Bacteriology Technician, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine

Description

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine invites applications for a Bacteriology Technician This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 7 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.

The Bacteriology Technician is a member of the Diagnostic Services Unit (DSU) of the University of Calgary, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM). Reporting to the DSU Manager and receiving day-to-day direction from the Clinical Microbiologist, the Bacteriology Technician carries out various activities that support the microbiology lab.

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 Tuesday through Saturday, 35 hours per week. Scheduling may vary on occasion; therefore, flexibility is required. On occasion, there may be the need to work outside of regular hours.

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

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

• Must work as part of a team to support teaching and service activities of the DSU. Responsible for working effectively under the day-to-day direction of the Clinical Microbiologist
• Assist with specific laboratory activities which may include but are not limited to preparation and maintenance of reagents, solutions and other materials as required, processing of bacteriology samples, identifying pathogens (bacterial and fungal), performing antibiotic susceptibility testing, operation of laboratory equipment, and other associated activities as required
• Assist in the detection and identification of bacterial and fungal pathogens using molecular diagnostic methods
• Assist with processing samples and performing tests for serology and parasitology
• Assist with general laboratory maintenance (e.g. ordering, inventory, stocking, cleaning, etc.)
• Assist with the disposal of pathogens by sterilization, incineration and medical waste company; washes, prepares and sterilizes lab glassware
• Participate in maintaining records and reviewing results from biological and physical testing of each submission into the Laboratory Information System. Presents results to the Clinical Microbiologist or Veterinary Pathologist
• Participate in the adherence to quality assurance / quality control program for Bacteriology lab, including writing, reviewing and revising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPS)
• Observes appropriate biosecurity procedures for invasive and pathogenic bacteria, many of which are zoonotic
• Identifies problems and takes 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
• Ensures related University, UCVM and DSU policies and procedures are always adhered to
• Practices effective communication skills to ensure collaboration with internal and external clients. Builds effective working relationships that promote trust and collaboration.
• Advises the DSU Manager of any incident or occupational illness as outlined in 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

Qualifications / Requirements:

• A Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology or related field or certification as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) (Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science-CSMLS), Medical Technologist (MT) (American Medical Technologists-AMT), Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) (ASCP), Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) (ASCP), or equivalent
• Previous experience in diagnostic microbiology, preferably in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory, is considered an asset
• Knowledge of molecular and microbiological techniques including bacteriology, serology and parasitology
• Proficient in the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of diagnostic laboratory equipment or a willingness to learn is required
• Ability to push, pull, lift or carry moderate weight- 20-40 lbs
• Ability to work with computers and knowledge of or ability to learn management of electronic records or database is required. Experience with a laboratory information management system (LIMS) would be considered an asset
• Sound knowledge of the principles of sanitation and disinfection or a willingness to learn is required
• Understanding of and ability to work using industry specific laboratory safety standards
• Demonstrated ability to function as a productive team member as well as work independently is required
• Excellent communication (written and oral), organization, interpersonal, and customer service skills are required
• Personable and able to respond professionally when faced with multiple demands and short timelines
• A valid Class 5 driver¿s license with proven good driving record (abstract required)

Application Deadline:  July 23, 2024

We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.

This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technician Job Family, Phase 1.

For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website. 

About the University of Calgary

UCalgary is Canada¿s entrepreneurial university, located in Canada¿s most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada¿s leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.

The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.

As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion ([email protected]) and requests for accommodations can be sent to Human Resources ([email protected]).

Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role. 

We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.