and non-confrontational manner. Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.

1. The successful applicant should have excellent manual dexterity
2. Lift with assistance up to 50 Lbs, and unassisted up to 30 pounds.
3. See details and colors to correctly interpret laboratory results.
4. Typical laboratory environment including exposure to chemicals and odors.
5. May need to stand for extended periods of time.

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Efficiently processes, validates, accessions, and distributes different veterinary biological diagnostic specimens for testing to laboratory sections, consistent with standard operating procedures, while maintaining sample integrity and following biosafety procedures.

Respectfully and expeditiously communicate about diagnostic biological samples and diagnostic tests, including problem resolution, with internal and external customers

Prepare and coordinate the safe packaging and distribution of biological laboratory samples to external organizations as per SOPs

Safely transport diagnostic biological specimens including but not limited to EDTA whole blood, heparinized blood, serum, formalin-fixed tissues, fresh tissue, slides, swabs, and urine to and from the Veterinary Medical Center