SSIU Laboratory Technician II

Location: Lenexa, KS Job Summary and Purpose: Apply general microbiology, and molecular biology methods to ensure timely processing, identification, and results of clinical samples. Provide laboratory and administrative support to the Scientific Support and Investigation Unit (SSIU) team. Including assembly and quality review of diagnostic data and results, laboratory report preparation, laboratory material/reagent order, and data organization. Complete testing for internal and external customers, as requested. Participate in other projects as assigned. Understand and promote the CEVA Animal Health values and Business Objectives/Goals. Responsibilities and Key Duties: General Laboratory Support Ensure timely specimen processing for clinical samples Maintain l aboratory organization , cleaning schedules , reagent and freezer inventories W ork with hazardous chemicals and biological materials (handling and disposal) using appropriate PPE Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment Prepare, package and ship sampling supplies, isolates or specimens according to SOPs in timely manner Maintain accurate bench records and or assist with develop ing record forms Follow established SOPs and c ontr ibute to , or write SOPs and w hen necessary Prepare media or reagents used in laboratory tests and maintain preparation records Basic knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System ( LIMS ) . Enter data into and retrieve data from LIMS as needed Interm ediate knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word proficiency Prepare reports as needed for customers Provide cross-disciplinary support and other duties as assigned Adherence to, and p articipate in the implementation of safety and quality initiatives Participate in and support on the job training and required training of others Bacteriology Support Intermediate knowledge of bacterial propagation and identification methods , including microscopy , gram stain and bacterial plating methods Perform classical bacteriology methods on clinical samples to support isolation and identification of significant bacterial pathogens from avian, porcine and other sources Demonstrate good aseptic techniques in the manipulation of bacterial samples and strains such as streaking agar plates for isolation and passage Demonstrate good aseptic techniques with bacteri al cultures used for small-scale expansion of isolates in broth culture and the preparation of working stocks frozen archive Provide administrative support with the tracking of data on bacterial isolates, including dates of expiry, inventory control and adherence to quality standards Virology Support Intermediate knowledge of aseptic technique while working in a biosafety cabinet , Intermediate knowledge of cell counting, calculating cell density and dilution, and microscopic examination Intermediate knowledge of adherent and suspension cell culture methods , viral identification, propagation , and enumeration methods Participate in clean room laboratory work such as: Cell line passage processes , inoculation and harvesting of viral antigen Demonstrate good aseptic techniques with methods for archive and small-scale expansion of viral isolates Participate in solution/buffer/ media preparations Participate in inactivation of live antigen process Provide administrative support with the tracking of data on viral isolates, including dates of expiry, inventory control and adherence to quality standards Molecular Support Perform routine sample processing and DNA extractions for incoming samples Fundamental working knowledge of molecular methods , particularly conventional PCR and real-time PCR for bacterial, viral, and parasites Work with various molecular instruments ( automated nucleic acid extraction equipment , conventional PCR thermocyclers, real-time PCR thermocyclers, other) Perform methods supporting the N ext G eneration S equencing workflow s and outsourced sequencing workflows Teamwork with SID, R D, and Sales Marketing Communicate and track the results/data and organize information efficiently Review all test requests and results thoroughly for errors, omissions, and clarify any potential problems and notify supervisors of discrepancies and perform corrective actions Assist in animal trials or studies as needed Cross-train with other internal teams – molecular, serology, virology techniques to perform other tasks as needed USDA Regulations and Internal Quality Assurance Maintain and review complete and accurate bench records following appropriate guidelines Understand and follow methods to support Autogenous outlines as needed Follow internal quality assurance guidelines Core Competencies: Shape solutions out of complexity - Work to evolve immediate environment and accepts need for flexibility Client focus - Make sure needs and requests are treated equally and in a positive way Collaborate with empathy - Fully takes part in the working group to share information, listens to others and have a clear idea of the decisions taken Engage and develop - Open to share knowledge and to receive feedback from others Drive ambition and accountability - Ensure accuracy of work the use of KPI's and a responsible commitment to reaching target Influence others - Show structure and confidence while speaking, consciously tries to persuade Technical / Functional Competencies: Aseptic technique Knowledge of animal infectious diseases Microbiology laboratory function Mathematical aptitude Effective communication skills – both written and verbal Self-starting Initiative to work independently, within a team and under supervision as needed Organized with the ability to prioritize Qualifications: Education – MS in Virology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biology or equivalent preferred; or BA/BS in science related field with 1-3 years of relevant experience in virology/microbiology/or molecular laboratory or diagnostic setting. Work Experience - Intermediate knowledge in microbiology Intermediate knowledge of classical bacteriology and/or viral culture methods Fundamental working knowledge of molecular biology techniques and analysis Physical Requirements: Able to read, write, and communicate in English Bending 20% Lifting up to 30 pounds Standing 10% Visual inspection 75% Verbal communication 80% Working Conditions: The work setting is a microbiological laboratory. Exposures to zoonotic agents are probable. Variable temperatures can be experienced Travel Required: This position will require up to 5% time for business travel. This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the job and general nature and level of work performed by job holders within this job. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties and responsibilities or working conditions associated with the job. This job description is not an employment contract. Ceva reserves the right to modify job duties and/or job descriptions at any time to meet the needs of the business. *VEVRAA Federal Contractor **Ceva is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Ceva encourages men and women, members of all racial and ethnic groups, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply. 669B