Laboratory Vet Technologist at RCL Foods

Job Description    
RCL FOODS is seeking a Laboratory Vet Technologist to join our Consumer Agriculture Division. The role will be based in Worcester and report to the Laboratory Manager. RCL FOODS is looking for a confident decisive and innovative individual who is a natural leader. RCL FOODS entrusts the Laboratory Technologist to make all operational decisions that fall within the ambit of responsibility and the department. Our Technologist must be able to immediately solve all departmental operational and equipment problems within the ambit of responsibility. The Laboratory Technologists' purpose is to: Isolate and identify poultry viruses. Evaluate killed antigen prior to the production of vaccines. Evaluate raw material for tissue cultures. Perform microbiological evaluations of samples received from the processing plants to assist in the quality control of all procedures and all production units to ensure that they are free from Salmonella spp., Aspergillus spp. And other microbial contaminants.

Minimum Requirements:

• Diploma in Biotechnology or BSc in Microbiology
• Minimum of 2 years experience in an ISO17025 accredited Laboratory
• SAVC Registered

Skills & Knowledge:

• Principles, practices, and theory of biological analysis, including emerging technologies
• Complex testing and analysis Supervisory principles and practices
• Applicable quality and environmental legislation and regulations Principles and practices of applied research
• Health/safety/OHSA/ISO practices and regulations applicable to a laboratory Laboratory information management and reporting systems
• Sample isolation and identification
• Report writing The operation, maintenance and manipulation of complex laboratory equipment

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Departmental Operations Plan, organise and control the activities in the department (Virology/Serology/ Bacteriology) using prescribed procedures.
• Manage the microbial evaluation in the department using prescribed procedures.
• Maintain and record the stock of reference bacteria and viruses used in the process.
• Prepare and record the production of bacterial and viral antigens for incorporation into the final vaccines.
• Inform the Biotechnologist immediately of any non-conformances.
• Ensure that all incoming samples are correctly identified and processed in accordance with prescribed procedures from the Laboratory Procedures Manual.
• Perform and record serum neutralization tests for IB serotypes.
• Ensure that examination of all samples commences in accordance with LPM/SAMP/6.0. (sample receipt and handling). Inform the laboratory manager immediately of any exceptional test result that may require action. Ensure that all media has passed a quality assurance test and that the related records are maintained at all times.
• Ensure that all media produced to support the growth of bacterial/viral isolates is quality controlled and recorded in the relevant file.
• Inform the Quality Supervisor of consumable stock levels when needed.
• Ensure that the laboratory is clean and tidy at all times.
• Information and Data Management,
• Analysis and Reporting Ensure that records of work are accurately written on the relevant worksheets.
• Ensure that accurate written records of work in progress and a database with records are maintained in order to provide information when required.
• Compile reports on the day results are obtained.
• Prepare interim reports when certain results are delayed and follow up with final reports as soon as results are available.
• Equipment Maintenance Ensure that specific equipment is checked for accuracy/calibration in accordance with the SOP.
• Ensure that equipment is tested for functionality and reliability on a regular basis.
• Ensure that the equipment maintenance schedule is adhered to.

Closing Date: 22nd, April 2022