Part-Time Laboratory Technician

Position Title: Veterinary Laboratory Technician, PT (LT)

Department: Animal Health

Classification: Non-Exempt

Direct Report: Diagnostic Laboratory Supervisor

Position Summary

The Veterinary Laboratory Technician participates in the daily operation of the clinical diagnostic laboratory at the Georgia Aquarium (GAI) including the intake and processing of diagnostic sample submissions, organization and distribution of data, and laboratory equipment maintenance. The LT works closely with the Animal Health team and frequently interacts with other GAI teams, as well as laboratory technologists and pathologists at offsite facilities to maintain the highest standards of aquatic animal veterinary medical care for the aquarium’s wide variety of taxa.

Responsibilities:

1. Accurately and efficiently intakes and processes laboratory specimens and manages sample distribution and storage.
2. Hematological analysis on mammalian and non-mammalian specimens; including total cell counts by hemacytometer, hemoglobin (HemoCue), PCV (microhematocrit centrifuge), erythrocyte sedimentation rate, reticulocyte count, leukocyte differential, and automated complete blood counts (Heska Element HT5).
3. Clinical chemistry analysis (Abaxis VetScan, Heska DC5X, i-Stat analyzers)
4. Parasitology and cytology of terrestrial and aquatic species including direct examination, flotation, and cytology staining (Gram, Acid Fast, and manual dip-staining)
5. Performs routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting for all equipment in the laboratory
6. Proficiency in specimen handling and distribution to other laboratories.
7. Maintains specimen banking and submission logs.
8. Ensures timely reporting of laboratory results to appropriate staff
9. Proficient in medical (TRACKS and OERCA) database for laboratory reporting
10. Assists in maintaining inventory of diagnostic lab and ensures that all consumables are in date.
11. Provides guidance and training on clinical pathology to students and volunteers as needed.
12. Interacts on behalf of the Georgia Aquarium with guests, media, general public, etc.
13. Complies with all safety protocols established by GAI and/or other regulatory bodies.
14. Adheres to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
15. Performs other duties as workload necessitates.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree in biology, medical technology or veterinary technology with one year of professional experience preferred.
2. Advanced knowledge regarding biological and chemical components relevant to clinical pathology testing, including, but not limited to, hematology for mammalian, avian, reptilian and piscean species; parasitology of aquatic animals, and cytological stain preparations.
3. Competency in lab equipment maintenance, safety procedures, clean up and disposal of biohazardous waste and spills.
4. Proficiency with the following equipment: pipettes, refractometers, needles and syringes, centrifuges, etc.
5. Proficiency in computer operating systems
6. Must have the ability to communicate clearly and effectively with various levels of staff.
7. Ability to be flexible and shift priorities to meet departmental requirements and program needs.
8. Ability to maintain a high level of professionalism, integrity and confidentiality.
9. Time management - must be able to prioritize tasks and work within expected timelines

Commitment:

I commit to Georgia Aquarium, Inc. to be a part of the following:

Mission : Georgia Aquarium is a nonprofit committed to inspiring awareness and preservation of our ocean and Aquatic animals worldwide.

Vision: To be the Premier Aquarium in the World for Science, Entertainment, Education and Conservation.

Values: Respect, Teamwork, Integrity, Innovation, Leadership, Excellence, Appreciation & Inclusion