Academic Hourly - Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks a Laboratory Support Technician in the College of Veterinary Medicine to retrieve and accession specimens, prepare samples for analysis, and assist with pathologist review. The role requires accuracy, clear communication with staff and clients, and adherence to accreditation standards.

This is a 100% full-time academic hourly appointment with an expected start as soon as possible after 10/2/2026.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Biology or related field required.
• Preferred: BS in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science or closely related field.
• 4+ months of laboratory experience (research or diagnostic).
• 4+ months of customer service experience.

Responsibilities

• Retrieve and accession specimens for laboratory analysis.
• Preparation & processing of biological specimens for analysis and/or pathologist review.
• Perform duties according to laboratory standards to maintain accreditation by AAVLD.
• Clearly and amicably communicate with laboratory staff, clinical pathologists, and clients (veterinary clinicians, professional students, and biomedical investigators).
• Coordinate research services for biomedical investigations.
• Support and participate in quality assurance and laboratory standards.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Task focus

Computer interfaces

Biological sample handling

Education

B.S. in Biology or related field

B.S. in Medical Technology or Clinical Laboratory Science (preferred)

Job description

College of Veterinary Medicine

Job Summary

• Retrieve and accession specimens for laboratory analysis
• Preparation & processing of biological specimens for analysis and/or pathologist review
• Perform duties according to laboratory standards to maintain accreditation by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD)
• Clearly and amicably communicate with laboratory staff, clinical pathologists, and clients (veterinary clinicians, professional students, and biomedical investigators)
• Coordinate research services for biomedical investigations
• Support and participate in quality assurance and laboratory standards
• Other duties as assigned

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Allergies to hay, straw and pet dander may cause discomfort due to the location of this position in the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor of Science degree in Biology or a related field

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science or a closely related field
• 4+ months of laboratory experience (research or diagnostic).
• 4+ months customer service experience.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Strong attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to focus on critical tasks until completion (generally 15-20 min/task or case)
• General familiarity with point-and-click computer interfaces
• General familiarity with safe biological sample handling.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Hourly position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/2/2026. Salary is $20-25/per hour, commensurate with experience; benefits are not available for this position.This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.

Culture and Values

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is not eligible for benefits.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing [e-mail] .