Description
The Diagnostic Services Unit in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine invites applications for a Senior Serology Technician. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 18 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
The Senior Serology Laboratory Technician is a member of the Diagnostic Services Unit (DSU) of the University of Calgary, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM). Reporting to and receiving day-to-day direction from the Manager DSU Laboratories, and under the clinical guidance of the Clinical Veterinary Virologist and the Poultry Pathologist, the Senior Serology Technician carries out various activities that support the microbiology laboratory.
This position requires effective communication skills, and all work accountabilities must be carried out with a high degree of competency, professionalism, and accuracy. The successful candidate must have the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, while also working effectively as a team member. Attention to detail is crucial regarding standard operating procedures. The work is of varying complexity, with peak periods and short timelines for completion.
The laboratory work environment has the inherent potential for exposure to dangerous materials and situations; however, risk of exposure or injury is substantially decreased through application of safe work practices and protocols.
The hours of work are normally Monday through Friday, 35 hours per week. Scheduling may vary on occasion; therefore, flexibility is required. On occasion, there may be the need to work outside of regular hours including weekends. The position is based out of the Clinical Skills Building (CSB) at the Spy Hill Campus, but travel to Foothills Campus may be required.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
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Works as part of a team to support teaching and service activities of the DSU, interacting with a variety of stakeholders. Responsible for working effectively under the day-to-day direction of the Manager, DSU Laboratories and the clinical guidance of the Clinical Veterinary Virologist and the Poultry Pathologist
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Prepare samples, dilute, process, incubate, read and report test results from ELISA procedures for serum antibody detection
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Maintain, record and review results from serological testing of each submission into the LIMS. Presents results to the Manager, DSU Laboratories or Veterinary Virologist, and the Poultry Pathologist
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Participates in development and adherence to quality assurance / quality control program for lab, including writing, reviewing and revising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
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Maintains quality standards and participates in proficiency testing to meet accreditation standards including acceptance/rejection criteria, report on non-conforming tests, adequate audit trail from receipt to disposal
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Develops and validates new methods initiated by the Clinical Veterinary Virologist and the Poultry Pathologist
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Maintains inventory for consumables, PPE, commercial identification systems, biochemical tests, and reagents. Disposes of outdated stock through HazMat and Chematix
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Oversees maintenance and operation of laboratory equipment and performs associated documentation of any work, alterations, enhancements, and calibrations
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Observes appropriate biosecurity procedures for invasive and pathogenic organisms, some of which are zoonotic
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Disposes of pathogens by sterilization and medical waste company; washes, prepares and sterilizes lab glassware
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Identifies problems and takes appropriate actions to resolve them independently or seeks the advice of the appropriate person
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Demonstrates flexibility and adjusts levels of service delivery to meet the timelines and varying peaks in workload. Must be willing to train and support in other microbiology laboratory sections
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Performs at a very high degree of accuracy and efficiency with an understanding that services have a direct impact on service, research, and teaching. Interacts with faculty members, staff members, students, and clients in an effective, positive, and helpful manner
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Ensures related University, UCVM and DSU policies and procedures are adhered to at all times
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Practices effective communication skills to ensure collaboration with internal and external clients
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Builds effective working relationships that promote trust and collaboration
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Advises the Manager, DSU Laboratories or Veterinary Virologist and the Poultry Pathologist of any incident or occupational illness as outlined in University of Calgary Safety and Security protocols
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Familiarizes themselves with the University of Calgary statement on Principles of Conduct and conducts themselves according to these principles in all situations when representing the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine or while acting on behalf of the University
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Fosters a positive and productive work environment
Performs other related duties as required to support the services and other activities of the DSU
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Qualifications / Requirements:
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A Certification as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) (Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science-CSMLS), Medical Technologist (MT) (American Medical Technologists-AMT), Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) (ASCP), Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) (ASCP) is preferred. A Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology or an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
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A minimum of two years of experience in a diagnostic laboratory is required, preferably in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory
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Knowledge and experience with immunological techniques and terminology, theories and principles relevant to the methods used for the direct and indirect (antibody) detection of veterinary pathogens
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Must have previous experience writing SOP's and setting up a quality assurance/quality control program for a laboratory
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Detect technical/analytical errors, systematically identify the source of the error and quickly resolve the problem to ensure compliance with SOP's and procedures
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Proficient in the operation, monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting of diagnostic laboratory equipment
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Ability to tailor individual and unique support for a variety of stakeholders and project needs. Ability to push, pull, lift or carry moderate weight- 20-40 lbs
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Ability to work with computers and knowledge of or ability to learn management of electronic records or databases is required. Experience with a laboratory information management system (LIMS) would be considered an asset
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Sound knowledge of the principles of sanitation and disinfection or a willingness to learn is required
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Understanding and ability to work using industry-specific laboratory safety standards
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Demonstrated ability to function as a productive team member as well as work independently is required
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Proven organizational skills with the ability to set priorities and meet objectives. Attention to detail, accuracy, strong communication (written and oral), interpersonal, and customer service skills are required
Personable and able to respond professionally when faced with multiple demands and short timelines
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Application Deadline: September 18, 2026
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 2.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy ii' taa'poh'to'p committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
The university's commitment to the Indigenous Strategy is evident through the oversight of 18 Elders serving on the Circle of Advisors and the many unit-based circles working towards implementation of the strategy including the Faculty Advisory Circle and teams such as the Office of Indigenous Engagement, the Writing Symbols Lodge, and the Indigenous Research Support Team. Many Indigenous-based events and processes are impacting curriculum, programming and polices at the University of Calgary.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments ([email protected]) and requests for accommodations can be sent to People & Culture ([email protected]).
Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role.
We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
