Laboratory Technician II - WSVL at University of Wyoming in Laramie, WY

Job description

Join Our Campus Community! Thank you for your interest in joining the University of Wyoming. Our community thrives on the contributions of talented and driven individuals who share in our mission, vision, and values. If your expertise and experience align with the goals of our institution, we would be thrilled to hear from you. We encourage you to apply and become a valued member of our vibrant campus community today! Why Choose Us? At the University of Wyoming, we value our employees and invest in their success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. Benefits include: Generous Retirement Contributions: The State contributes over 15% of your gross salary. With your mandatory employee contribution, the total contribution toward your retirement plan exceeds 19%. Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage: Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs . Paid Time Off: Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure. Tuition Waiver: Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth. Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs: Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources. At the University of Wyoming , we are committed to creating a supportive and enriching workplace. To learn more about what we offer, please refer to UW’s Benefits Summary . JOB TITLE: Laboratory Technician II JOB PURPOSE: Operate the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory (WSVL) Accessioning/Shipping & Receiving/Necropsy and Trimming Laboratories. This will include, but is not limited to the following: receiving of animal carcasses, samples/ specimens, and equipment/supplies from clients; assisting pathologists with necropsy, sample collection, and sample routing; accessioning and shipping of diagnostic specimens; specimen fixation/decalcification/trimming/and specimen maintenance in the tissue trimming laboratory; training and support of student assistants; and participation in WSVL teaching/instructional efforts including field disease investigations and assistance with research projects. This position has been deemed essential as addressed in the University of Wyoming’s Employee Handbook . Employees in essential positions may be required to work during emergency closures and winter closures based on the nature of their job duties and the reasons for the closure. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Assist in the daily operations of the Accessioning/Shipping & Receiving/Necropsy and Trimming Laboratories. • Perform necropsy alongside pathologists and develop skills for collection of biological specimens for diagnostic testing. • Perform dissection of animal heads for brain tissue collection and routing of tissue for rabies testing. • Independently perform routine procedures for formalin-fixed diagnostic specimens including trimming, decalcification, and maintenance of archived specimens. • Perform accessioning and shipping of diagnostic specimens. • Perform routing of diagnostic specimens to appropriate lab sections. • Collect, assimilate and record relevant information from clients upon receipt of a diagnostic submission. • Communicate directly with internal and external clients and direct questions and calls to appropriate staff. • Contribute to quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of results. • Assist with development and implementation of new laboratory procedures and methodologies as needed. • Operate and resource repair of instruments, equipment, tools, and machinery. • Assist faculty, staff, and students in the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment. • Participate in hiring, training, and management of undergraduate student assistants. • May assist with or teach necropsy short courses and/or workshops. • May a