Biotechnology Technician (SRA 2 NEX)

THIS POSITION IS PERMANENTLY LOCATED IN TULARE, CA!

Under general supervision of the section faculty supervisor or lead technician, perform the daily functions of a high throughput diagnostic laboratory including performance of nucleic acid-based detection using real time PCR and Standard PCR technology, including processing samples for extraction of DNA and RNA from clinical samples and maintaining documentation records in accordance with standard operating procedures. Assist with evaluation of new equipment, reagents and supplies. Participate in validation studies to ensure system wide performance of assays. Ensure accurate and reproducible assay performance and reporting.

Apply By Date: August 27, 2025 at 11:59pm

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Animal Science, or closely related fields or equivalent combination of education and experience in a related field.
• Advanced, recent experience with molecular diagnostic testing methods and use of associated automated equipment (e.g. for PCR, electrophoresis, nucleic acid sequence analysis, DNA and RNA extraction and purification), in a diagnostic laboratory.
• Experience on complex quality control and quality assurance methods in a diagnostic laboratory including maintenance of accurate inventory and quality control records for biological media and preparing nucleic acids or associated reagents to meet strict quality control standards.
• Flexibility to quickly adapt to changing technology, schedules, work environment, excellent communications skill, and skills to work with multiple disciplines in a diagnostic lab.
• Knowledge and skills to implement, critically evaluate performance, quality control and resolve technical problems related to molecular diagnostic and ELISA methods.
• Knowledge and skills to use methods of containment, decontamination and disposal of infectious and biohazardous materials.
• Knowledge and skills to comprehend and follow detailed technical protocols, published procedures and methods and equipment operations manuals and maintain neat and accurate laboratory records and logbooks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a molecular oriented, technical position in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory with large sample numbers and high throughput testing.
• Experience developing and implementing Quality Assurance programs in a diagnostic environment.
• Knowledge and experience to instruct, technically train, and provide consultation to technical and professional personnel.
• Knowledge in the field of veterinary infectious diseases.

Key Responsibilities

• 65% - Diagnostic Testing
• 20% - Lab Management
• 10% - Quality Mangement
• 5% - Development

Department Overview

CAHFS provides California's livestock and poultry industries, and veterinary practitioners who serve them, with a full range of diagnostic laboratory services for disease control, enhancement of health management, and protection from diseases common to animal and humans. In meeting this need, the CAHFS also serves as the backbone of California's disease warning system through its animal disease surveillance program. The system consists of four laboratories currently located in Davis, Turlock, Tulare and San Bernardino. Funding for this program is provided through a contract with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and through revenue generated from user fees. An additional program, the Equine Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, is funded through a contract with the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) and horse wagering monies and provides full-service drug testing and a pharmacology research and development program.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $28.88 - $46.46/hour (Department budgeted salary range: $28.88 - $32.51/hr. Commensurate with experience.)
• Salary Frequency: Bi-Weekly
• Salary Grade: 108
• UC Job Title: SRA 2 NEX
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100%
• Shift (Work Schedule): Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 5:00pm
• Location: Tulare, CA
• Union Representation: Yes - RX
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

* High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
* UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
* Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
* Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
* WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
* On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
* Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
* Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
* Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

• Standing - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Walking - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Loud noise levels - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Numerical skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours

Work Environment

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.

THIS POSITION IS PERMANENTLY LOCATED IN TULARE, CA! Due to the nature of the essential responsibilities, this position is not eligible for remote work. Due to the potential work with poultry diseases, ownership and handling of birds is not allowed. Electronic devices, such as cell phone, iPod, etc., usage will be restricted inside the lab. This position is subject to UCD's vaccination program (Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, is/might subject to prophylactic vaccination for rabies), and Medical/Health Surveillance Program/Procedures/Review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 5:00pm (Work schedule might be slightly different during the training period) Work flexible schedule/overtime as needed to complete projects and meet deadlines. Mandatory weekend and holiday rotation. Restricted/Limited vacation during peak workload periods (i.e. Outbreaks, Fiscal Close, Audits Periods, etc.) This is not a research position. The position is located in a diagnostic laboratory where quality control and assurance as well as meticulous working habits are essential. Per the terms and agreements of the department's contracts and grants, the position requires signing of a Confidentiality Agreement or Non-Disclosure Agreement regarding testing and client information. Ability to complete Select Agent background clearance procedures. Upon completion of a background check and appropriate training, must participate in the select agent program. Perform high consequence assays within a restricted access Biosafety Level 3 laboratory that sometimes mandates after hours or weekend work.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

• This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.

As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks