NVA

Position Summary

The Laboratory Technician plays a crucial role in delivering outstanding patient care, supporting our veterinary team, and contributing to an exceptional client experience. This position requires strict adherence to hospital protocols and a strong alignment with our core values: Integrity, Teamwork, Service Excellence, Goal Orientation, and Innovation.

Key Responsibilities & Expectations

Department Oversight

• Manage the daily operations of the laboratory department
• Perform and submit diagnostic tests to both in-house analyzers and external laboratories
• Example: MiraVista, Texas GI Panel, blastomycosis testings, etc
• Routinely evaluate and improve laboratory protocols in alignment with hospital growth and evolving needs
• Ensure information is cascaded appropriately to all departments
• Act as a liaison with external laboratories to optimize test ordering, turnaround time, and efficiency
• Maintain and organize the external laboratory reference binder
• Oversee the implementation and training in on new technologies and lab equipment conjunction with tech managers
• Report any discrepancies in labs to the appropriate manager
• Laboratory Testing & Equipment Use
• Receive, prepare, and accession veterinary samples (including blood, urine, and feces) for laboratory analysis
• Conduct diagnostic tests using both automated instrumentation and manual techniques
• Perform blood chemistry and endocrinology testing to evaluate various analytes in blood and body fluids
• Analyze urine samples using both chemical and microscopic evaluation, including both manual and automated methods
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as analyzers, centrifuges, microscopes, and pipettes
• Perform pre-anesthetic bloodwork for scheduled procedures and emergency cases
• Ensure proper handling, labeling, and storage of all specimens according to hospital guidelines
• Maintain inventory, restock laboratory supplies, and ensure cleanliness and order
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance and quality control on lab analyzers as outlined in QA protocols

Full Benefits Package for Full-Time Employees:

· Paid Time Off

· Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance

· Short/Long-Term Disability & Life Insurance

· Health Savings Account (HSA) & Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

· 401k (Available for Full-Time & Part-Time Employees)

· Weekend Pay Differential (Available for Full-Time & Part-Time Employees)

· Employee Pet Discounts (Available for Full-Time & Part-Time Employees)

· CE Allowance & License Reimbursement

· Uniforms Provided & Replacements

· EAP, Anniversary & Birthday Gifts, Employee Engagement Events

Results Management

• Accurately release results and ensure they are properly recorded and attached to the appropriate patient medical record
• Tasking the doctor with appropriate labs daily
• Reviewing the Reference Lab Bloodwork sheets
• Follow all applicable SOPs for reading, interpreting, and reporting diagnostic results
• Verify that all specimens are submitted and processed accurately, with appropriate patient identification
• Ensure the proper processing of employee lab submissions

Additional Duties

• Support surgical teams by running necessary pre-operative labs
• Provide assistance during procedures including IV catheter placement, induction, restraint, and recovery as needed
• Assist with all incoming ER patients by processing required labs in a timely manner for quick turnaround
• Assist with ER patients – restraint, IV catheter placement, blood draws, etc.
• Maintain a safe environment by following biohazard and chemical handling guidelines
• Adhere to infection control practices to mitigate the risk of zoonotic disease transmission
• All other duties as assigned by their manager

Schedule & Compensation

• This person will report to the GP Technician Manager
• Open availability is required, with the ability to work anytime between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM seven days a week. Shift lengths may vary by season. For example, summer schedules may include three 13-hour shifts per week, while winter schedules may consist of five 8-hour shifts per week. Flexibility in availability is required.

*Schedule subject to change based on hospital needs and reevaluation

• Compensation $18-$24 depending on experience

Candidate Requirements

• Demonstrated reliability, flexibility, and no disciplinary occurrences within the last 12 months
• Veterinary Experience of 2+ years, recommended but not required
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize and multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient in IDEXX systems and general IT competency
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• Commitment to upholding and representing the core values of NVA