Immunopathology Technician II

JOB SUMMARY

Generate and record data in the performance of basic to moderately complex tasks associated with or in support of immunopathology laboratory procedures. Responsible for handling and processing samples, and performing accurate data collection and reporting.  Provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced staff. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:   

• Perform basic to moderately complex tasks associated with or in support of immunopathology laboratory procedures and collect and record/document research data in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), study protocols and company policies/practices. 
• Handle unfixed human and animal tissues (e.g. preparation of frozen OCT-embedded tissue blocks and cryotomy). 
• Perform dilution calculations, basic chemistry, and limited problem solving. 
• Ensure the use of appropriate positive/negative tissue controls; fixations, staining procedures/techniques, and solution preparation. 
• Input, print and edit computer entries (e.g., laboratory data). 
• Receive samples and complete tracking documentation.  
• Review documentation of functions performed as part of quality control requirements. 
• Perform study preparation activities including sample labeling, equipment verifications, identifying supply needs, and working with study personnel to develop and implement study specific procedures (as appropriate).  
• Perform more difficult/strenuous immunopathology tasks (e.g. high volume staining, simultaneous staining of different procedures, high volume cryotomy, precomplexes, and/or cross-reactivity staining, etc.) 
• May work with hazardous materials in biosafety cabinet as needed (e.g. immunotoxin conjugated test materials) 
• May assist with reviewing and updating processes and SOPs as assigned.  
• May participate in sponsor representative interactions under the direct supervision of senior scientific staff or management. 
• Maintain clean work areas.  
• Perform all other related duties as assigned. 

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education:  Bachelor’s degree (B.A. / B.S) or equivalent relevant experience in laboratory science or related discipline required. 

Experience:  Two or more years related experience in biology, chemistry/pharmacy, or similar lab environment; GLP experience preferred.   

Other:  Knowledge of GLPs and other federal regulations and guidelines. Attention to detail and accuracy a must.  Must be able to communicate effectively with management, coworkers and sponsors.  Basic Microsoft Office skills are required.  Understanding of mathematical concepts preferred.  

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time while performing laboratory tasks. 
• Frequently required to walk, sit, stand, reach with hands and arms, and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls in a repetitive manner. 
• Regularly operate a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer. 
• Regularly uses close vision and the ability to adjust focus and detect and differentiate colors. 
• Must regularly communicate with employees/customers; must be able to exchange accurate information. 
• Employees must be able to lift, move, manipulate, and/or hold heavy objects up to and including 40 pounds occasionally; this includes work materials, equipment, and/or supplies. 
• Must be able to wear safety equipment (PPE) according to OSHA regulations and company standards.   

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• General laboratory working conditions. 
• May work in a chemical fume hood. 
• May work with sharp objects. 
• Regularly wears protective clothing (gloves, lab coat, and safety glasses). 
• Regularly works with or near toxic or caustic chemicals. 
• Regularly works with biohazards. 
• The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. 

COMMENTS:  

• This position requires overtime, weekend, holiday, and/or after hours shift coverage, as needed.