Equipment Specialist (BCGEU), Microbiology

Lifelabs LP; Surrey; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading laboratory diagnostics provider in Canada is seeking an Equipment Specialist in Microbiology. This role involves performing maintenance and repairs on automated systems, troubleshooting, and ensuring quality control of specimen handling. We are looking for candidates with technical diplomas and strong problem-solving skills who want to make a meaningful impact on healthcare.

Benefits

Employee Group Benefits

Retirement Savings Plan

Vacation and Wellness Days

Professional development reimbursement

Employee Wellness Programs

Qualifications

• High School graduation and equipment repair diploma or equivalent work experience.
• Understanding of basic mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems.
• Laboratory or medical background preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform repairs on the automated specimen handling system and other lab equipment.
• Receive, sort, and prepare specimens for analysis.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with lab safety policies.

Skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Communication

Organization

Education

High School graduation

Equipment repair diploma

Job description

Equipment Specialist (BCGEU), Microbiology

7455 130 St, Surrey, BC V3W 1H8, Canada

Job Description

Posted Friday, June 6, 2025 at 4:00 AM

For over 50 years, LifeLabs has beenCanada’s leading provider of laboratory diagnostic information and digital health connectivity systems, enabling patients and healthcare practitioners to diagnose, treat, monitor and prevent disease. We are passionate about empowering healthier Canadians through accessible, accurate, and innovative diagnostic services.

We are committed innovators, operatingCanada'sfirst commercial genetics lab, and the country's largest online patient portal, with more than 8 million Canadians receiving their results online.More than112 million laboratory tests come through LifeLabs’ laboratories annually, and our team of more than 6,000 passionate, caring, and diverse professionals works together as one to provide high quality testing and results that Canadians can trust.

We know that behind every lab requisition, sample being tested, or investment in technology is an individual and their family counting on us. At LifeLabs, you can make a meaningful impact on Canadians’ lives every day.

Our teams are at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to be recognized as one of Canada’s Best Employers, reflecting our deep commitment to our core values of caring, agility, teamwork, and a customer-centered approach. As part of this commitment, LifeLabs prioritizes the ongoing development of our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program to better serve the needs of our diverse workforce and the communities we serve. We continue to take steps to challenge ourselves to act with courage and integrity, and to create an environment where people can be their true selves.

These values are not just words on a page, they guide our actions and decisions every day and have come to define our team culture.

The Equipment Specialist is primarily responsible for performing repairs on an automated specimen handling system including maintenance and troubleshooting. This position will also perform all aspects of the LTA position, receiving, sorting and packaging all incoming specimens accurately and efficiently including delivering samples to testing areas, troubleshooting problems, and the storage, retrieval and disposal of specimens. In addition, the Equipment Specialist provides input to the Team Supervisor concerning team issues and opportunities for improvement.

Status:Permanent, Full Time (37.5 hours per week)

Shift: Evening Shift.

Discipline: Microbiology
Number of positions: 1
Start Date: ASAP
Union: This is part of the BCGEU collective agreement

This vacancy is for a net new position.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Performs weekly cleaning and maintenance and required repairs to the automated specimen handling system (Autoline), including any necessary parts repair and replacement.
• Performs weekly maintenance of the Siemens LabCell system.
• Performs repairs on other automated equipment as required i.e. Capper, Pluggo, etc.
• Performs Daily check of the following: Sodium Azide system, Compressor, Nitrogen tanks.
• Performs diagnostic troubleshooting.
• Works closely with external vendors.
• Receives, sorts and prepares incoming specimens for analysis including delivery of samples to testing areas.
• Enters patient information into the computer (e.g. standing orders, transplant clinic, add-on tests etc.).
• Packages and organizes specimens for sending to BRL/VRL or appropriate referral laboratory.
• Responds to phone inquiries from employees, and other clients including hospitals, clinics, physicians and patients.
• Performs clerical functions including troubleshooting problems and accessioning patient requisitions.
• Loading/unloading; storage/retrieval and disposal of specimens.
• Wash-up duties as assigned (including acid-wash of glassware).
• Maintains confidentiality involving any information made available directly or indirectly about clients including physicians, patients, employees and the company.
• Observes and executes all laboratory safety and security policies and regulations; including location and use of safety equipment, evacuation routes, disposal of contaminated material.
• Maintains knowledge of safety/WHMIS and TDG procedures.
• Trains and orients of all team members.
• Assists in problem solving related to workflow and workstation organization and provides input, as required, at team meetings.
• Participants in related team functions (i.e. team meetings, special projects, problem solving and decision making).
• Performs other related duties as required.

What you will bring to the role:

• High School graduation including completion of an equipment repair diploma program from a recognized institution and/or the equivalent amount of related work experience.
• An understanding of basic mechanical, electrical and pneumatic systems.
• Experience working with PC based computer systems, 30 wpm typing skills.
• Laboratory or medical background (MOA, MLA, or College / University Science programs).
• TDG/WHMIS certification, plus any other first aid or safety training.
• Have good problem solving and organization skills with attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Good problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Good organizational skills and ability to work under pressure (high volume specimens).

LifeLabs’ compensation programs are commensurate based on the role, skill, effort, responsibility and working conditions, irrespective of gender, race, ethnicity, beliefs, age or any other personal characteristics. Pay programs are communicated regularly in an accessible and transparent manner.

LifeLabs is also proud to offer resources, opportunities, as well as a collaborative and supportive environment that enables our team members to thrive.

In addition to a competitive compensation package, LifeLabs provides a comprehensive total rewards program, specific to the job position. Your package may include:

• Employee Group Benefits: Competitive coverage for employees and their families to support their overall health and wellness needs, including Extended Health Care, Dental Care, and Life Insurance.
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Vacation and Wellness Days
• Employee Wellness and Giving Programs: Our award winning mental, physical and financial wellness programs aim to address the comprehensive well-being of our team members, including resources like the Employee & Family Assistance Program, financial planning tools, and employee recognition initiatives.
• Professional development and membership reimbursement, access to preferred rates and discount programs, including WorkPerks, Home and Auto Insurance, Costco Membership, etc., and optional health-related benefits.

In accordance with LifeLabs’ Accessibility Policy , and the applicable Accessibility Acts within the provinces we operate in, accommodations are available by request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process. For a confidential inquiry or to request an accommodation, please contact your recruiter or email [e-mail] .

Vaccinations are highly encouraged at LifeLabs’. Vaccinations and/or immunization screening may be mandatory for selected employees if regulated by provincial or regional governments, or through employer-led vaccination policies in the facilities we service. Please ensure you ask if this position requires the successful candidate to be vaccinated or undergo immunization screening.

Ready to empower healthier Canadians? Apply today!