Molecular Diagnostics Technician

We understand that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today, and that’s why we’re inspired to make A Better World for Pets. Antech is comprised of a diverse team of individuals who are committed to each other’s growth and development. Our culture is centered on our guiding philosophy, The Five Principles: Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom. Today Antech is driving the future of pet health as part of Mars Science & Diagnostics, a family-owned company focused on veterinary care.

Current Associates will need to apply through the internal career site. Please log into Workday and click on Menu or View All Apps, select the Jobs Hub app, then click the magnifying glass to Browse Jobs.

PURPOSE OF JOB:

The MDx R&D Technician is responsible for performing various molecular diagnostic protocols including sample collection and nucleic acid extraction, reverse transcription, analysis and interpretation of results and troubleshooting. This is a highly dynamic, interactive and fast-paced position requiring a pro-active can-do and can-solve attitude in an innovative molecular diagnostics arena.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential function. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Follow and perform protocols for various molecular diagnostics techniques.

Knowledge of sample collection and nucleic acid extraction with emphasis for molecular diagnostic testing.

Perform and analyze results for real-time PCR (qPCR),

May perform and analyze results for digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), array technologies based on microarray or beads, sequencing protocols, other molecular protocols.

Exercises judgment in evaluating and reporting results to supervisor.

Performs equipment maintenance.

Knowledge of lab equipment and procedures.

Awareness of quality control and calibration.

Developing knowledge of multiple specialties.

Library samples into a central sample collection (physical) and database (computer)

Cross-train and develop knowledge of multiple specialties within department/lab.

Applies job skills and lab policies and procedures to complete a variety of tasks.

Reads, understands and follows applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's), including safety and quality procedures. Maintains clean and organized work area.

Knowledge in supply inventory and restocking as needed.

Participates in improving lab efficiency, quality, and cooperation.

Consult with senior peers on troubleshooting problems.

May be asked to participate in enterprise initiatives, special projects, and other duties as assigned.

Reliable and dependable attendance is an essential function of the position. Adherence to attendance-related policies and expectations is critical to this position.

Performs other duties as assigned.

We share a collaborative obligation to ensure that we conduct ourselves in the utmost ethical manner and that we hold each other accountable to the values and standards of the organization. Every employee has the responsibility to ask questions, seek guidance, and report concerns and/or violations of company policy or ethical standards. Antech Diagnostics has several processes in place to communicate with leadership and expects that employees will have a commitment to integrity and uncompromising values.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

MS Degree in Molecular Biology, Biology, Cell & Molecular Biology, or related, a plus.

Bachelor’s Degree in Molecular Biology, Biology, Molecular Sciences, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, or related, required.

Typically 1-3 years of PCR related lab experience

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Laboratory skills, with experience setting up, running, interpreting and troubleshooting molecular tests and operating molecular lab instruments.

General science background, including cellular biology, basic nucleic acid biochemistry, biology of disease.

Attention to detail

Organized with ability to multi-task in a fast paced R&D environment

Ability to work independently and as part of an interactive team

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

Positive, can-do and can-solve attitude

Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) as appropriate.

Personal computer skills, including strong typing ability and proficient use of Microsoft Office

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Laboratory skills, with experience setting up, running, interpreting and troubleshooting molecular tests and operating molecular lab instruments.

General science background, including cellular biology, basic nucleic acid biochemistry, biology of disease.

Attention to detail

Organized with ability to multi-task in a fast paced R&D environment

Ability to work independently and as part of an interactive team

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

Positive, can-do and can-solve attitude

Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) as appropriate.

Personal computer skills, including strong typing ability and proficient use of Microsoft Office

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Extensive standing, phone, and computer use

Capable of standing continuously for up to 2 hours

Extend and reach with hands and arms and use hands and fingers

Occasionally required to bend, kneel, stoop, or crouch

May be required to lift, move, and carry up to 50 lbs

Specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Hearing ability to effectively communicate via the telephone and in person

Ability to communicate verbally on the phone and in person

Fluency in the English language

Extended hours may be needed

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Laboratory environment with potential biohazards present that are mitigated by the mandatory use of PPE.

Works under close to moderate supervision with limited latitude for independent judgment.

Normally receives general instructions on routine work, detailed instructions on new assignments.

Potential for exposure to agents known to cause zoonotic disease in humans and use of potentially hazardous chemicals as defined by the National Hazard Communication Standards. A complete list of such chemicals is available from department supervision.

The Target Pay Range for this position is $28.00 an hour. At Mars, pay decisions are determined using factors such as relevant job-related skills, experience, education, training and budget.

Antech offers an industry competitive benefits package and continues to invest in and evolve benefits programs that meet the health, wellness and financial needs of our associates.

Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits and more:

Medical, Dental, Vision (multiple plans available)

Basic Life (company paid) & Supplemental Life

Short and Long Term Disability (company paid)

Flexible Spending Accounts/Health Savings Accounts

Paid Parental Leave

401(k) with company match

Paid Time Off & Holidays

Tuition/Continuing Education Reimbursement

Life Assistance Program

Pet Care Discounts

Several other health and wellness benefits

We are a rapidly growing, stable company with excellent advancement opportunity. We offer a great benefits package and associate pet health benefits too! If you are passionate about animal healthcare, are motivated by making a difference we want to hear from you!

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans / Disabled. For a complete EEO statement please see our career page at Antech Careers

R-165137