Serology Technician, Diagnostic Services Unit - Calgary, Canada - The University of Calgary

The University of Calgary

Verified Company

Calgary, Canada

3 weeks ago

Posted by:

Sophia Lee

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Description

Position Overview

The Serology Laboratory Technician is a member of the Diagnostic Services Unit (DSU) of the University of Calgary, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM).

Reporting to the DSU Manager and receiving day-to-day direction from the Poultry Pathologist and Veterinary Professionals, the Serology Technician carries out various activities that support the serology and parasitology lab.

This individual will work closely with the Poultry Pathologist in the set-up and growth of a new lab to support the livestock industry and broader veterinary community in Alberta.

The work requires a high degree of judgment, decision making, and confidentiality, all within an environment where there are interruptions and competing interests.

The work is of varying complexity and may have peak periods and short timelines for completion.

Position Description

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

Works as part of a team to support teaching and service activities of the DSU, interacting with a variety of stakeholders. Responsible for working effectively under the day-to-day direction of the Poultry Pathologist
Prepare samples, dilute, process, incubate, read and report test results from ELISA procedures for serum antibody detection
Label, process, centrifuge and identify parasite ova, cysts, larva and adults using direct flotation and concentration methods
Identify pathogens in a wide variety of mammalian, avian, and exotic species
Maintain, record and review results from biological and physical testing of each submission into the LIMS. Presents results to the Poultry Pathologist or Veterinary Professionals
Participates in development and adherence to quality assurance / quality control program for lab, including writing, reviewing and revising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Maintains quality standards and participates in proficiency testing to meet accreditation standards including acceptance/rejection criteria, report on nonconforming tests, adequate audit trail from receipt to disposal
Develops and validates new methods initiated by the Poultry Pathologist or DSU Director. Research appropriate new methods for adoption by the lab for improved pathogen detection
Maintains inventory for consumables, PPE, commercial identification systems, biochemical tests, and reagents. Disposes of outdated stock through HazMat and Chematix
Oversees maintenance and operation of laboratory equipment and performs associated documentation of any work, alterations, enhancements, and calibrations
Observes appropriate biosecurity procedures for invasive and pathogenic organisms, some of which are zoonotic
Disposes of pathogens by sterilization and medical waste company; washes, prepares and sterilizes lab glassware
Identifies problems and takes appropriate actions to resolve them independently or seeks the advice of the appropriate person
Demonstrates flexibility and adjusts levels of service delivery to meet the timelines and varying peaks in workload
Performs at a very high degree of accuracy and efficiency with an understanding that services have a direct impact on service, research and teaching. Interacts with faculty members, staff members, students and clients in an effective, positive and helpful manner
Ensures related University, UCVM and DSU policies and procedures are adhered to at all times

Qualifications / Requirements:

A Bachelor of Science degree in a related field or certification as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) (Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science-CSMLS), Medical Technologist (MT) (American Medical Technologists-AMT), Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) (ASCP), Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) (ASCP), or equivalent
A minimum of two years of experience in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory or combination of relevant education and experience is required
Knowledge and experience with immunological techniques and terminology, theories and principles relevant to the methods used for the direct and indirect (antibody) detection of veterinary pathogens
Knowledge and experience with parasitological techniques and terminology, theories and principles relevant to the methods used for diagnosis of veterinary pathogens
Must have previous experience writing SOPs and setting up a quality assurance/quality control program for a laboratory
Detect technical/analytical errors, systematically identify the source of the error and quickly resolve the problem to ensure compliance with SOP's and procedures
Proficient in the operation, monitoring, maintenance and troubleshooting of diagnostic laboratory equipment
Ability to tailor individual and unique support for a variety of stakeholder and project needs
Ability to push, pull, lift or carry moderate weight

lbs