Micro Tech

The Microbiology Tech 2 requires a comprehensive background in microbiology, that includes proficiency in advanced testing, culture interpretation, and the operation of specialized instruments. This role also encompasses the maintenance of laboratory equipment and strict adherence to all laboratory safety protocols. The Tech 2 will perform advanced quality control tasks and manage complex reporting and identification processes. The Tech 2 should demonstrate the ability to problem solve, work independently, and take initiative to help the team complete daily workflow and achieve high quality test results.

Duties
:

• In accordance with laboratory standard operating procedures, set-up and perform all Microbiology or Molecular tests including but not limited to the following.
• MALDI-TOF Identification for bacteria and yeast with knowledge of quality control and instrument operation.
• Accept and document MALDI results and performing instrument maintenance.
• Operation of Vitek2 including software operation, isolate set-up and use of  & AST cards.
• AST testing set-ups and resulting for Kirby-Bauer, Sensititre and Vitek
  2.
• Set-up and evaluation of purity plates for QC of AST.
• Gram stain, Acid fast stain, microscope use, biochemical testing of microorganisms, culture plate storage
• Reporting tasks including preliminary and final with no growth, growth and growth with Sensitivities.

• Interpret culture results and prepare detailed documentation of work.
• Add results and perform culture reporting using LIS.
• Understanding and utilize the laboratory information system (LIS) for accessioning, requisition maintenance, test ordering and batch reporting.
• Maintain Quality control documents and review daily, weekly and monthly.
• Perform work in accordance with Select Agent Safety Protocols, Select Agent identification and Select Agent reporting requirements.
• Assist as needed in the daily set-up process of the high volume of specimens received.
• Engage with Medical Leadership to improve internal processes, performance and to resolve customer service issues.
• Responsible for laboratory equipment maintenance, cleaning and QC.
• Understand and adhere to all applicable ZRL safety procedures and protocols.
• Participate in the implementation of the laboratory and ZRL Quality Control plans.
• May be required to complete similar responsibilities for parasitology testing
• Perform other related duties as required

Education and Experience Requirements

• BA/BS in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related science field with 1+ year of experience preferred
• Associates Degree or Certified Veterinary Technicians with equivalent Microbiology experience (5+ years) considered in lieu of Bachelor's degree

Technical Skills Requirements

• Proficiency in Microsoft Platforms (Teams, Outlook, Word etc.) and Salesforce
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment and collaborate with colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and follow instructions accurately.
• Skills using aseptic technique including: plating, culture work-up and subculture of bacteria and broths

Micro Only

• Culture plate reading skills for the following sample tests:
  Urine, Aerobic & Anaerobic, Skin, Fecal, Blood, Mycobacteria/Nocardia, and Dermatophyte cultures.
• Knowledge of Federal/State reportable organisms.

Preferred

Skills and Experience:

• India ink and lactophenol blue preps
• Fungus isolate set-up for MALDI
• Susceptibility Result reporting
• Proficiency in Fungal and Dermatophyte Cultures
• Select agent identification and reporting requirements
• QC of Instruments (Vitek, MALDI-TOF) and media
• Expertise in MALDI, species identification, etc
• Resulting of all ASTs and checking purity plates

Physical Position Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to bend, kneel, stoop, crouch
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods

At Zoetis, our purpose is to nurture the world and humankind by advancing care for animals. As a Fortune 500 company and the world leader in animal health, we discover, develop, manufacture and commercialize vaccines, medicines, diagnostics and other technologies for companion animals and livestock. We know our people drive our success. Our award-winning culture, built around our Core Beliefs, focuses on our colleagues  careers, connection and support.

We offer competitive healthcare and retirement savings benefits, along with an array of benefits, policies and programs to support employee well-being in every sense, from health and financial wellness to family and lifestyle resources.