Laboratory Microbiology and PCR Technician - Hagyard Equine Medical Insitute at PetVet Care Centers in Lexington, KY

Job description

• PetVet Care Centers' Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is currently seeking a Laboratory Microbiology and PCR Technician to join their team!
• Position: Laboratory Microbiology and PCR Technician, Medical Technologist - Generalist
• Location: Hagyard Laboratory
• Reports to: Lab Manager

Responsibilities

• Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
• Perform laboratory analysis of specimens from all patients in the clinical areas of hematology, chemistry, coagulation, microbiology, and special tests using established protocol and Quality control checks.
• Provide support to all areas within the laboratory including chemistry, hematology, endocrinology, Coggins, microbiology, and administrative functions.
• Report results as required adhering to established techniques and guidelines.
• Perform daily quality control on automated equipment to assure high quality of performance.
• Assist with preventative maintenance guidelines as directed to ensure proper function and efficiency of lab equipment and instruments.
• Report inventory and laboratory material and supply shortages to appropriate department heads and order only as directed.
• Restock supplies and tools in all areas as needed daily.
• Assist in orienting and training new employees with job responsibilities and techniques.
• Provide theoretical and technical information to other laboratory personnel, techs, or veterinarians regarding laboratory data and technical requirements.
• Adhere to hospital and laboratory policies, procedures, objectives, and quality assurance programs.
• Maintain efficient and clean workspaces adhering to OSHA guidelines and laboratory policies.
• Attend meetings as required and participate in external industry related functions as directed.
• Enhance professional growth through participation in educational workshops, reading current literature, and attending educational programs.
• Complete and contribute to special projects as assigned.
• Process patient specimens utilizing the hematology analyzer. Identify any instrument errors, troubleshoot, and communicate with approved service providers as needed to resolve equipment problems.
• Read and interpret abnormal white blood cell counts utilizing the microscope.
• Process fluid analysis specimens and cytology specimens efficiently and accurately.
• Process fibrinogen request as directed in per the laboratory procedure manual.
• Run urinalysis as directed in procedure manual.
• Process NI Screen’s, JFA’s, and cross matches as directed in procedure manual.
• Process patient specimens utilizing the chemistry analyzer. Identify any instrument errors, troubleshoot, and communicate with approved service providers as needed to resolve equipment problems.
• Run specialized chemistry tests: i.e.: Ammonia, Triglycerides, running controls as outlined in the procedure manual prior to processing the specimen.
• Run blood gases, ionized calcium, SAA, PT and PTT specimens as outlined in the laboratory procedures.
• Restock and formulate reagents as needed and adhering to laboratory guidelines.
• Prepare reagents and perform endocrinology testing including Progesterones, T4, and PMSG utilizing the TOSOH as needed.
• Prepare, set up and interpret results of Coggins samples according to federal USDA guidelines (Requires federal certification).
• Federal certification of Coggins will require an employee to either do on-line training or be sent to NVSL for Coggins training. Hagyard’s will pay for training, in return for 2 years of service.
• Prepare and plate all specimens as directed in the laboratory procedure manual in an efficient and timely manner.
• Process kit tests for Rotavirus, Clostridium difficile toxin and Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxin samples.
• Process, read and report fecal egg counts.
• Report significant findings to appropriate veterinarian and infectious disease officer as directed.
• Restock primary bench daily.
• Provide telephone and reception report to lab administrative throughout shifts.
• Record receipt of specimen and create accurate lab requisitions properly labeling and distributing specimens to required departments for timely processing.
• Follow up and investigate incomplete specimen information as needed.
• Assist clients and visitors with questions and issues, referring significant issues to department head and lab supervisor.
• Prepare external/send out specimens to be performed at a reference lab completing proper forms and packaging as necessary following federal shipping requirements.
• Process STAT tests, critical specimens, and emergency requests as directed.
• Review and sign laboratory procedure manuals in all areas at least once annually ensuring knowledge of updated procedures and policies

Requirements

• Display a positive image of HDM by demonstrating courteous and professional behavior toward clients, veterinarians, visitors, interns, technicians, and other employees
• To treat other people with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.
• To be dependable and punctual on working hours scheduled and to be willing to stay beyond scheduled hours if needed.
• To assist in achieving and maintaining high quality standards in the overall services provided to clients and doctors.
• To be a self-starter and take the required initiative to perform all tasks successfully.
• To maintain confidentiality with regards to client-patient rights.
• To conduct oneself professionally as a representative of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute refraining from inappropriate language and behavior.
• To constructively communicate progress, problems or other issues requiring attention to the appropriate doctor or member of management.
• To foster teamwork by working with area members to find solutions to problems or needs regarding clients, patient care, operational needs, and the working environment.
• To identify ways to motivate and encourage area members.
• To offer solutions and demonstrate a positive attitude when dealing with clients, doctors, management, staff members, and outside vendors or suppliers.
• To give guidance to other personnel in understanding the importance of adhering to procedures and proper protocol.
• To maintain a professional appearance and a courteous attitude.
• To maintain a clean/sanitary and well-organized work/service area at all times.
• Professional demeanor
• Respects confidentiality of client/patient data.
• Strong oral communication skills.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Strong computer skills.
• Detail oriented and able to take directions.
• Organized, dedicated, friendly and responsible.
• Punctual and low absenteeism.
• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to be considered for this position
• Must be a Medical Technologist (MT, ASCP certified or AMT), Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT, ASCP certified or AMT) or equivalent (adequate on the job training).
• Previous equine/animal laboratory experience is preferred
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general technical procedures. Ability to write/document technical information and general correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from doctors, other staff and clients.
• Ability to apply intermediate math formulas.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• To perform this job successfully, an individual should have general computer software knowledge and keyboarding skills.

Skills

Required

• General computer software knowledge
• Keyboarding skills

Benefits

• We care deeply about supporting our team members — professionally and personally. Benefits include:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
• 401(k) with discretionary contribution
• Team Member Pet Discounts
• Emotional wellbeing support — including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• CE stipends and career development resources
• Grant Circle — a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources
• $22—$33 USD