Animal Lab Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

This position supports the diagnostic and production activities of the Laboratory for Udder Health (LUH) within the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory by performing microbiological testing, culture media preparation, and quality assurance processes. The role contributes to accurate, timely diagnostic results and high-quality product delivery that support animal health and client needs. Success in this position requires strong attention to detail, technical proficiency in laboratory practices, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. A commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement is essential.
 

Job Duties

45% Testing/General Laboratory Responsibilities
o Perform microbiological testing and related procedures in accordance with established protocols.
o Set up and prepare samples for diagnostic testing, accurately interpret results, and ensure proper documentation in LIMS.
o Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory instruments to ensure reliable and consistent performance.
o Respond to Oceasoft alerts, investigate issues, and ensure timely resolution.
o Provide responsive customer service by addressing phone calls, emails, and client inquiries.
o Assist with inventory management, including preparation and restocking of laboratory supplies.
o Follow laboratory safety procedures, biosafety guidelines, and regulatory protocols at all times.
o Perform general laboratory maintenance such as supply stocking, transporting biohazardous waste to the autoclave room, and maintaining cleanliness.
o Conduct daily quality control on prepared media, including contamination checks, growth pattern assessment, and record-keeping.
o Review relevant literature to remain current on diagnostic testing as directed.
o Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
25% Media Laboratory Responsibilities
o Perform quality control and maintenance of culture media in accordance with protocols.
o Stamp and process media, prepare plate orders, and package shipments for clients.
o Create and affix shipping labels, transport packages to designated docks, and record charges in the shipping system.
o Provide backup support for media laboratory and student responsibilities as needed.
o Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
15% Expanded Laboratory Duties-LUH
o Responsible for keeping up to date on email and client communication: MNEasyOrder@umn.edu
o Assist with drafting, revising, and editing SOPs, forms, and related documentation.
o Assist with the implementation of new diagnostic tests to expand capabilities.
o Identify areas for improvement and recommend efficiency enhancements to supervisor.
o Troubleshoot equipment, procedures, and diagnostic processes as needed.
o Receive supplies, verify against orders, record in the chemical log as appropriate, and label chemicals according to SOPs.
o Support research initiatives and participate in special projects.
o Maintain and document assigned equipment in Q-Pulse.
o Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
10% Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QAQC)
o Participate in quality assurance activities in accordance with the VDL Quality Manual (SYS.QM.001) and System Policies (SYS.POLICY.001).
o Perform all procedures according to VDL SOPs.
o Assist in the detection and review of nonconforming work, determination of corrective/preventive actions, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
o Review and update CV or resume annually, providing a copy to supervisor as needed.
5% Safety
o Employee is trained to follow the lab safety plan created by the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

Work Schedule

MondayFriday, 8:00 AM4:30 PM, or an equivalent schedule as arranged with the supervisor. The employee is required to work select University of Minnesota holidays. Overtime may be required based on operational needs. Occasional weekend or other non-standard hours may be required as needed.
 

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required Qualification: BA/BS degree or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least four years. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Coursework in laboratory science or prior laboratory experience

• Demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and self-motivation

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Commitment to quality, integrity, and attention to detail in all aspects of work

The University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) is a national leader in providing rapid diagnosis of animal diseases, identifying emerging diseases, developing new diagnostic methods, and training diagnosticians and veterinarians. The VDL serves the interests of the livestock and poultry industry, animal research scientists and educators, and companion animal owners. We provide strong support to the state as the official laboratory of the Minnesota Board of Animal Health as well as supporting the national animal and human health system. The laboratory is a part of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and serves as Minnesotas only full-service laboratory for animal health diagnosis.

Pay Range: $31.93-$23.01 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.