Laboratory Technician/GP Technician

Animal Medical Center of Plainfield

Job Description

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, taking the duty of the CSR
  • Reviewing the Reference Lab Bloodwork sheets, taking the duty from GP Tech Manager
  • 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 preferred, with the ability to work anytime between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Shift lengths may vary by season. For example, summer schedules may include three 12-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

  • Open availability preferred
  • Compensation $18-$26 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
 
National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.
 
At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.
 
NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees.  The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process.  For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
 
NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.