Facility
Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
GENERAL PURPOSE
Reporting to the Sr. Director of Veterinary Services with minimal supervision, this position researches and collects samples to detect Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV). Using independent judgement, the lab technician demonstrates thoroughness and patience, and attention to detail in carrying out experiments and forming well-founded and accurate research conclusions as the results have a significant effect on the health of Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s elephant herd. Assignments require technical aptitude to learn and implement different equipment protocols. The lab technician must efficiently manage incoming sample submissions, keep accurate records of samples, assays run, and results, analyze qPCR data and controls, and anticipate potential problems. The technician is expected to carry out a variety of activities associated with research and analysis which require special skill and judgment. The technician will participate in the design and implementation of certain research projects and literature review projects. Because of the unpredictable nature of research, the lab technician is expected to be able to be innovative and flexible in completing assigned tasks. Data acquisition and handling require great care and attention to detail. Guidelines include established procedures for research and laboratory work, as well as novel methods in the field of molecular genetic analysis. Application of new procedures may require modification to suit existing equipment and test conditions.
ESSENTIAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
Core Lab Duties
• Input medical records, test results, and lab data into the Zoo’s electronic medical record system (ZIMs) in a timely fashion.
• Conduct research and laboratory procedures, including isolation of DNA from blood, trunk washes and tissues, set-up and running of polymerase chain reactions (PCR), and analysis of the PCR sequences from commercially sequenced samples.
• Accurately determine levels of viral DNA in samples.
• Responsible for general lab maintenance, including preparation of solutions, inventory/stocking/ordering of general lab supplies, entering data into computer databases, an analysis of the PCR sequences from commercially sequenced samples.
• Provide assistance to the veterinary team with animal care (zoo collection or wildlife) when needed.
• Effectively perform laboratory work, including but not limited to hormone levels, blood, urine, and fecal testing.
• Ensure appropriate handling and submission of laboratory samples as directed by veterinarian daily.
• Provide assistance with necropsies including collecting and preparing tissues/biologic samples for evaluation.
• Assist in the development of research and laboratory protocols, tests and validate new protocols, keeps existing laboratory protocols up-to-date, and help draft Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) research proposals when needed.
• Attend relevant meetings with Department staff.
• Independently perform routine analytical work, determine specific project priorities, and utilize experimental procedures following instruction.
• Assist with the evaluation of research and laboratory protocols, discussing any modifications with the Sr. Director of Veterinary Services.
Lab Safety, Sanitation, Maintenance and Organization
• Organize animal sample storage for future diagnostic use and data banking.
• Always maintain all lab equipment and facilities in a clean and ready state.
• Complete administrative duties as assigned, such as but not limited to: inventory, ordering, and drug logs.
• Promote a safe work environment daily by reporting concerns.
• Aid in all-zoo signal response as appropriate.
Provide Excellent Animal Care
• Use good judgment, thoroughness, and accuracy applied in testing which has a significant effect on the data generated and has a direct correlation to the health of Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s elephant herd and research conclusions.
Provide Excellent Staff and Visitor Experience
• Perform special assignments and projects as requested and assists with other shifts as needed.
• Assume new responsibilities as necessary to assure achievement of established objectives.
• Monitor veterinary students, lab students, and volunteers who visit the lab.
• Conduct tours and share information with guests and media after the information has been approved for release.
Education and Pre-requisites
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent related experience required.
Prior experience in a PCR lab preferred.
Applicable experience in an AZA facility preferred.
Hormone analysis preferred.
Knowledge of the methods and techniques of molecular genetics to provide technical support and assistance in this area.
Knowledge of basic DNA analyses such as polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing analysis.
Knowledge of use of pipettors, centrifuges, and other common lab equipment.
Knowledge and experience in aseptic technique.
Knowledge of and ability to calculate dilution factors, molarity, DNA concentration, and other molecular biology calculations.
Ability to travel for continuing education, presenting at conferences, and providing support at other AZA facilities if needed.
Ability to network and maintain collegial relationships to further promote animal health care.
Ability to work with diverse passionate team members all contributing to a common goal.
Skill in the use of word processing, database and sequencing software packages.
Valid California Driver’s License or valid Driver’s License from another state with the ability to obtain a California license within 6 months of employment.
Must have a clean driving record.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills required. Bilingual skills a plus.
Ability to work scheduled overtime or flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
These are physical and mental requirements of the position as it is typically performed. Inability to meet one or more of these physical or mental requirements will not automatically disqualify a candidate or employee from the position. Upon request for a reasonable accommodation, the Zoo may be able to adjust or excuse one or more of these requirements, depending on the requirement, the essential functions to which it relates, and the proposed accommodation.
This position is regularly required to bend, stoop, crouch, and kneel; use hands and arms for care of animals and cleaning of enclosures.
Occasionally required to climb stairs or ladders.
Standing, walking, and manipulating equipment for long durations.
Fine motor skills and hand/eye coordination are necessary to manipulate pipettors and small plasticware.
Regularly required to lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds, and occasionally up to 75 pounds.
Visual acuity to read printed instructions and safety information. Color perception is preferred.
Data entry and report preparation require prolonged periods of sitting at a computer terminal.
Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication (in person and via telephone), at normal speaking levels with or without correction.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position regularly works with others including Zoo executives and employees, Zoo guests and community members, media and government officials.
The position primarily functions indoors, with frequent exposure to outdoor Zoo environments and external events.
The employee is regularly exposed to a variety of animals with risk of animal bites (including venomous), zoonotic disease, and other animal-related injury.
Regular local travel and occasional out-of-town travel required.
The lab technician will be thoroughly instructed in the standard safety procedures. The building is equipped with safety showers, eye wash stations, and emergency kits containing materials to be used in the event of laboratory accidents, including chemical spills, fires and equipment failures.
Required to wear appropriate attire and, if necessary, additional safety wears (lab coats, gloves, masks, and safety glasses) while performing laboratory procedures and working with animal samples.
Analytical procedures may entail work with hot objects, corrosive acids, potential carcinogens/mutagens, UV light, and other potentially hazardous materials.
Compensation and benefits
Our comprehensive compensation package includes 100% employer paid Medical/Dental/Vision, Employee Assistance Program, 401k, 10 Paid Holidays, Paid Sick and Paid Vacation time on an accrued basis. The pay range for this position is $24-$27 per hour. Offers will be based on the successful candidate’s experience.