Job Description

Description

This opportunity is currently available for internal applicants only as THERE IS A STRONG INTERNAL CANDIDATE FOR THIS POSITION.


The

Diagnostic Services Unit

in the

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine

invites applications for a

Senior Molecular Technician

. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 29 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.


The Senior Molecular Technician is a member of the Diagnostic Services Unit (DSU) of the University of Calgary, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM). Reporting to Manager, DSU Laboratories and receiving day-to-day directions from the Clinical Virologist and the Molecular Lab Supervisor, the senior Molecular Technician carries out various activities that support the molecular lab.


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.


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):

Must work as part of a team to support teaching and service activities of the DSU. Responsible for working effectively under the day-to-day direction of the Clinical Virologist and Molecular Lab Supervisor Performs specific laboratory activities which may include but are not limited to preparation and maintenance of reagents, solutions and other materials as required, processing of molecular diagnostics samples, identification of pathogenic viruses, bacteria, and parasites by using appropriate DNA or RNA analysis to determine the presence/absence of different genes, operation of laboratory equipment, and other associated activities as required Performs testing and processing of samples for serology, parasitology, and bacteriology as required In conjunction with the lab supervisor, monitor laboratory consumables and supply inventory, procuring and ordering items as needed to ensure uninterrupted workflow and operational efficiency Conducts disposal of pathogens by sterilization, incineration, or through medical waste services; prepares, cleans, and sterilizes laboratory glassware Maintains accurate records and reviews molecular testing results for each submission in the Laboratory Information System; communicates and presents findings to the Clinical Virologist or Veterinary Pathologist Contributes to the development and implementation of quality assurance and quality control programs for the Molecular Lab, including drafting, reviewing, and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Adheres to biosecurity protocols when handling invasive and pathogenic microorganisms, including zoonotic agents Identifies laboratory issues and applies appropriate corrective actions, resolving them independently when possible or escalating as necessary Demonstrates flexibility and adjusts levels of service delivery to meet the timelines and varying peaks in workload Performs at a very high degree of accuracy, efficiency with an understanding that services have a direct impact on teaching, research and service. Interacts with faculty members, staff members, students and clients in an effective, positive and helpful manner Ensures related University, UCVM and DSU policies and procedures are always adhered to Makes a positive impact on all requests and inquiries by faculty members, staff members, clients, and students

Qualifications / Requirements:

A Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related field or 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), or equivalent A minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of experience in diagnostic microbiology, preferably in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory Sound knowledge of molecular and microbiological techniques including bacteriology, serology and parasitology Demonstrated proficiency in operating, monitoring, and maintaining diagnostic laboratory equipment, or the ability and willingness to learn Ability to push, pull, lift or carry moderate weight- 20-40 lbs 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 Sound knowledge of the principles of sanitation and disinfection or a willingness to learn is required Understanding of and ability to work using industry specific laboratory safety standards Demonstrated ability to function as a productive team member as well as work independently is required Excellent communication (written and oral), organization, interpersonal, and customer service skills are required Capable of handling high-pressure situations with professionalism, ensuring timely and accurate outcomes

Application Deadline:

November 7, 2025

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 universitys 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 (

oic@ucalgary.ca

) and requests for accommodations can be sent to People & Culture (

hrhire@ucalgary.ca

).

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.