Senior Research Laboratory Tech (Part-Time)

University of Missouri-Columbia; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 20,664 - 35,597; Full time

Job summary

The University of Missouri-Columbia is seeking a Senior Research Lab Technician to join the School of Medicine, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. The role involves hands-on animal care, technical research procedures, equipment maintenance, and coordinating student assistants in a fast-paced lab environment.

Preferred candidates have veterinary technician training or prior animal care experience. Typical shift is 8:00 am–3:00 pm, with occasional weekend flexibility; salary range listed is hourly.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• At least 2 years of experience or transferable skills preferred.
• Experience with animal care in clinical or research settings is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Animal care & Handling: perform monthly dog health checks and assist with walking and enrichment.
• Research procedure support: assist with room setup, blood draws, imaging, and clinical assessments.
• Laboratory & equipment maintenance: sterilize supplies and maintain lab equipment; handle tissue processing steps.
• Supply & facility management: order supplies, conduct inventory, and keep storage areas organized.
• Student coordination & training: schedule and train student assistants; supervise project days.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Detail oriented

Time management

Record‑keeping

Able to take instructions

Heavy lifting

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Job Description

The School of Medicine - Department of Orthopaedic Surgery is seeking a highly motivated, engaged, and committed Senior Research Lab Technician to join a fast‑paced, highly productive team. This role supports an animal model research program and includes hands‑on animal care, technical research procedures, equipment maintenance, and coordination of student assistants. Preference is given to candidates with veterinary technician training or prior experience working with animals in a clinical or research setting.

Key Attributes

• Strong communication
• Teamwork
• Detail oriented
• Time Management
• Record‑keeping skills
• Able to take instructions well and implement with minimal supervision (once trained)
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

Position Overview

• Animal Care & Handling
  • Perform monthly dog health checks, including nail trims
  • Assist with dog walking and enrichment activities as needed
  • Provide post‑operative care for research animals, including daily health checks, medication administration and treatments, bandage changes
• Research Procedure Support
  • Assist with all aspects of animal model research days, including room and equipment setup
  • Blood draws, urine collection, and synovial fluid retrieval
  • Radiographs, ultrasound, MRI, and gait analysis (GaitRite)
  • Clinical assessments and surgical assistance
  • Process, log, and store biological specimens
  • Transfer and organize radiographs and arthroscopic images into study folders on the main lab drive
• Laboratory & Equipment Maintenance
  • Sterilize supplies and instruments
  • Maintain laboratory and research equipment
  • Prepare decal solution for tissue processing and change solutions three times weekly when needed
  • Drop off and pick up histopathology samples for the veterinary pathologist
• Supply & Facility Management
  • Order supplies through Central Supply
  • Conduct monthly inventory of surgical supplies and equipment
  • Maintain weekly organization and cleanliness of the storage room at animal facilities
  • Transport supplies and equipment between the lab and animal facilities
  • General cleaning duties as needed
• Student Coordination & Training
  • Schedule and coordinate student assistants for project days
  • Train students on proper study techniques and procedures
  • Supervise students during animal model research days

Shift

Typically 8:00 am–3:00 pm, Monday through Friday with flexibility for occasional weekends.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $15.00 - $25.84 per hour. Grade: GGS‑006. University Title: RESEARCH/LAB TECHNICIAN SR.

Benefits Eligibility

This position is not eligible for University benefits. Individuals may choose to participate in the Tax‑Deferred Annuity Plan (403b). For information about this plan, visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573‑884‑7278.