Clinical Pathology Technician

Summary

The Clinical Pathology Technician at the Animal Health Institute (AHI) is responsible for the day-to-day operations in the clinical pathology laboratory space, located in the Companion Animal Clinic (CAC). Activities will include collaboration with the veterinary laboratory team and maintaining and using standard diagnostic equipment to analyze clinical samples. This job will require close attention to detail and awareness of precision instrumentation, excellent technical, communication, and interpersonal skills, familiarity with laboratory health and safety standards and protocols, an ability to work independently, and a willingness to be flexible and adaptable to organizational growth and change. This position reports to the Manager of Diagnostic Pathology Center.

This position is structured across three levels, reflecting increasing levels of technical expertise, independence, problem-solving, leadership, and operational responsibility.

Core Responsibilities (All Levels)

• Routine sample preparation and analysis on an Advia hematology analyzer, Beckman Coulter biochemistry analyzer, Clinitek urine chemistry analyzer, and use of a slide stainer
• Receive, accession and maintain inventory of samples. Prepare and send samples to outside laboratories when necessary.
• Order and maintain inventory of lab supplies, including reagents and other lab materials.
• Use and maintain knowledge of EMR and LIS systems used in lab and know how to troubleshoot such systems. Coordinate and interact with Animal Health Institute (AHI) staff on IT issues when necessary
• Perform regular equipment QA/QC and maintenance
• Troubleshoot equipment and work with vendor tech support when needed. Notify AHI management and facilities on larger issues
• Participate in laboratory meetings and team planning
• Provide client services and communication to students, faculty, and technical staff as needed
• Other job-related duties as assigned

Level I

Primary Focus: Execution of routine lab tasks under supervision while developing technical proficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform basic sample processing and testing with oversight
• Accurately enter and maintain patient/sample records
• Follow established SOPs and workflows
• Assist with inventory management and stocking
• Perform basic equipment maintenance and cleaning
• Escalate equipment or result issues to senior staff
• Support teaching environment (students/faculty interaction)

Level II

Primary Focus: Independent operation with strong troubleshooting skills and workflow ownership.

Key Responsibilities:

• Independently perform and validate diagnostic testing
• Troubleshoot equipment, assays, and LIS/EMR issues
• Perform and document QA/QC processes
• Coordinate sample submissions to external laboratories
• Train and mentor Level I technicians and students
• Assist in development and refinement of SOPs
• Communicate findings effectively with clinicians and faculty
• Identify workflow inefficiencies and recommend improvements

Level III

Primary Focus: Leadership in lab operations, quality assurance, training, and process optimization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily laboratory operations and workflow efficiency
• Lead QA/QC programs and ensure regulatory compliance
• Serve as primary liaison for equipment vendors and technical support
• Develop, implement, and maintain SOPs and best practices
• Train, mentor, and assess technicians and students
• Support new test development and laboratory expansion initiatives
• Partner with leadership on strategic planning and lab growth
• Analyze lab performance metrics and implement improvements
• Assist with budgeting, supply forecasting, and resource allocation

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. A qualified applicant must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner and have reasonable, regular, in-person attendance. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

Level 1

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required
• 1-3 years of related experience or an Associates degree
• Basic familiarity with laboratory equipment preferred

Level II

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 3-5 years clinical pathology or diagnostic lab experience
• Demonstrated proficiency with lab instrumentation and LIS

Level III

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 5+ years advanced clinical pathology lab experience
• Proven leadership, training, and operational oversight experience
• Certification in H(ASCP) or equivalent clinical pathology certifications

Computer Skills:

Computer proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Must become proficient with an integrated hospital management system; previous experience desirable.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of the job, the employee is frequently required to stand for long periods, walk, use hands to manipulate, reach with hands and arms, talk, and hear. This individual is regularly required to sit, stoop, or kneel. This individual will frequently be required to lift up to 20 pounds, and infrequently up to 40 pounds.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. This individual will be exposed to: moving mechanical parts, risk of electric shock, fumes or airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.