Senior Bacteriology Technician, Diagnostic Services Unit

Description

The Diagnostic Services Unit in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine invites applications for a Senior Bacteriology Technician
. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 12 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.

Reporting to the Manager, DSU Laboratories and receiving day-to-day direction from the Bacteriology Laboratory Supervisor, the Senior Bacteriology Technician carries out various activities that support the microbiology lab.

This position requires effective communication skills, and all work accountabilities must be carried out with a high degree of competency, professionalism, and accuracy. The successful candidate must have the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, while also working effectively as a team member. Attention to detail is crucial regarding standard operating procedures. The work is of varying complexity, with peak periods and short timelines for completion.

The laboratory work environment has the inherent potential for exposure to dangerous materials and situations; however, risk of exposure or injury is substantially decreased through application of safe work practices and protocols.

The hours of work are normally Monday through Friday, 35 hours per week. Scheduling may vary on occasion; therefore, flexibility is required. There is a Saturday shift rotation schedule that is required to be shared among the technicians.

The position is based out of the Clinical Skills Building (CSB) at the Spy Hill Campus, but travel to Foothills Campus may be required.

• Works as part of a team to support the teaching and service activities of the DSU. Responsible for working effectively under the day-to-day direction of the Bacteriology Laboratory Supervisor, and mentorship by the Clinical Microbiologist
• Selects appropriate culture media and incubation environments for the growth of microbial pathogens based upon animal species, type of tissue submission and suspected bacterial pathogen
• Identifies pathogens in a wide variety of mammalian, avian, and environmental specimens. Tests pathogens for antibiotic susceptibility
• Isolates and identifies pathogenic fungi by using appropriate culture techniques, biochemical tests, morphological identification, and DNA analysis
• Maintains, records and reviews results from biological and physical testing of each submission into the Laboratory Information System. Presents results to the Microbiologist or Veterinary Pathologist
• Use molecular diagnostic methods for detection and identification of bacterial and fungal pathogens, including determining the presence/absence of different genes
• Participates in development and adherence to quality assurance / quality control program for Bacteriology lab, including writing, reviewing and revising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPS). Develops and validates new methods initiated by the Clinical Microbiologist
• Maintains inventory of all stock bacterial and fungal references and ATCC strains
• Maintains inventory for culture media, antibiotics, commercial identifications systems, biochemical tests, and reagents
• Oversees maintenance and operation of laboratory equipment and performs associated documentation of any work, alterations, enhancements, and calibrations performed
• Observes appropriate biosecurity procedures for invasive and pathogenic bacteria, many of which are zoonotic
• Disposes of pathogens by sterilization, incineration and medical waste companies; washes, prepares and sterilizes lab glassware
• Identify problems and take appropriate action to resolve them independently or seek the advice of the appropriate person
• Demonstrates flexibility and adjusts levels of service delivery to meet the timelines and varying peaks in workload. Must be willing to train and support in other microbiology laboratory sections
• Performs a very high degree of accuracy and efficiency with an understanding that services have a direct impact on teaching, research, and service. Interacts with faculty members, staff members, students, and clients in an effective, positive, and helpful manner
• Ensures related University, UCVM and DSU policies and procedures are adhered to at all times
• Makes a positive impact on all requests and inquiries by faculty members, staff members, clients and students
• Practices effective communication skills to ensure collaboration with internal and external clients. Build effective working relationships that promote trust and collaboration
• Advises the Bacteriology Laboratory Supervisor and Manager, DSU Laboratories of any incident or occupational illness as outlined in the University of Calgary Safety and Security protocols
• Familiarizes themselves with the University of Calgary statement on Principles of Conduct and conducts themselves according to these principles in all situations when representing the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine or while acting on behalf of the University
• Fosters a positive and productive work environment
• Performs other…