Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

THIS POSITION IS PERMANENTLY LOCATED IN Turlock, CA. Under supervision, provides basic laboratory support in Shipping/Receiving and other departments of the Turlock Laboratory. The Laboratory Assistant II position is responsible for entering client/animal/specimen information, test assignment & retrieving results using the laboratory information management system (LIMS). Responsible for processing specimen samples, distributing to appropriate departments for testing and/or sending out to reference laboratories. Performs data entry, labeling, prepping samples and media for shipment, stocking, filing, disposing of biohazardous waste materials, autoclave, laundry and glassware support. Provides assistance in other departments as needed.
Apply By Date : September 9 th 2026 by 11:59PM
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• No minimum education required.
• Experience providing excellent customer service to clients.
• Experience or knowledge of veterinary/medical laboratory diagnostic setting; including specimen handling, operation of laboratory equipment, and general laboratory techniques
• Skills and demonstrated experience to store, record and track samples and data sheets in an efficient, timely and accurate manner.
• Working knowledge and skills with quality control methods in a diagnostic laboratory including proper identification, labeling and completing of documents related to received specimens, and/or supplies; and maintaining accurate inventory and quality control records for biological media/reagents.
• Customer service skills, with the experience to interact with individuals at all levels of the University and with external clients.
• Skills to communicate complex and sensitive information, negotiate and resolve conflicts and promote teamwork.
• Skills with word processing, spreadsheets and database applications in a Windows environment for correspondences, documentation and accurately enter data into computers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of and skills to use various laboratory equipment including; centrifuges, blenders, bio-hazard safety cabinets, glassware washers and autoclaves.
• Skills to perform appropriate and cost-effective ordering and use of laboratory and/or office supplies and equipment.
• Knowledge of air and ground shipping regulations.
• Knowledge of and skills in veterinary/medical diagnostic laboratory test procedures and service functions

Key Responsibilities

• 40% - Specimen Assignments and Processing
• 30% - Receiving / Shipping
• 20% - Glassware/Laundry/Autoclave Support
• 10% - Laboratory Maintenance / Multi-laboratory Support

Department Overview
CAHFS provides California's livestock and poultry industries, and veterinary practitioners who serve them, with a full range of diagnostic laboratory services for disease control, enhancement of health management, and protection from diseases common to animal and humans. In meeting this need, the CAHFS also serves as the backbone of California's disease warning system through its animal disease surveillance program. The system consists of four laboratories currently located in Davis, Turlock, Tulare and San Bernardino. Funding for this program is provided through a contract with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and through revenue generated from user fees. An additional program, the Equine Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, is funded through a contract with the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) and horse wagering monies and provides full service drug testing and a pharmacology research and development program.
POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $27.10 /hr. - $29.58 /hr.
• Salary Frequency: Bi-weekly
• Salary Grade: STEPS
• UC Job Title: LAB AST 2
• UC Job Code: 009603
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100 %
• Shift (Work Schedule): Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 5:00pm (Work schedule might be slightly different during the training period)
• Location: Davis
• Union Representation: TX-Technical Professionals
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees .

• High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
• UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
• Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
• Supplemental insurance offered including additional life , short/long term disability , pet insurance , legal coverage , accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
• Pregnancy and Parental Leave , Family & Medical Leave , Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
• Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
• Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee's lives
• On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
• Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
• Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees

Physical Demands

• Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Loud noise levels - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
This is not a research position. The position is located in a diagnostic laboratory where quality control and assurance as well as meticulous working habits are essential. Per the terms and agreements of the department's contracts and grants, the position requires signing of a Confidentiality Agreement or Non-Disclosure Agreement regarding testing and client information. Upon completion of a background check and appropriate training, must participate in the select agent program. Ability to complete Select Agent background clearance procedures. Due to the nature of the essential responsibilities, this position is not eligible for remote work. This position is subject to UCD's vaccination program (Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, is/might subject to prophylactic vaccination for rabies), and Medical/Health Surveillance Program/Procedures/Review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 5:00pm (Work schedule might be slightly different during the training period). Work flexible schedule/overtime as needed to complete projects and meet deadlines. Mandatory weekend and holiday rotation. Restricted/Limited vacation during peak workload periods (i.e. Outbreaks, Fiscal Close, Audits Periods, etc.)
Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

• This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community , our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
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