The Texas A&M University System

Agency

Department

General Description:  The Diagnostic Technician, under general supervision, performs tests that help determine the presence of certain pathogens to aid in the diagnosis or movement of animals and animal products. The Virology Section is a fast-paced laboratory that conducts tests on animal samples submitted by veterinarians and animal owners. This role requires attention to detail, effective communication skills, manual dexterity, excellent time management abilities, as well as the ability to stay organized, maintain focus under pressure, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. 

This is not a research position, but a role that will allow the employee to perform testing on diagnostic samples from both livestock and companion animals.  This position will prepare and test serum, blood, swabs, semen, feces, and tissue samples for diagnostic, import, export, and regulatory purposes. Common methods include cell culture, virus isolation, direct and indirect fluorescent antibody (FA, IFA), agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and hemagglutination inhibition (HI). Timeliness, accuracy, and the ability to remain focused in a high-volume work environment are vital in this position, as well as a service mindset and strong work ethic.

The Diagnostic Technician will join a dedicated Virology team of 5 members to process varying numbers of samples per day.  While daily assays may vary based on need, this role involves the performance of routine, repetitive tasks to generate high-quality results for our clients. 

Sample Prep, Sample Cataloging:

Retrieves samples, visually analyze samples for quality, and order appropriate tests in TVMDL’s computer-based laboratory information management system (LIMS). Review submittal forms and interpret test requests/client instructions. May file and catalog samples, slides, specimens, or other diagnostic material for archival purposes. Prepares diagnostic samples using scissors, forceps, scalpel, or cryotome for electron microscopy, virus isolation, or fluorescent antibody testing.

Testing:

Utilizes standard laboratory equipment, including pipettes, centrifuges, incubators, and microscopes.  Visually analyzes samples for quality and follows standard operating procedures to conduct routine laboratory testing, including assays such as ELISA, AGID, IFA, and FA testing and/or cell culture with supervision, depending on section needs. Generates appropriate forms and test documentation.  Prepares reagents, buffers, standards, and controls as needed. Completes proficiency tests and verifies ongoing competency for assigned assays.

Data Entry, Interpretation, Results:

Reads, computes, and records observations, results, and measurements into LIMS. Ensures documentation for all tests performed in the section meets quality assurance requirements. Reviews and releases accurate results. Recognizes abnormal values to be reviewed by the supervisor.

Client Communication:

Communicate with clients via phone or in writing to clarify test requests, discuss basic testing capabilities, and verify sample details or patient history.  Ensures confidentiality of correspondence and reports.

Quality Assurance & Safety:

Adheres to and conforms to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures. Assists in identifying incidents of non-conformance and non-compliance. Actively participates in quality assurance and safety programs. Performs training and testing within established turnaround times. Responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals.

SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation:

Reads, interprets, and performs all tests in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs). Reviews and recommends changes or improvements to section SOPs, forms, or other documentation related to section protocols. Generates forms and test documentation and files according to SOPs.

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment:

Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory. Informs management when supply inventory is low, inadequate, or expired. May assist in monitoring, calibrating, and verifying laboratory equipment.

Administrative Roles:

Files paperwork in a timely manner, including worksheets, forms, accession forms, regulatory forms, quality assurance and safety documentation, equipment maintenance forms, and logbooks. Abides by agency and state records retention and confidentiality requirements.

Training and Mentorship:

Provides backup to fellow Technicians in case of absence. Completes proficiency tests for assigned assays.

Teamwork & Cooperation:

Works with colleagues in other testing sections and laboratories to coordinate testing for shared samples. Fosters laboratory teamwork, cooperation, professional standards, and communications. Participates in cross-training with fellow technicians. Provides backup to fellow technicians in case of absences. Other job-related duties as assigned.

Other:

Work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Performs work to avoid exposing oneself or others to avoidable hazards by reasonable and approved methods.

Required:

• Education and Experience: High School graduation or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Knowledge of laboratory equipment, scientific apparatus, and computer equipment. Ensure attention to detail. Able to multitask and work cooperatively with others. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred

• Diagnostic Technician Education: Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in a science field.
• Experience: Two years in a diagnostic laboratory, veterinary clinic, or other animal science-related position.
• Licenses, Certifications, or Registrations: None
• Knowledge of: basic scientific/veterinary/medical terminology; animal science; laboratory safety; quality control/quality assurance.
• Skilled in: use of computer and laboratory equipment; performing repetitive tasks efficiently and accurately; microbiological techniques, including aseptic techniques; use of standard operating procedures; accurate recordkeeping.
• Able to: take exact measurements, make precise and controlled movements to prepare small samples for testing (fine motor skills), dexterity and hand-eye coordination, differentiate colors to verify test results, conduct analysis examination to make decisions on accurate or inaccurate results 

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.