Laboratory Technologist

About the role

The Laboratory Technologist delivers routine and specialized diagnostic testing for the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi (SWAD) laboratory, covering haematology, biochemistry, microbiology, parasitology, body fluid analysis and water quality. Working under the Senior Laboratory Manager and with technical direction from the Veterinary Pathologist / Director of Laboratory Services, the post holder owns one or more laboratory disciplines and supports the full animal population and the YSWRR marine rescue and rehabilitation programme.

Key responsibilities

• Receive, inspect, label, accession and barcode samples, prepare smears and aliquots, and archive samples for repeat testing and research.
• Operate, calibrate and maintain automated analyzers and point-of-care systems, perform routine tests, dilutions, reruns and manual verification, and support validation of new assays and devices.
• Validate results against reference standards, investigate anomalies, enter results into the database and report them to clinical and animal care teams within turnaround times.
• Run standards, blanks, duplicates and controls, report quality issues and escalations, and draft and revise SOPs, work instructions and risk assessments.
• Maintain equipment, reagents, calibrators, controls and cleaning solutions, and monitor fridge, freezer and incubator temperatures and biosafety cabinet conditions.
• Ensure biosafety (BSL-2) and chemical safety, dispose of waste safely, and support audits, corrective actions and training of colleagues, interns and students.
• Support the diagnostic care of rescued wildlife, prepare reports and attend weekly laboratory meetings; work varying shifts including weekends, public holidays and on-call cover.

Required profile

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology, Biomedical or Veterinary Laboratory Science, Biology or a related discipline, or equivalent.
• Formal training in biosafety, quality management or laboratory diagnostics.
• At least 2 years of proven post-laboratory experience in a recognized laboratory or veterinary setting, with hands-on diagnostic experience across more than one discipline.
• Excellent written and verbal English, strong attention to detail, and ability to follow SOPs and structured workflows.

Required skills

• Operating and maintaining automated analyzers and performing manual diagnostic techniques.
• Proficiency with laboratory information systems and Microsoft Office; competent numeracy for dilutions, calculations and QC statistics.
• Desirable: UAE veterinary/medical laboratory technologist licensure, membership of a professional body, and experience in a veterinary, zoological, wildlife or aquatic animal health setting.