LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Laboratory Technician II in the Infectious Diseases Laboratory (IDL) within VetMed-SAMS. The role focuses on developing and validating diagnostic assays, handling samples, and performing PCR-based tests with strict aseptic technique.

Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma and 2 years of related experience. This is a full-time, on-site position in Athens, GA with a 40-hour work week and benefits eligibility.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of related experience.
• Develop and validate diagnostic assays; process samples.
• Operate PCR and related lab equipment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate diagnostic assays.
• Process exotic avian samples.
• Run PCR tests and document results.
• Maintain lab cleanliness and safety.

Skills

Lab techniques

Sterile technique

Pipetting

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

PCR

Thermocycler

Agarose gel

Job description

Posting Number:

S15680P

Working Title:

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II

Department:

VetMed-SAMS Infect Disease Lab

About the University of Georgia:

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

Posting Type:

External

Retirement Plan:

TRS

Employment Type:

Employee

Benefits Eligibility:

Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time:

Full Time

Additional Schedule Information:

M-F; 40 hours

Advertised Salary:

Commensurate with Experience

Posting Date:

09/01/2026

Open until filled:

Yes

Proposed Starting Date:

10/01/2026

Location of Vacancy:

Athens Area

EEO Policy Statement:

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement:

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02. Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Classification Title:

Lab Tech-Medical Science II

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

FTE:

1.00

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent and 2 years of related experience

Position Summary:

This is a responsible technical position in the Infectious Diseases Laboratory (IDL) in the Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery in the College of Veterinary Medicine. The position will primarily require good general lab techniques and a willingness to learn new techniques are important. The use of aseptic techniques for sample handling, and processing are necessary. This position will require development and validation of neutralization assays, nucleic acid purification, amplification and running polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests using a thermocycler and agarose gel and methods.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

Well organized with absolute attention to detail. Willing to perform scientific bench work. Knowledge of sterile technique as it applies to the job. General software competency. Attention to detail in every aspect of work ranging from assigning submission number to processing to running tests to recording and reporting results.

Physical Demands:

Sit for long periods of time and repetitive hand movement (ex. pipetting, writing, computer typing)

Is driving a responsibility of this position?:

No

Is this a Position of Trust?:

Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:

No

Does this position have P-Card? :

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications):

Yes

Credit and P-Card policy:

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy:

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities:

The majority of time will be spent developing and validating diagnostic assays as well as processing samples (mainly exotic avian species choanal/cloacal swabs, feces, and blood) and running diagnostic assays (mainly VNs, ELISAS, EBAs and PCRs) will be performed routinely. A working knowledge of the diagnostic assays and the respective positive and negative controls is imperative for accurate interpretation of results, data collection, analysis and the incorporation of the combined evaluated material into technical reports that can be conveyed to clients. This position involves the skill to develop new and/or improved methods that enhance the lab’s capability to successfully and accurately detect disease causing organisms that are of major concern to our clients. It is imperative that this individual have a working knowledge and ability to troubleshoot serological tests.

Percentage of time:

70

Duties/Responsibilities:

Management of laboratory submissions and computer database (VetView). This is a diagnostic service laboratory that receives national and international samples. It is imperative that samples are labeled accurately, efficiently with attention to detail. Each sample is given an identifying submission number that is carefully entered into a computer database. This database maintains client information, animal identification, sample type, test requested and results, along with financial management of each account.

Percentage of time:

20

Duties/Responsibilities:

Miscellaneous laboratory tasks. Laboratory maintenance including cleaning, autoclaving, sample logging/disposal, surplus, and any additional tasks deemed necessary by the co-director.

Percentage of time:

10

Contact Details:

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name:

Brittany McHale

Recruitment Contact Email:

[e-mail]