Description

The Wales Veterinary Science Centre (WVSC) is currently recruiting for a Laboratory Technician to join the team in our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory in Aberystwyth. This role is varied to support the diversity of work conducted at WVSC but will mostly include: performing veterinary diagnostic lab tests (ELISA blood tests such as BVD antigen and antibody testing, faecal parasitology, bacteriological smear staining) in accordance with quality standards (ISO/IEC 17025), reporting results to customers, keeping the work environment tidy and organised, record keeping, and assisting our vets with livestock necropsies (postmortem examinations).
Applicants should have a BSc in biology (or related discipline) and previous laboratory experience. Excellent IT skills would be an advantage. Full or part-time working will be considered but the successful candidate would be required to work a minimum of 4 days a week.

THE PRIMARY ROLE OF THE LABORATORY TECHNICIAN:
• Receiving and checking-in samples.
• Preparing samples for testing e.g., centrifugation.
• Performing various tests (faecal parasitology, ELISA blood tests, smear staining). Training for all tests will be provided.
• Preparing results reports.
• Reporting results to customers.
• Carrying out work in accordance with quality standards (ISO/IEC 17025).
• Cleaning and disinfecting of the working environment.
• Keeping records e.g., of samples stored/cleaning and maintenance of equipment.
• Adherence to health and safety protocols for themselves and others.
• Arranging the ordering of consumables as required.
• The Centre also performs livestock necropsies (postmortem examinations) and laboratory technicians will be asked to assist vets with these as part of this role.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant science discipline.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamworking skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to follow laboratory protocols.
• Record keeping skills.
• Ability to work to strict deadlines.
• Good communication & IT skills.

DESIRABLE BUT NOT ESSENTIAL FOR THE RIGHT CANDIDATE:
• Experience working in a laboratory.
• A willingness and ability to handle dead animals and tissue samples.
• Welsh language (spoken and written).
• BCG vaccination.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
• Full time or part time (80%)
• Full time terms are 7.5 hour working day (08.30 to 17.00), 37.5 hrs/week, but flexibility expected due to seasonality of work
• FTE holiday allowance is 20 days plus bank holidays (plus 1 additional day for every full year worked up to a maximum of 5 additional days).
• Training by a range of media, including inhouse training must be undertaken.
• Location: WVSC Laboratory, Aberystwyth.
• Salary: £26,227.50.