Technician III (Canton, NY)
Job Description
The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine seeks a Technician III to join the Quality Milk Production Services team in Canton, NY. As a Technician III, you will play a vital role in supporting dairy farmers by providing high-quality technical assistance and services aimed at enhancing milk production and ensuring the health and welfare of dairy cattle. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of veterinary medicine, collaborating with industry experts and utilizing cutting-edge technologies to promote sustainable and efficient dairy farming practices. Join us in our mission to advance animal health and welfare while contributing to the success of the dairy industry.
The job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Provide a wide range of basic laboratory technical testing for Quality Milk Production Services Program in support of program goals and state mandates.
- Perform microbiological and immunological tests on specimens collected by field staff or submitted by clinicians/dairy clients
- Process samples, culture, incubate and interpret results from milk samples and other samples submitted for evaluation.
- Assist with evaluation and need for additional testing and protocols based on results and the need to know additional information
- Perform microscopic examination of stained films or wet preparations, biochemical and serological identification of mastitis-causing organisms. Prepare specialized media and tests.
- Responsible for maintaining lab stocks may assist in ordering supplies and materials as needed.
- Assist with administrative duties as needed and occasionally field duties.
- Participate and assist in the implementation of various QMPS Programs including the QMPS Laboratory Proficiency Program, QMPS Digital Culture Program, On-farm and Clinic Culture Education, Bulk Tank Monitoring Program, Protocol Development, and QMPS Program marketing.
Employees working in the laboratory must receive the pre-exposure rabies prophylaxis vaccination series prior to or immediately after hire, which will be paid for by the department.
Required Qualifications
- Associate degree in science related field and up to 2 years relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Strong educational and training background in Microbiology and laboratory procedures, as well as lab safety.
- Knowledge of a variety of computer programs along with software for laboratory diagnostic tests.
- Ability to keep detailed and accurate records for quality control purposes and to prioritize and perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Ability to use independent judgment, reasoning, and analytical thought.
- Willing to work independently as well as in a team environment.
- Must receive and maintain certification from NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets Division of Milk Control to perform official milk tests (bacteria, somatic cell, etc.)
Preferred Qualifications
- More than 2 years of experience in a hospital or diagnostic clinic or laboratory.
- Knowledge of quality control testing is desired.
- Experience working under ISO accreditation standards or GLP preferred.
- Knowledge of dairy farm management and the dairy industry is preferred.
- Familiarity with veterinary medicine.
- Experience using LIMS desired.
- Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.
- Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Important Details about the Position
- This is an onsite position located in Canton, NY.
- This is a full-time three-year term position with potential for extension contingent upon funding and performance.
- We are unable to provide Visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for this position.
- Relocation assistance will not be provided for this position.
This position is 39 hours per week. While normal business hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, specific schedules may change to meet the needs of the business, requiring employees to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, University holidays and scheduled breaks.
The Following Documents are Required to be Submitted with your Application:
Resume
Cover Letter
What We Offer:
Great benefits! Cornell receives national recognition, as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, sustainability, and diversity initiatives.
- 3 weeks of paid vacation
- 13 additional holiday days with generous holiday pay if you work on those days
- An award-winning employer provided benefits program
- Comprehensive health care options
- Access to wellness programs
- Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
- Generous retirement contributions
- Impressive educational benefits include tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program, Tuition Aid for external education, and Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance program
- Follow this link for more information: https://hr.cornell.edu/summaries-benefits
Employees are expected to meet all of the Cornell University Staff Skills for Success, which are essential for individual and organizational success.
Who We Are:
The mission of the Animal Health Diagnostic Center (AHDC) is to improve the health of food and fiber producing animals, companion animals, sport and recreational animals, exotic animals, and wildlife. These activities protect and improve public health, promote environmental stewardship, and foster economic growth.
Quality Milk Production Services (QMPS) Program serves the dairy industry of New York State by promoting the production of high-quality milk through the control and prevention of mastitis, prudent use of antimicrobials, and implementation of good farming practices. QMPS meets the need of the dairy industry through an integrated program of Field Services, Laboratory Services, Educational Programs and Research.