Sample Reception Technician

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University of Guelph is seeking a temporary full-time Sample Reception Technician for the on-site lab in Guelph, 35 hours weekly, Tuesday through Saturday, 08/07/2026 to 09/01/2027, USW Local 4120. This frontline role receives and routes samples, enters data in the LIMS, verifies submissions, maintains sample integrity, and supports staff while complying with ISO 17025, GLP and client requirements. Requirements: one-year Diploma in Laboratory Technician plus one year related experience or equivalent; strong lab terminology, QA and safety knowledge; excellent communication, multitasking, and the ability to lift up to 60 lbs; rabies vaccination may be required. Tips: tailor to emphasize LIMS, sample handling, client service, confidentiality and reliability; apply early and use internal applications if eligible.

Department: LSD AFL Sample Reception
Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120

Temporary full-time from 08/07/2026 to 09/01/2027 
Temporary Absence of the Regular Incumbent

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant. 
Career Opportunities (sapsf.com) 

General Purpose

The Sample Reception Section of the Agriculture and Food Laboratory is seeking a qualified individual to play a key role in supporting Laboratory Services Division’s values: Client Centered, Integrity, Individuals Matter, Shared Responsibility, and Committed to Evolving.

Duties and Responsibilities

Supporting a variety of specialized laboratories offering over 400 analytical services, the Sample Reception Technician is responsible for accurately receiving and distributing all incoming sample submissions. Duties include: handling and opening sample boxes, bags or coolers; sorting and storing samples and supplies; ensuring that all information and testing requirement relate to each specific submission is recorded accurately; receiving courier and client delivered samples; entering all samples, tests, and relevant client and sample information into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); verifying completeness and accuracy of submission information; ensuring appropriate storage of samples at time of receipt and prior to testing; provide guidance to laboratory technicians and students. As a primary, front-line client liaison in a high-volume environment, the incumbent will respond to in-person and telephone client inquiries, working to ISO 17025, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), legal and client-specific requirements.

Requirements: 

• One year Community College Laboratory Technician diploma plus one year related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• In-depth working knowledge of laboratory terminology, testing services, quality assurance protocols and, workplace health and safety practices
• Excellent understanding and awareness of sample handling and integrity requirements
• Strong background in client-centered service, combined with excellent communication and interpersonal skills to be able to work effectively in an environment with tight deadlines and high throughput of samples
• Excellent multi-tasking skills with proven experience working accurately and effectively in an environment with constant interruptions and competing demands
• Proven visual observation abilities, combined with exceptional listening and writing skills, to accurately capture and record critical sample and testing information from a variety of sources
• Physical dexterity and excellent organizational skills to efficiently receive, open, sort and enter sample information for a high volume of samples and supplies, under tight deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to maintain strict client confidentiality at all times
• Punctuality and dependability are essential qualities for this role, as Sample Reception is open for clients to drop off samples during designated hours.

Must be or willing to be rabies vaccinated. Must routinely lift or carry objects weighing between 5-60 lbs, and push carts carrying over 60 lbs of weight.

Hours of work are 35 hours per week, Tuesday-Saturday.

Employee Type: Regular 
Position Number: 10481055 
Classification: USW, Local 4120 Salary: Band 4  
USW Local 4120 Wage Grid

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 07/22/2026  
Closing Date: 07/29/2026