Laboratory Technologist

MSU - Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The MSU VDL Bacteriology/Mycology section is seeking a Laboratory Technologist to process and test specimens from animals and the environment for pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Responsibilities include coordinating with lab personnel, entering data in the LIMS, preparing media, operating equipment, and performing quality control.

This role involves BSL-3 work and requires attention to safety and protocol, with some weekend/holiday rotations.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques and safety protocols.
• Experience with LIMS and data entry workflows is preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in a related science field is required or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Process and test specimens to detect pathogenic bacteria and fungi.
• Coordinate with other lab sections on orders and specimen sharing.
• Enter and retrieve data in the LIMS; maintain accurate records.
• Prepare culture media and operate/maintain lab equipment.
• Perform quality control procedures and participate in proficiency testing.
• Follow biosafety practices; work with BSL-3 materials and related scheduling.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Team collaboration

Quality control

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related science

Tools

Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Summary

The MSU VDL Bacteriology/Mycology section Laboratory Technologist is responsible for processing and testing specimens from animals and the environment to detect the presence of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. This position is responsible for coordinating with other laboratory personnel/sections regarding sharing of specimens, workload volume, and clarifying orders; entering and retrieving information from the Laboratory Information Management System; other duties include preparation of culture media, operation and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, disposal of hazardous waste, and performing quality control procedures.

The percentage breakdown of position duties includes the following...
60% -Processing and plating specimens on appropriate media for primary isolation from animals and the environment to detect the presence of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Antigen detection testing with Quality Controls and resulting. Operates in BSL-3 working with high risk/zoonotic specimens and determining what incoming Bacti samples are to be handled in BSL-3
10% -Coordinates with/trains data entry personnel on ordering Bacteriology tests in the LIMS.
20% -Perform laboratory assays and procedures, including confirmatory and quality control testing to produce results for the health maintenance, diagnosis and treatment of animals. Participate in scheduled
proficiency testing.
10% -Other duties include preparation of culture media, operation and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, disposal of hazardous waste, training of student employees, reading and reviewing standard operating procedure.
The position has responsibility for the safety and health of others and therefore involves strict attention to detail and protocol, exposure to materials containing organisms that are highly pathogenic for animals and humans, and close teamwork with others in the laboratory. Some specimen processing will be required to take place in Biosafety Level 3. Work hours are Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m.
and 5:30 p.m. and will vary to include weekends and holidays on a rotational basis. This position requires flexibility in scheduling and is subject to call-in given laboratory need and/or emergency.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four year college degree program in a related science field; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in basic laboratory techniques; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

Laboratory experience in a high-volume diagnostic laboratory, experience in diagnostic clinical bacteriology including specimen processing and serology; experience in media/reagent preparation and performing quality control; experience equipment maintenance; customer service experience: experience using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and/or Microsoft Office programs.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Resume/CV, cover letter, 3 professional references (email and phone)

Work Hours

Work hours are Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and will vary to include weekends and holidays on a rotational basis. This position requires flexibility in scheduling and is subject to call-in given laboratory need and/

Website

https://cvm.msu.edu/vdl

Bidding eligibility ends October 27, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.