Fast Lab Tech Jobs in Minneapolis, MN (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview 

The Serology Laboratory Technician position in the Serology Section of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory supports the laboratorys mission of providing accurate, timely, and high-quality diagnostic testing services for animal health monitoring and disease detection. This role is responsible for performing clinical diagnostic laboratory procedures in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) under the general supervision of a faculty advisor. Primary responsibilities include conducting high-throughput serological testing, including ELISA procedures, to detect antibodies associated with bacterial and viral diseases in domestic animals. Success in this position requires strong attention to detail, adherence to quality and biosafety standards, technical laboratory proficiency, organizational skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced diagnostic environment.

Job Responsibilities 

(55%)  Perform Clinical Diagnostic Testing and Sample Processing

• Receive, prepare, and organize cases according to submission forms while maintaining a high level of attention to detail. 

• Perform sample processing as needed. 

• Conduct various ELISA procedures to detect antibodies against bacterial and viral diseases by following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) under the general supervision of senior laboratory professionals. 

(15%) Manage Professional Communication and Team Collaboration

• Attend and participate in laboratory staff meetings. 

• Organize work effectively and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines. 

• Communicate professionally and courteously as a team member while providing excellent customer service. 

(10%) Record Data and Reporting Test Results

• Accurately report test results in the LIMS system. 

• Maintain laboratory data generated from testing using both paper and computer-based records. 

• Effectively utilize computer hardware and associated software required for laboratory operations. 

(10%)  Maintain Quality Assurance and Safety Compliance

• Follow the laboratorys quality assurance plan and procedures. 

• Maintain quality-related documentation for assigned tests and actively adhere to QA/QC policies and procedures. 

• Comply with safety guidelines established by the University and the VDL. 

• Maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment, including proper disposal of biohazardous and chemical waste according to Environmental Health and Safety and laboratory guidelines. 

(5%) Manage Laboratory Equipment and Inventory

• Maintain appropriate inventory levels of testing kits and supplies for assigned assays. 

• Prepare reagents and solutions as needed. 

• Operate laboratory equipment necessary to perform assigned testing procedures. 

(5%) Support Additional Section Operations

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Section Head. 

Location and Work Environment 

• This position is located at the UMN Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in the Serology section. 

• The role is fully in-person.

Work Schedule 

• Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM5:00 PM. 

• Occasional overtime may be required, including some Holiday and on-call work. 

Appointment Term 

• 12-month appointment term 

Essential Employee Designation 

• Essential Employee 

Visa Sponsorship Language 

• This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship 

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Microbiology, Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Biochemistry, or a closely related field; or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least four years.

• Hands-on experience performing ELISA or other serological assays.

• Strong understanding of laboratory safety practices, quality control, and standard laboratory procedures.

• Experience working within a quality system environment, adhering to established quality assurance and control procedures.

• Experience with the operation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Demonstrated professionalism, responsibility, reliability, and self-motivation, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong commitment to integrity, quality, and excellence in all job functions.

• Proven ability to work cooperatively and efficiently in a fast-paced, team- oriented environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods, safely handle laboratory materials, and perform repetitive manual tasks as needed. 

• Must be able to lift 4050 lbs.

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: $21.93 - $27.03/hr ; 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