Serology Lab Tech (HC Pro 1-Clinical Lab Science)

Position Overview

The Serology Laboratory Technician position in the Serology Section of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory supports the laboratory's 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 laboratory's 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 AM-5:00 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

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's 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 40-50 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 Minnesota's 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
• 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 employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

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), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.