Laboratory Technician

About the role

Key responsibilities include:

• Set up the laboratory processing unit in the field in accordance with the Study Protocol.
• Process human specimens safely, carefully adhering to guidelines.
• Perform on-site analyses on human samples in a timely manner.
• Handle samples obtained in various study sites with maximum care and deliver to the main study site and pathology service providers as required.
• Perform relevant administrative and laboratory duties both in the field and at SAHMRI.
• Maintain high levels of confidentiality in accordance with the privacy act and government regulations.
• Contribute to and participate in Wardliparingga Theme initiatives, including special projects to continuously improve processes, tools, systems and organisation.
• Ensure research activities and other outputs are compliant and aligned with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and working to the principles of the South Australian Aboriginal Health Research Accord.
• Support the mentorship, training, professional development and/or supervision of trainees, undergraduate, post graduate research students, as applicable.

About You

The successful candidate will possess the following key attributes:

• A relevant degree in a life sciences or health disciplines.
• Training in clinical haematology, phlebotomy or relevant field is desirable.
• Previous experience working as laboratory technician in a research or clinical environment.
• Experience working in rural and remote locations and/or working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities is highly desirable.
• Maintaining laboratory records in a timely, accurate, legible and orderly manner.
• Experience working with human specimens, including blood and blood products.
• Ability to work independently, accept responsibility and quickly adapt to changing priorities.
• Attention to detail and evidence of ability to adhere strictly to protocol and working guidelines.
• Acquiring and maintaining competence in relevant laboratory techniques and methodologies, and willingness to engage in training programs where required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Understanding of ethical conduct in human research.
• Knowledge of confidentiality and privacy laws and guidelines relevant to health and medical research.
• Proficient with the use of computers and data handling applications/software.

Special Requirements

• The incumbent will be required to work beyond regular hours on occasion to meet deadlines.
• Extensive travel and time away from home will be essential, including travel to regional study sites in South Australia.
• Some sample processing and handling will be performed in laboratories located at SAHMRI North Terrace
• DCSI Working with Children Check, National Police clearance and Vulnerable Person Employment Screening will be required.
• SAHMRI is required to implement the Addressing vaccine preventable disease: Occupational assessment, screening and vaccination policy for SAHMRI employees carrying out work in any SA Health Facility.
• Immunisation Risk for this position is - Category A (direct contact with blood or body substances)

Everything we do is underpinned by our core values and our institute is dedicated to grow a culture that pursues, enables and demands research excellence. We are proud of the work we do and work hard as a team to make a positive difference to the community.  Our values of excellence, innovation, courage, integrity and teamwork are what help us achieve our goals. If these are also your values and goals, apply today.

As a not-for-profit organisation, SAHMRI employees can access salary packaging options up to $15,900. Salary packaging lets you pay for things like the everyday costs of living with money from your salary before tax. This reduces your taxable income, meaning you could pay less tax and take home more of what you earn. For more information on salary packaging please see the Maxxia website.

For a copy of the position description, please click here.

For more information, please contact Natasha Howard at Natasha.Howard@sahmri.com

Applications close: Monday 13^th January 2025

Applications may close earlier than advertised if a suitable candidate is found prior to the close date.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply

SAHMRI is a member of the Athena SWAN Science in Australia Gender Equity program. We have been awarded Bronze status for our commitment to advancing the careers of women, trans and gender diverse individuals in STEMM.