Clinical Pathology Technician - AZ - College of Veterinary Medicine

About the Role

The Clinical Pathology Technician at the Animal Health Institute (AHI) is responsible for the day-to-day operations in the clinical pathology laboratory space, located in the Companion Animal Clinic (CAC). This role involves collaboration with the veterinary laboratory team and maintaining and using standard diagnostic equipment to analyze clinical samples. The position requires close attention to detail, precision with instrumentation, excellent technical, communication, and interpersonal skills, familiarity with laboratory health and safety standards, and the ability to work independently while adapting to organizational growth and change. This position reports to the Manager of Diagnostic Pathology Center and is structured across three levels, reflecting increasing expertise, independence, problem-solving, leadership, and operational responsibility.

Responsibilities

Core Responsibilities (All Levels)

• Routine sample preparation and analysis on an Advia hematology analyzer, Beckman Coulter biochemistry analyzer, Clinitek urine chemistry analyzer, and use of a slide stainer.
• Receive, accession, and maintain inventory of samples. Prepare and send samples to outside laboratories when necessary.
• Order and maintain inventory of lab supplies, including reagents and other lab materials.
• Use and maintain knowledge of EMR and LIS systems used in the lab and troubleshoot such systems. Coordinate with AHI staff on IT issues when necessary.
• Perform regular equipment QA/QC and maintenance.
• Troubleshoot equipment and work with vendor tech support when needed. Notify AHI management and facilities of larger issues.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and team planning.
• Provide client services and communication to students, faculty, and technical staff as needed.
• Other job-related duties as assigned.

Level I

• Perform basic sample processing and testing with oversight.
• Accurately enter and maintain patient/sample records.
• Follow established SOPs and workflows.
• Assist with inventory management and stocking.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance and cleaning.
• Escalate equipment or result issues to senior staff.
• Support teaching environment (students/faculty interaction).

Level II

• Independently perform and validate diagnostic testing.
• Troubleshoot equipment, assays, and LIS/EMR issues.
• Perform and document QA/QC processes.
• Coordinate sample submissions to external laboratories.
• Assist with training and mentoring Level I technicians and students.
• Assist in development and refinement of SOPs.
• Communicate findings effectively with clinicians and faculty.
• Identify workflow inefficiencies and recommend improvements.

Level III

• Oversee daily laboratory operations and workflow efficiency.
• Lead QA/QC programs and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Serve as primary liaison for equipment vendors and technical support.
• Develop, implement, and maintain SOPs and best practices.
• Assist with training, mentoring, and assessing technicians and students.
• Support new test development and laboratory expansion initiatives.
• Partner with leadership on strategic planning and lab growth.
• Analyze lab performance metrics and implement improvements.
• Assist with budgeting, supply forecasting, and resource allocation.

Qualifications

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. A qualified applicant must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner and have reasonable, regular, in-person attendance. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

• Level I: High school diploma or GED equivalent required. 1-3 years of related experience or an Associate’s degree. Basic familiarity with laboratory equipment preferred.
• Level II: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred. 3-5 years of clinical pathology or diagnostic lab experience. Demonstrated proficiency with lab instrumentation and LIS.
• Level III: Bachelor’s degree preferred. 5+ years of advanced clinical pathology lab experience. Proven leadership, training, and operational oversight experience. Certification in H(ASCP) or equivalent clinical pathology certifications.

Computer Skills: Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Must become proficient with an integrated hospital management system; previous experience desirable.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Frequently required to stand for long periods, walk, use hands to manipulate, reach with hands and arms, talk, and hear.
• Regularly required to sit, stoop, or kneel.
• Frequently required to lift up to 20 pounds, and infrequently up to 40 pounds.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Exposure to moving mechanical parts, risk of electric shock, fumes or airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Life insurance, short/long term disability, and pet insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts including healthcare reimbursement and child/dependent care account.
• Competitive time off package including paid holidays, sick/flex days, personal days, and vacation days.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Child care subsidy reimbursement program.
• Identity theft protection and employee assistance program.
• On-site wellness facility with a fully equipped fitness center.