Competition # : 49736
Department: Agriculture
Location: BIBLE HILL
Type of Employment: Term
Union Status: NSGEU - NSPG
Closing Date: 17-Sep-26 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)
The Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture (NSDA) manages the Animal Health Laboratory that analyzes a range of animal (herd/flock) health diagnoses. Services are aimed primarily at agricultural producers and industry, but are also available to private companies, other government agencies, researchers and the public.
Under the management of the Manager, Animal Health Laboratory, and with direction from the Lead Technical Coordinator (LTC), Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) is responsible for sample analysis in a variety of laboratory testing functions.
As a Medical Laboratory Technologist, your primary duties are in Serology (avian ELISA), Parasitology, Bacteriology and Histology sections.
Additionally, you will be responsible for:
- Testing, which includes food safety (Salmonella, E. coli/coliform and Staph aureus).
- Performing routine and specialized tests of various sample materials to assist the Veterinary Pathologist in reaching a diagnosis.
- Sample collections that range from animal/bird sera, animal tissues, feces, milk, urine, environmental samples - barn dust/hatchery fluffs, cheese, and tissues preserved in formalin.
You must be a graduate of a recognized Medical Laboratory Technologist course, be a member of the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) and be eligible for licensing in the Province of Nova Scotia (NSCMLT).
Additionally, as a successful candidate, you must have:
- Ability to communicate effectively, work proactively in problem solving, with time management skills and strong decision-making skills.
- Knowledge of general laboratory techniques such as: laboratory instrumentation; sterile/aseptic technique; safe work practices; laboratory guidelines; confidentiality protocol and Accreditation protocol.
- Familiarity with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) and certifiable in First Aid/CPR and the Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS).
- Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) as it pertains to sample integrity and preparation.
- Ability to prioritize work and organize workload for maximum efficiency.
- Demonstrated responsibility for safe, efficient operation of laboratory equipment. You will inform the lab supervisor (TLOS) of any problems or malfunctions.
- Ability to follow directions from management, LTC, and/or Veterinary Pathologist is essential.
The following will be considered an asset:
- Working knowledge, training or proven ability in serology, molecular diagnostic techniques, histology, and veterinary bacteriology.
We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.
Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.
Works in a comfortable office setting. However, in labs, exposure to a variety of materials and conditions, including: sharps (tools and lab equipment), dust, noise, vibration, moisture, chemicals. You will be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
- Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
- Countless career paths.
Pay Grade: HSB 13 - HSB 17
Salary Range: $2,291.77 - $2,790.35 Bi-Weekly
Employment Equity Statement: Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians, Persons of African Descent, Racialized Persons, Persons with Disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ Persons and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented. If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify on your electronic application.
Accommodation Statement: We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Candidates may request accommodations based on any grounds protected by the Human Rights Act. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process, please contact us at [email protected].
This is a bargaining unit position initially restricted to current civil service employees represented by the Nova Scotia Government Employees Union (NSGEU).
Failure to apply correctly means that your application will not be given first consideration as a bargaining unit applicant, and will only be included if external applications are pursued.
External applicants and current casual employees will only be considered if there are no qualified civil service bargaining unit candidates. PLEASE NOTE: Candidates will not be considered for an interview if applications are incomplete or are missing information.
If you are receiving a pension from the Nova Scotia Public Service Superannuation Plan (PSSP) or any related plans, you cannot receive pension payments while contributing to the same plan. If you accept a position that requires PSSP contributions, your pension payments must be stopped. Please contact the Nova Scotia Pension Services Corporation for more information.
Offer of employment is conditional upon the completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials, the results of which must be satisfactory to the employer. We thank all applicants for the interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All questions and concerns may be directed to [email protected].
