Laboratory Assistant #00507

Title: Laboratory Assistant #00507

State Role Title: Laboratory & Research Spec I

Hiring Range: $32,843 - $44,000

Pay Band: 3

Agency: Virginia Department of Agriculture

Location: HARRISONBURG LAB-OFFICE

Agency Website: www.vdacs.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is seeking a qualified individual to serve as Laboratory Assistant for the Office of Laboratory Services, Division of Animal and Food Industry Services. This position will serve as administrative and laboratory support at the Regional Animal Health Laboratory located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The primary duties are aiding in performing animal autopsies (necropsies) on many species, with a particular focus on livestock. They will also provide customer service and assist in sample receiving, shipping, and case accessioning, and assist with other related duties as needed.

Exposure to Rabies virus is a possibility in this position and prophylactic Rabies vaccination or check for protective titers will be required as a condition of employment due to the handling of animal specimens.

Minimum Qualifications

This position requires the ability to communicate with and provide exceptional assistance to a wide range of individuals inside and out of the laboratory system. The physical capability to assist with large animal necropsies is required, as well as the mental and emotional ability to assist with postmortem exams on cadavers in varying states of preservation, and on those that are part of legal investigations. Essential is the ability to accurately follow instructions and safety guidelines; exercise independent judgement, take initiative to solve problems and communicate solutions, and perform detailed work. Also necessary is proficiency in using basic office software. Familiarity with basic animal anatomy, disease examinations, laboratory, veterinary, or medical terminology and procedures is strongly desired. Working knowledge of basic laboratory procedures and techniques, and skills in using laboratory information management systems is also desired. High School Diploma/GED required.
This position is physically demanding and requires the ability to lift up to 75 pounds, and occasionally lift over 75 pounds with assistance. There will be exposure to noise, vibration, dust, chemicals, and moving machinery. The role requires manual dexterity and visual acuity.

Additional Considerations

A combination of related education, training, or experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills, and abilities to include knowledge of animal science, anatomy, biology, or closely related scientific fields. Any current or recent experience in performing autopsies or necropsies, providing customer service, working in a laboratory, or performing data entry.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Final candidate must successfully complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

If you have been affected by DHRM Policy 1.30 Layoff, and possess a valid Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Card) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card), you must submit the card before the closing date for this position. The Card may be submitted with the state application as an attachment.

Contact Information

Name: Human Resources

Phone: 804-371-8581

Email: hr.vdacs@vdacs.virginia.gov

 

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at