About the Job
This position supports the diagnostic and production activities of
the Laboratory for Udder Health (LUH) within the Veterinary
Diagnostic Laboratory by performing microbiological testing,
culture media preparation, and quality assurance processes. The
role contributes to accurate, timely diagnostic results and
high-quality product delivery that support animal health and client
needs. Success in this position requires strong attention to
detail, technical proficiency in laboratory practices, effective
communication, and the ability to work both independently and
collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. A commitment to
quality, safety, and continuous improvement is essential.
Job Duties
45% Testing/General Laboratory Responsibilities
o Perform microbiological testing and related procedures in
accordance with established protocols.
o Set up and prepare samples for diagnostic testing, accurately
interpret results, and ensure proper documentation in LIMS.
o Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory instruments to ensure
reliable and consistent performance.
o Respond to Oceasoft alerts, investigate issues, and ensure timely
resolution.
o Provide responsive customer service by addressing phone calls,
emails, and client inquiries.
o Assist with inventory management, including preparation and
restocking of laboratory supplies.
o Follow laboratory safety procedures, biosafety guidelines, and
regulatory protocols at all times.
o Perform general laboratory maintenance such as supply stocking,
transporting biohazardous waste to the autoclave room, and
maintaining cleanliness.
o Conduct daily quality control on prepared media, including
contamination checks, growth pattern assessment, and
record-keeping.
o Review relevant literature to remain current on diagnostic
testing as directed.
o Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
25% Media Laboratory Responsibilities
o Perform quality control and maintenance of culture media in
accordance with protocols.
o Stamp and process media, prepare plate orders, and package
shipments for clients.
o Create and affix shipping labels, transport packages to
designated docks, and record charges in the shipping system.
o Provide backup support for media laboratory and student
responsibilities as needed.
o Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
15% Expanded Laboratory Duties-LUH
o Responsible for keeping up to date on email and client
communication: [contact details available in the full listing]
o Assist with drafting, revising, and editing SOPs, forms, and
related documentation.
o Assist with the implementation of new diagnostic tests to expand
capabilities.
o Identify areas for improvement and recommend efficiency
enhancements to supervisor.
o Troubleshoot equipment, procedures, and diagnostic processes as
needed.
o Receive supplies, verify against orders, record in the chemical
log as appropriate, and label chemicals according to SOPs.
o Support research initiatives and participate in special
projects.
o Maintain and document assigned equipment in Q-Pulse.
o Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
10% Quality Assurance / Quality Control (QAQC)
o Participate in quality assurance activities in accordance with
the VDL Quality Manual (SYS.QM.001) and System Policies
(SYS.POLICY.001).
o Perform all procedures according to VDL SOPs.
o Assist in the detection and review of nonconforming work,
determination of corrective/preventive actions, and contribute to
continuous improvement initiatives.
o Review and update CV or resume annually, providing a copy to
supervisor as needed.
5% Safety
o Employee is trained to follow the lab safety plan created by the
Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
Work Schedule
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, or an equivalent schedule as
arranged with the supervisor. The employee is required to work
select University of Minnesota holidays. Overtime may be required
based on operational needs. Occasional weekend or other
non-standard hours may be required as needed.
Qualifications
All required qualifications must be included in the application
materials
Required Qualification: BA/BS degree or a combination of
related education and work experience to equal at least four
years.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Coursework in laboratory science or prior laboratory
experience
- Demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and
self-motivation
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a
team environment
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Commitment to quality, integrity, and attention to detail in
all aspects of work
About the Department
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 and Benefits
Pay Range: $31.93-$23.01 per hour, 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.
How To Apply
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 jobcentr@umn.edu.
Diversity
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
Employment Requirements
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.
About University of Minnesota
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, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State
(2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence &
Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life
flexibility.
