Laboratory Assistant 2 (Morgue Attendant)

About Us

The Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture (NSDA) manages the Animal Health Laboratory that analyzes a range of animal (herd/ flock) health diagnoses. Services are aimed primarily at agricultural producers and industry, but are also available to private companies, other government agencies, researchers and the public.

About Our Opportunity

Working with a team of Medical Laboratory Technologists and Veterinary Pathologists within the Department of Agriculture, you will be responsible for preparing agricultural samples for analysis while working within an ISO accredited quality management system. You will perform laboratory functions that support the work of the Medical Lab Technologists and Veterinary Pathologists which includes preparing a large variety of samples for analysis, preparation of solutions, agars and media to support test procedures. As the Laboratory Assistant, you will be responsible for following Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) as well as cleaning the laboratory area and equipment.

The Laboratory Assistant works in a team environment with Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLT's) and Veterinary Pathologists to ensure high laboratory standards are achieved each day.

Primary Accountabilities

In this role, you an expect to:

• Prepare a variety of agricultural samples for analysis using established, documented procedures while working within an ISO accredited quality management system. The nature of the work carried out by Laboratory Services serves aspects of animal health, public health, food safety and assists in the support of the agriculture economy.
• Follow and promote Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) at all times, while maintaining a clean and safe laboratory environment.
• Perform regular monitoring of laboratory equipment and environment.
• Perform basic lab testing functions.
• Maintain storage areas and inventory control for completed samples within with laboratory.
• Assist in inventory control for laboratory supplies throughout Analytical Laboratory.
• Assist, as needed, in other areas including front office and post mortem.

Qualifications and Experience

To be successful within this position you will have completed High School and have 2 years laboratory experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

As the successful candidate, you must be familiar with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), Workplace Hazardous Material Information Systems (WHIMIS) and Occupational Health and Safety regulations. You will have a working knowledge of basic computer applications as well as the ability to prioritize and organize your workload. This position will also require you to be a team player with strong communication skills and excellent attention to detail.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

This is an excellent career opportunity for many, and we do consider an equivalent combination of training, education, and experience. Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Additional Information

This is a Term/Temporary/Casual employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of October 31, 2025. The appointment status ('term', 'temporary' or 'casual') is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.


Must be able to work in a laboratory environment that requires standing for long periods of time, lifting (<15kg) and repetitive work. Must be able to work in a working environment that may have sharp tools and equipment, dust, noise, moisture, chemicals, odor and vibrations.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• countless career paths.
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.