LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II8341C3 Pay Grade: 21 DEFINITION OF WORK Summary This is technical laboratory work performing standard analytical and diagnostic tests or preparatory procedures for more complex tests in a clinical, public health, pathology, bacteriology, chemical, research, environmental, agricultural or other specialized laboratory facility. Standard Classification Factors Supervision Received - LEVEL B: "Under general supervision…" Employees working under general supervision usually receive some instructions with respect to the details of most assignments but are free to develop their own work sequences within established procedures, methods and policies. They are often physically removed from their supervisor and subject to only periodic checks. Difficulty - LEVEL B: Average… Where the employee is confronted with a variety of duties susceptible to different methods of solution which, in turn, places a correspondingly higher demand upon resourcefulness and concentration. Positions which require the analysis and evaluation of raw data and the rendering of conclusions would, in many instances, fall into this category. Complexity - LEVEL B: Work is of a structured nature including duties that have several related steps. This level involves simple analysis of data, identification of easily distinguishable facts and recognition of differences in related situations. Workers at this level exercise limited independent judgment in determining methods or procedures to be used in making minor decisions. Work is normally controlled by frequent review and consultation with supervisors. When guidelines exist at this level, they are usually specific and aid in determining an approach to problems or situations. Workers at this level must be able to identify basic differences in situations to determine the actions which need to be taken. Consequence of Actions or Decisions - LEVEL B: Consequences of actions or decisions at this level are minor as the work is normally reviewed regularly and errors are usually detected in following operations. Errors may be disruptive to co-workers or may cause minor inefficiency. Costs due to errors are minimal. Contacts - LEVEL B: The purpose of the contact is to plan, coordinate and advise on work efforts, interpret guidelines or instructions, elicit opinions or give guidance on the basis of facts to resolve common issues or problems when the information is not sensitive in nature or the individuals or groups are working toward mutual goals and have basically cooperative attitudes. Well developed communication skills are required. Physical Demands - LEVEL B: The work requires light physical exertion. The employee may be required to perform handling activities with lightweight or easily moved items (e.g. books, file folders, boxes of office supplies, small machine parts, etc.); perform moving activities for brief periods; operate light equipment; perform repetitive motions for brief periods; confined to a work area. Environmental Conditions - LEVEL B: The work environment involves moderate hazards, risks or discomforts. Exposure to minor deviations from pleasant environmental conditions is normal. Minor to serious injuries are possible. Supervision/Leadership - LEVEL B: Involves functional leadership responsibility. As a "senior worker", performing essentially the same or similar work as those overseen, responsibility includes training, instructing, scheduling and reviewing. As a "project leader" may be responsible for a phase(s) of a single project which includes planning, coordinating and reviewing the work of others. This level may also involve limited administrative responsibility such as participating in the evaluation of work performance. Distinguishing Features Differs from the Laboratory Technician III class which performs more complex laboratory technical procedures, determines final results of tests and may have supervisory responsibilities. EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED Prepares samples, such as microbiological specimens, reagents, plant, animal or human tissue, grains, acids, pesticides, herbicides, blood, physical crime evidence, and other organic and inorganic substances, for various laboratory tests; and assists higher level technician or professional staff in performing more complex procedures in various fields, such as bacteriology, biology, microbiology, serology, chemistry, biochemistry, botany, and virology. Embalms and prepares specimens, such as bovine, equine and carnivore species, for laboratory tests; properly stores specimens for further use. Receives samples to be tested; verifies quality of prepared specimens, reagents or samples; prepares media, reagents and stains to be used in testing; determines is specimen should be selected for further study. Performs prescribed tests on prepared specimens, samples or reagents, such as gravimetric procedures, microbiological analysis, chemical analysis, electrocardiograph and basal metabolism rate tests; completes elementary data manipulations; keeps records of results and other quality control procedures. Provides basic care to animals in an experimental laboratory; administers drugs and microbiological specimens to laboratory animals. Determines specified components of grain fertilizer, feed, seed, soil, and other materials by prescribed methods, such as protein content of grain by the Kjeldahl method. Performs venipuncture duties; obtains red blood cell counts, platelet counts, differential white blood cell counts and blood types. Logs test results and other relevant laboratory data through the use of personal computer application software and other record-keeping procedures. Serves as a lead worker for other technicians by instructing, demonstrating, assigning and reviewing standard laboratory procedures to ensure quality of initial preparation procedures for samples, specimens, and solutions. Monitors laboratory supplies and equipment, determines the type and quantity required, and completes the necessary purchase requisitions. Operates various types of laboratory equipment such as an analytical balance, anesthetic apparatus, autoclave, centrifuge, electrocardiograph, fluorometer, grinders, incubators, microscope, moisture meter, NIR analyzer, pH meter, spectrograph, and sterilizers. Cleans archeological artifacts and applys appropriate codes; prepares written catalog and description for scientific value. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS Knowledge *Knowledge of basic principles, practices, and procedures of laboratory testing. *Knowledge of laboratory equipment, procedures, operation and terminology. *Knowledge of safe laboratory practices. Abilities *Ability to interpret subject matter, and specialized laboratory procedures of the particular laboratory concerned. *Ability to perform mathematical computations. *Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records. *Ability to use and maintain laboratory equipment. Ability to lead subordinate workers and maintain satisfactory working relationships. *Necessary at Entry MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: High school diploma or equivalent. NC: 06/93 |