12/07/2005 32400

LABORATORY TECHNOLOGIST

DEFINITION: This is paraprofessional laboratory work involving the performance of tests in a veterinary laboratory.

An employee in this job performs a variety of standard laboratory tests in the areas of veterinary laboratory medicine that includes microbiology, immunology, serology, chemistry, histology, and hematology. Work involves conducting a wide variety of standardized microbiological, chemical and biological tests to identify and measure the composition of organic and inorganic samples. These tests require the application of established qualitative and quantitative microbiological, chemical, and biological testing procedures to achieve valid and accurate results. Work may involve performing field surveys to collect samples requiring specialized handling or field testing. An employee in this job may function as a lead worker over Laboratory Technicians performing routine laboratory procedures. Work is assigned by a professional superior who provides assistance with problems encountered and reviews work for quality and accuracy.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Conducts laboratory tests to identify, characterize, measure or determine the nature of biological or chemical components.

Responsible for determining the best results requiring the application of microbiological, chemical, or biological knowledge and the need for further testing.

Conducts field surveys to collect samples which require either specialized sampling techniques or chemical treatment for preservation and conducts a limited number of analytical tests in the field.

Prepares samples for testing and standard solutions and reagents.

Assists Microbiologists, Chemists or Veterinarians in the conduct of detailed analysis by either manual or instrument analysis techniques.

Performs measurements utilizing automated analyzers, titration systems, spectrometers, chromatographs, spectrophotometers, ultracentrifuges, electrophoresis and particle/cell counters as well as other contemporary instrumentation utilized in biomedical research and analytical laboratories.

Maintaining records through the use of a computer and prepares reports of activities performed.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the methods, principles and practices of chemistry, microbiology, immunology/serology, quantitative and molecular biology and hematology as related to analytical testing in biomedical research and veterinary laboratory diagnostic practices and procedures.

Knowledge of contemporary laboratory equipment operation and materials.

Knowledge of the sources of information in the field of biomedical research and veterinary laboratory diagnostic practices and procedures, such as microbiology, immunology/ serology, chemistry, toxicology, histology, hematology, molecular biology and enzymology.

Knowledge of methods and practices of sample collection and preservation.

Skill in the use of various laboratory equipment and instruments.

Ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative microbiology, chemistry, biology and molecular biology, hematology, histology, toxicology and enzymology tests, procedures and practices.

Ability to clearly, accurately and effectively communicate verbally.

Ability to clearly, accurately and effectively communicate in written form and prepare concise, accurate and thorough laboratory reports.

Sufficient color perception to utilize color based testing procedures.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Associate degree in Veterinary Laboratory Technology (VLT) or Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) and one (1) year of technical laboratory experience in a biomedical research or development, clinical pathology or diagnostic laboratory;

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Two (2) years of college which includes six (6) credits in biology, three (3) credits in chemistry, and three (3) credits in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, histology or biostatistics and one (1) year of technical laboratory experience in a biomedical research or development, clinical pathology or diagnostic laboratory;

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An equivalent combination of experience and training which included one (1) year of technical laboratory experience in a biomedical research or development, clinical pathology or diagnostic laboratory, and six (6) college credits in biology, three (3) college credits in chemistry, and three (3) college credits in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, histology or biostatistics.