Microbiology - Medical Laboratory Technician

As a Medical Laboratory Technician in our Microbiology department in Wetherby, you will receive, prepare, and assess veterinary samples to help veterinarians identify what might be wrong with someone's pet. You might be surprised at the similarities between a human clinical microbiology lab and a veterinary clinical microbiology lab. In most cases we use exactly the same media and process the same samples. In addition, we also use the same equipment, recover a lot of the same micro-organisms. And test many of the same antibiotics. We have the privilege of helping not just one species – last year we received specimens from over 70 different species and 20 different countries! One day is never the same as another.

Why this role matters:

IDEXX reference laboratories are a global network united by a shared commitment to enhancing pet care. We receive thousands of clinical samples every day from Veterinary Clinics. Every sample you help to move along quickly and accurately in the process means we are one step closer to finding out how or why they might be sick.  Thanks to you, someone's very beloved pet will get the treatment plan they need.

In This Role:  

• You will receive, prepare, and access veterinary samples (mostly urine and feces) for laboratory analysis and testing.  
• You will be involved in the analysis and evaluation of chemical and microscopic components of urine samples, using automated instrumentation and manual techniques.
• You will examine samples to identify parasites, utilizing fecal flotation and various microscopic techniques.
• You will process clinical samples for the identification of bacteria and fungi using automated and manual methods as well.
• You will have a workload which often includes samples from livestock and exotic species through regular zoo screening.
• From day one, you'll have full autonomy in your work, but you'll also get full support when you need it. 

What You Need to Succeed:

• A bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences/microbiology or an equivalent combination of education
• Desirably experience in a similar position or veterinary practice, especially with practical experience in Urinalysis, Parasitology and/or Microbiology
• Interest in performing automated instrumentation as well as manual methods
• Experience in a fast-paced, high-volume work environment and the ability to prioritize and multi-task
• Ability to read, understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's), including safety and quality procedures  
• A positive attitude and love to bring this energy into the lab every day to support your colleagues, whether working independently or as a team contributor
• Ability to meet the physical requirements that go with working in a lab – standing and sitting for extended periods of time, phone & computer use, extended reach, lifting up to 50lb, and specific vision ability – close, colour, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 

Schedule:   

• The hours for this position are Tuesday – Saturday, with a flexible start between 06:00 and 08:00 until 14:30 or 16:30 (to also participate in the Sunday rotation, normally 1 in 6)
• Reliable and dependable attendance is an essential function of this position.   

What you can expect from us:
In addition to competitive salaries, IDEXX offers a generous benefits package:

• 10% salary contribution to your pension
• Inclusion in Bonus plan
• Access to Independent Financial Advisors
• Life Insurance
• Income Protection Insurance
• Eye Care vouchers
• Access to a global Employee Assistance Program
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Yearly flu vaccinations
• Up to 16 hours paid Volunteer Time Off per year
• Access to Private Medical Insurance

Why IDEXX? :   

We’re proud of the work we do because our work matters. An innovation leader in every industry we serve, we follow our Purpose and Guiding Principles to help pet owners worldwide keep their companion animals healthy and happy, to ensure safe drinking water for billions, and to help farmers protect livestock and poultry from disease. We have customers in over 175 countries and a global workforce of over 10,000 talented people.

So, what does that mean for you? We enrich the livelihoods of our employees with a positive and respectful work culture that embraces challenges and encourages learning and discovery.   At IDEXX, you will be supported by competitive compensation, incentives, and benefits while enjoying purposeful work that drives improvement. 

“ Let’s pursue what matters together "

IDEXX values a diverse workforce and workplace and strongly encourages women, people of colour, LGBT individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.

IDEXX is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, colour, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.

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