HC Pro 1-Clinical Lab Science

The position supports the diagnostic and production activities of the Laboratory for Udder Health (LUH) within the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory by performing microbiological testing, culture media preparation, and quality assurance processes. The role contributes to accurate, timely diagnostic results and high-quality product delivery that support animal health and client needs. Success requires strong attention to detail, technical proficiency in laboratory practices, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. A commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement is essential.

Responsibilities

• 45% Testing/General Laboratory Responsibilities
  • Perform microbiological testing and related procedures in accordance with established protocols.
  • Set up and prepare samples for diagnostic testing, accurately interpret results, and ensure proper documentation in LIMS.
  • Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory instruments to ensure reliable and consistent performance.
  • Respond to Oceasoft alerts, investigate issues, and ensure timely resolution.
  • Provide responsive customer service by addressing phone calls, emails, and client inquiries.
  • Assist with inventory management, including preparation and restocking of laboratory supplies.
  • Follow laboratory safety procedures, biosafety guidelines, and regulatory protocols at all times.
  • Perform general laboratory maintenance such as supply stocking, transporting biohazardous waste to the autoclave room, and maintaining cleanliness.
  • Conduct daily quality control on prepared media, including contamination checks, growth pattern assessment, and record-keeping.
  • Review relevant literature to remain current on diagnostic testing as directed.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• 25% Media Laboratory Responsibilities
  • Perform quality control and maintenance of culture media in accordance with protocols.
  • Stamp and process media, prepare plate orders, and package shipments for clients.
  • Create and affix shipping labels, transport packages to designated docks, and record charges in the shipping system.
  • Provide backup support for media laboratory and student responsibilities as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• 15% Expanded Laboratory Duties-LUH
  • Keep up to date on email and client communication: MNEasyOrder@umn.edu.
  • Assist with drafting, revising, and editing SOPs, forms, and related documentation.
  • Assist with the implementation of new diagnostic tests to expand capabilities.
  • Identify areas for improvement and recommend efficiency enhancements to supervisor.
  • Troubleshoot equipment, procedures, and diagnostic processes as needed.
  • Receive supplies, verify against orders, record in the chemical log as appropriate, and label chemicals according to SOPs.
  • Support research initiatives and participate in special projects.
  • Maintain and document assigned equipment in Q-Pulse.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• 10% Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QAQC)
  • Participate in quality assurance activities in accordance with the VDL Quality Manual (SYS.QM.001) and System Policies (SYS.POLICY.001).
  • Perform all procedures according to VDL SOPs.
  • Assist in the detection and review of nonconforming work, determination of corrective/preventive actions, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Review and update CV or resume annually, providing a copy to supervisor as needed.
• 5% Safety
  • Employee is trained to follow the lab safety plan created by the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, or an equivalent schedule as arranged with the supervisor. The employee is required to work select University of Minnesota holidays. Overtime may be required based on operational needs. Occasional weekend or other non-standard hours may be required as needed.

Qualifications

• Required Qualification: BA/BS degree or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least four years.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Coursework in laboratory science or prior laboratory experience.
  • Demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and self-motivation.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Commitment to quality, integrity, and attention to detail in all aspects of work.

About the Department

The University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) is a national leader in providing rapid diagnosis of animal diseases, identifying emerging diseases, developing new diagnostic methods, and training diagnosticians and veterinarians. The VDL serves the interests of the livestock and poultry industry, animal research scientists and educators, and companion animal owners. We provide strong support to the state as the official laboratory of the Minnesota Board of Animal Health as well as supporting the national animal and human health system. The laboratory is a part of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and serves as Minnesota’s only full-service laboratory for animal health diagnosis.

Pay

Pay Range: $31.93-$23.01 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Benefits

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off.
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program.
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• University HSA contributions.
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance.
• Employee wellbeing program.
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity.
• Financial counseling services.
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost.
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area.