LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (#NA5 )

$38.36-$48.50 hourly / $6,649.00-$8,407.00 monthly / $79,788.80-$100,880.00 yearly

Under supervision, to assist in biological and chemical examinations and related technical procedures in a public health laboratory; to operate and maintain basic laboratory equipment; to keep accurate and concise records on examinations; and to do other work as required.

Incumbents in this para-professional class assist the professional staff of the Laboratory Services Division in the Health Services Agency by preparing microbiological specimens for examinations, performing preventative maintenance of equipment and performing examination procedures. The Laboratory Technician is distinguished from the Clinical Laboratory Technologist in that the Technician may carry out specific tests but cannot perform complex, quantitative examinations, read, record, sign and report out results of examinations, or do quantitative measurements of samples and reagents.

Prepares microbiological specimens for examination, prepares and stains slides for examinations; prepares various media reagents, and specimens for testing and analysis by licensed personnel. Performs preventative maintenance of equipment; monitors equipment for temperature and quality control; tests culture media for quality control; operates centrifuge, pipettes and inactivates blood sera; operates autoclave for various sterilizing procedures; prepares mailing containers; performs standardized bacterial, physical and chemical tests of potable, non-potable and recreational waters; assists in the preparation of animals for autopsy; maintains and orders chemicals and supplies; disposes of hazardous and bio-hazardous waste materials in accordance with State and Federal regulation; maintains accurate records and reports; assists professional staff as needed.

Knowledge:

• Working knowledge of basic laboratory methods, techniques and procedures;
• Working knowledge of use and care of basic laboratory test equipment and apparatus;
• Working knowledge of the dangers of harmful bacteria and communicable disease;
• Some knowledge of medical and scientific terminology;
• Some knowledge of principles of chemistry, biology and bacteriology.

• Maintain laboratory in clean and orderly condition;
• Follow complex oral and written instructions;
• Keep accurate records;
• Make basic mathematical and algebraic calculations;
• Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted in the course of work;
• Make minor repairs and adjustments of mechanical devices and scientific equipment.

Training and Experience: Any combination of training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, is qualifying. A typical way to obtain these knowledge and abilities would be:

Two years of experience as a laboratory assistant in a public health or clinical laboratory.

OR

Successful completion of at least 60 semester or 90 quarter units from an accredited college or university, which included laboratory, courses in chemistry and biology or an equivalent natural science.

Special Requirement: Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License or the incumbent must be able to provide suitable transportation approved by the department head.