DNA Fragment Visualization Technician (LAB AST 2)

Under general supervision, serve in the Gel Analysis section of the Veterinary Genetics Lab, operating various molecular biology instruments to visualize genetic data generated by other sections of the service pipeline. There is no animal handling involved in this position. After training, manage data generation workflow across multiple platforms to ensure data are ready for the gel reader group. Trouble-shoot issues with the various visualization instruments as needed. This position may require working alone for a portion of the shift.

Apply By Date: November 22****nd 2026 by 11:59PM. Candidates will be screened after the second week, and weekly thereafter. Role is subject to close before the listed apply by date.

Qualifications

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

• High School Diploma
• Experience in a high-throughput service laboratory and the ability to generate results quickly and accurately
• Skill to maintain focus while performing repetitive tasks (any line worker)
• Skill to communicate effectively with laboratory personnel, students, and scientists both in written and oral form. (able to understand directions)
• Skill to establish priorities and adapt to fluctuating workloads. (be flexible)
• Skill to perform detailed procedures quickly and to accurately follow detailed protocols under minimal supervision. (can read something and do it)
• Strict attention to detail and skill to operate precision electronic equipment, and computers quickly, safely and accurately. (have used machines to perform jobs)

Preferred Qualifications

• AA Degree
• Ability to detect abnormal DNA fragment analysis results and technical expertise to establish a proper course of evaluation.

Key Responsibilities

• 80% - Amplicon Loading
• 15% - Instrument Maintenance
• 5% - Reload Samples

Department Overview

Be part of an internationally recognized and accredited laboratory that provides expert DNA testing for various animal species. The Veterinary Genetics Laboratory provides animal parentage verification, identification, forensics services, genetic diagnostics, and genetic research for a broad range of domestic species as well as primates and wildlife species. We are looking for a representative to work in this non-profit laboratory that is part of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and strives to provide highly accurate DNA testing for animals while also promoting education and scientific advancement in animal genetics. **VGL is currently located on the Davis campus but will be relocating to AggieSquare on the UC Davis Sacramento campus ~ March 2027

Department Specific Job Scope

The Veterinary Genetics Laboratory supports animal genetic testing services through high-volume laboratory operations. This position performs DNA fragment visualization activities by preparing and loading samples, operating specialized laboratory instruments, monitoring workflows, maintaining equipment, documenting processes, and assisting with troubleshooting. The role works closely with other laboratory sections to support the timely and accurate delivery of genetic testing results while following established laboratory procedures and quality standards.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $27.10/hr. - $32.65/hr.
• Salary Frequency: Bi-weekly
• Salary Grade: STEPS
• UC Job Title: LAB AST 2
• UC Job Code: 009603
• Appointment Type: Staff: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100%
• Shift (Work Schedule): Monday-Friday, (7:00am-4:00pm)
• Location: Davis
• Union Representation: TX-Technical Professionals
• 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 by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.

• High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
• UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
• Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
• Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
• Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
• Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
• Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
• On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
• Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
• Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees

Physical Demands

• Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 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 - Continuous 6 to 8+ 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 - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ 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 - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 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.

Work (7:00 am-4:00 pm) Lift/maneuver up to 40 lbs. of laboratory supplies and equipment. Work in a secured animal facility (Armstrong Tract). This position will relocate to Aggie Square in Sacramento, CA, March 2027 Share workspace with constant interruptions and changing noise levels. Must conform to federal, state and county regulation for safe handling of biological materials. Requires adaptability to fluctuating workloads based on business needs including working off hours work shifts. Vacations must be scheduled with maintaining continuity of data generation.

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