Laboratory Technologist

The Laboratory Technologist delivers routine and specialized diagnostic testing for the Sea World Abu Dhabi (SWAD) laboratory across a range of disciplines including haematology, biochemistry, microbiology, parasitology, body fluid analysis and water quality as required supporting the full SWAD animal population as well as the affiliated Yas Sea World Research & Rescue (YSWRR) marine life rescue and rehabilitation program. Working under the supervision of the Senior Laboratory Manager and with technical direction from the Veterinary Pathologist Director or Laboratory Services the post holder is responsible for accurate sample accessioning and processing, analyser operation and maintenance, manual diagnostic techniques, result validation, data entry, quality control and biosafety compliance.

The role carries day-to-day ownership of one or more designated laboratory disciplines while maintaining cross disciplinary competency to ensure service continuity. The Laboratory Technologist also undertakes the administrative activities that underpin laboratory operations including procurement and inventory documentation and record management, SOP drafting and revision and QA record-keeping and supports the training of colleagues, interns, students and externs. Through the generation of reliable, timely diagnostic results the role contributes directly to SWAD s high animal welfare standards, clinical decision-making, rescue and rehabilitation outcomes and the advancement of marine animal health science.

Receive, inspect, verify, label, accession and barcode diagnostic samples across all disciplines confirming correct container, volume, labelling, transport conditions and test request.

Prepare smears, aliquots and serum plasma separations, package and dispatch samples for external referral and advanced testing.

Maintain sample archives for repeat testing, trend analysis and research access.

Operate, calibrate and maintain automated analyzers and point-of-care systems across range of disciplines.

Perform routine test repertoire and aid in enhancing the test portfolio.

Perform dilutions, reruns and manual verification of automated results where indicated.

Undertake specialized and non-routine testing as required and support validation and documentation of new assays, methods and devices.

Validate results against reference standards and expected species values, investigate, repeat and elevate anomalous or clinically significant findings.

Record results accurately in database system and associated spreadsheets verifying data entry for completeness and accuracy.

Communicate results to clinical and animal care teams through agreed reporting channels within defined turnaround times.

Maintain long-term data archives and reference image libraries to support trend analysis, species reference intervals, education and research.

Promptly report and elevate sample quality issues, incomplete or discrepant submissions, deviations, near misses, incidents and non-conformities to laboratory leadership in line with laboratory procedures.

Run standards, blanks, duplicates and controls, monitor for shifts and trends and investigate, document and elevate deviations.

Draft and revise SOPs, work instructions and risk assessments in collaboration with the Senior Laboratory Manager, Quality and Laboratory Governance Officer and Veterinary Pathologist Director of Laboratory Services.

Support internal and external audit readiness, document control and corrective and preventive action follow-up.

Perform scheduled daily, weekly and monthly maintenance of analyzers and equipment, troubleshoot faults and coordinate service visits.

Prepare, replenish and correctly store reagents, calibrators, controls, stains and cleaning solutions, maintain water purification systems and filters.

Monitor and log fridge, freezer and incubator temperatures and act on excursions, maintain biosafety cabinets and incubator conditions appropriate to diverse species and isolates.

Maintain cleanliness and organization of benches, glassware, storage and equipment areas.

Work in accordance with biosafety BSL-2 and chemical safety protocols at all times including correct PPE use and aseptic technique.

Dispose of diagnostic, biological and chemical waste safely.

Maintain…