Preparation Technician / Medical Laboratory Technician

MSU Careers Recent Jobs; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 38,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

MSU College of Veterinary Medicine is seeking a Preparation Technician to assist with specimen preparation for diagnostic analysis. You will triage specimens, log data in the LIMS, and ensure proper storage while following strict safety protocols.

The ideal candidate has lab experience, strong communication, and a detail-focused mindset to support multiple teams in a fast-paced lab environment. Shift covers 7:30am–5:30pm; weekend rotations may apply.

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include a four-year science degree or two-year Applied Science Medical Laboratory Technician with internship.
• Up to six months of related lab experience and basic lab techniques.
• Equivalent education and experience accepted.

Responsibilities

• Prepare specimens for diagnostic analysis and perform triage in receiving/ordering.
• Log-in and store specimens in the lab; track using the LIMS system.
• Ensure safety, health of staff and strict adherence to protocol.
• Handle unfixed animal tissues and prepare media/reagents as needed.
• Work hours 7:30am–5:30pm, with possible weekend/holiday rotation.

Skills

Organized

Detail oriented

Team oriented

Customer service

Communication skills

Laboratory environment experience

Safety training

Education

Bachelors or equivalent in science

AS degree in Medical Laboratory Technician

Job description

Working/Functional Title

Preparation Technician

Position Summary

The ideal candidate will provide support to technical and professional staff by preparing specimens for diagnostic analysis; this job includes but is not limited to:triage of specimens in the receiving-order entry unit to ensure accurate data entry, log-in, and storage of specimen to the lab and the preparation of animal tissue, feed, and blood samples for analysis; this job requires excellent verbal communication skills to address client questions and computer fluency to use the lab LIMS system to track specimen in the lab. The position has responsibility for the safety and health of others and therefore involves strict attention to detail and protocol, exposure to materials and chemicals, and close teamwork with others in the laboratory.

Duties of this position include: processing/testing specimens from animals and the environment to detect the presence of inorganic and organic chemicals; preparation of media/reagents for use by several laboratory sections. Duties associated with this position involve walking, lifting, pushing, pulling, reaching, and working with unfixed animal tissues. Work hours are between 7:30am and 5:30pm, Monday through Friday; schedule may deviate from standard hours and will include weekend and holiday rotation.

The College's vision is to be the destination for teaching, innovation, care, and service. Six goals, backed by specific strategies, guide our organization as we move forward. Read more at https ://cvm.msu.edu/about/strategic-planning-2021-26/goals to learn about the MSU College of Veterinary Medicines goals, strategies and progress.

The College of Veterinary Medicine is committed to promoting the principles of equal opportunity and multiculturalism where all individuals are valued, respected, provided opportunity to flourish and open doors in their pursuit of excellence. We encourage and welcome our community to share ideas with us surrounding opportunities to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in science or a two-year associates degree program in Applied Science Medical Laboratory Technician including a six-month internship at an approved institution laboratory; up to six months of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in basic laboratory techniques; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

A successful candidate will be a professional who is organized, detail oriented, and one who does not sweat the small stuff and is able to remain calm, cool, and collected under pressure. The ideal candidate for this role will be team oriented, collaborative by nature, customer service focused, an independent problem solver, and have a positive attitude, while maintaining a professional demeanor. Good written and oral communication skills; ability to function as a team member within and across multiple levels of operations. Experience working in a laboratory environment requiring specific safety and security awareness training.

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.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

HTTPS://CVM.MSU.EDU/VDL

Summary of Health Risks

Exposure to unfixed animal tissue

Bidding eligibility ends September 15, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.

Advertised: Sep 9, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Sep 22, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time