Laboratory Technician II - Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory

University of Wyoming•Laramie, WY

47d•Onsite

About The Position

Join Our Campus Community! Thank you for your interest in joining the University of Wyoming.  Our community thrives on the contributions of talented and driven individuals who share in our mission, vision, and values. If your expertise and experience align with the goals of our institution, we would be thrilled to hear from you. We encourage you to apply and become a valued member of our vibrant campus community today! Why Choose Us? At the University of Wyoming, we value our employees and invest in their success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. Benefits include: Generous Retirement Contributions : The State contributes 14.94% of your gross salary, and you contribute 3.68%, totaling 18.62% toward your retirement plan. Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage : Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs . Paid Time Off : Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure. Tuition Waiver : Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth. Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs : Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources. At the University of Wyoming , we are committed to creating a supportive and enriching workplace. To learn more about what we offer, please refer to UW’s Benefits Summary . JOB PURPOSE: Operate and manage the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory (WSVL) Accessioning/Shipping & Receiving/Necropsy and Trimming Laboratories. This will include, but is not limited to the following: receiving of animal carcasses, samples/ specimens, and equipment/supplies from clients; assisting pathologists with necropsy, sample collection, and sample routing; accessioning and shipping of diagnostic specimens; specimen fixation/decalcification/trimming/and specimen maintenance in the tissue trimming laboratory; hiring, training and management of student assistant; and participation in WSVL teaching/instructional efforts including field disease investigations and assistance with research projects.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in related field (animal science, veterinary or health science, biology, anatomy/physiology or related field) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
1-2 years work-related experience in diagnostic services, veterinary medicine, laboratory procedures/techniques, or a related field.
Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with the Driving for University Business SAP .

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of diagnostic laboratory assays, protocols, and practices.
Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
Ability to perform physically demanding work that may require lifting of up to 50 lbs.
Experience in handling and collecting biological samples including whole animal carcasses, fresh and fixed tissues, blood, urine, and feces.
Ability to supervise, train, and evaluate assigned staff.
Ability to perform focused work and autonomously make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
Experience in performing, analyzing, and interpreting advanced laboratory tests.
Knowledge of safety, radiological, chemical, and biological hazards of the occupation.
Ability to travel on occasion (locally, nationally, or internationally, as needed).
Ability to communicate effectively, foster a cooperative team environment, and perform as a member of a team.
Excellent written, oral, and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

Autonomously manage and direct the daily operations of the Accessioning/Shipping & Receiving/Necropsy and Trimming Laboratories.
Perform necropsy alongside pathologists and develop skills for collection of biological specimens for diagnostic testing.
Perform dissection of animal heads for brain tissue collection and routing of tissue for rabies testing.
Independently perform routine procedures for formalin-fixed diagnostic specimens including trimming, decalcification, and maintenance of archived specimens.
Perform accessioning and shipping of diagnostic specimens.
Perform routing of diagnostic specimens to appropriate lab sections.
Collect, assimilate and record relevant information from clients upon receipt of a diagnostic submission.
Communicate directly with internal and external clients and direct questions and calls to appropriate staff.
Contribute to quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of results.
Assist with development and implementation of new laboratory procedures and methodologies as needed.
Operate and resource repair of instruments, equipment, tools, and machinery.
Assist faculty, staff, and students in the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
Participate in hiring, training, and management of undergraduate student assistants.
May assist with or teach necropsy short courses and/or workshops.
May assist with research projects and/or field investigations.
Maintain inventory and purchase laboratory supplies.
Maintain hazardous materials in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOP).
May assist in writing contracts, newsletters, and/or grants.

Benefits

Generous Retirement Contributions : The State contributes 14.94% of your gross salary, and you contribute 3.68%, totaling 18.62% toward your retirement plan.
Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage : Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs .
Paid Time Off : Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.
Tuition Waiver : Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.
Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs : Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

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