Diagnostic Technician I or II - NGS

Kansas State University

About the role

This position is for a BSL-2 Laboratory Diagnostic Technician I or II - Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) within the Kansas Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (KVDL). The primary responsibility is to support diagnostic testing activities, with a focus on performing wet-lab workflows required to produce accurate and timely test results for clinical cases. Responsibilities include processing veterinary diagnostic specimens through nucleic acid extraction and purification, PCR-based testing, NGS library preparation, sequencing, quality control, and laboratory documentation in accordance with established SOPs, quality standards, and accreditation requirements.

The position will operate multiple NGS platforms, including but not limited to Illumina and Oxford Nanopore, following established protocols. The role will perform routine diagnostic and NGS workflows under the guidance of the NGS Section Head and in collaboration with the NGS team, supporting laboratory operations and service objectives.

• Maintaining laboratory supplies and inventory
• Assisting with SOP documentation
• Assisting with training of student workers
• Participating in training and educational activities
• Supporting laboratory safety and compliance

Worksite

This position is on-site. All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

Requirements

Diagnostic Technician I: Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) and two years of relevant experience. Requirements may be met through a combination of education and experience.

Diagnostic Technician II: Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) and four years of relevant experience. Requirements may be met through a combination of education and experience.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with NGS data analysis and interpretation with focus on pathogen detection and microbial genomics
• Familiarity with Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, and PacBio NGS platforms

Pay

$16.76–$32.05 hourly. Hiring manager will determine appropriate position level based on candidate education, experience, and department needs.