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- Tasks: Conduct lab tests on donkey samples and support veterinary teams with findings.
- Company: Join The Donkey Sanctuary, a leading animal welfare organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 31 days holiday, and health perks.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of donkeys while gaining valuable lab experience.
- Qualifications: Degree in biological or animal science and lab experience required.
- Other info: Flexible part-time role in a beautiful location with growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 15000 - 19000 £ per year.
The Donkey Sanctuary is an international animal welfare organisation, offering care and protection to donkeys worldwide. Our vision is a world where every donkey has a good quality of life, and our mission is to improve the lives of donkeys every day.
We now have an excellent opportunity for an organised and professional team player to join our Research and Operational Support team as Laboratory Technician. Under the direction of the Laboratory Manager, you will provide in-house clinical and pathological laboratory services, interpret results and communicate relevant findings to the clinical veterinary teams and other relevant teams or personnel.
About You
- Previous biological laboratory experience.
- Knowledge and practical experience of laboratory principles.
- Educated to degree level (or equivalent) in a biological or animal science.
- Competent IT Skills.
- Knowledge of equine parasitology and experience in using PCR (desirable).
- Self-motivated with a flexible attitude.
- Committed to making a difference for donkeys and the people that rely on them.
About The Role
Your principal duties and responsibilities will include:
- Carrying out routine haematology, biochemistry and endocrinology on blood samples submitted by our veterinary teams and promptly highlighting abnormal results.
- Carrying out routine faecal parasitology on faecal samples submitted to the laboratory for intestinal parasites, liver fluke and lungworm.
- Monitoring the worm burden of charity donkeys by regular testing of a representative sample as determined by the Research Department.
- Processing blood and faecal samples from rehomed donkeys, private donkeys, holding bases and Ireland as part of an advisory service.
- Performing PCR tests on a variety of bodily fluid and tissue samples submitted for donkeys and mules with suspected infections and reporting the results to the case Veterinary Surgeon.
- Providing laboratory-based support to research and veterinary team projects.
- Supporting the Laboratory Manager in the training of new staff and the teaching of students and visitors.
What We Offer In Return
Based at our fully equipped veterinary hospital at Brookfield Farm, near Honiton, East Devon – this is a part-time, fixed term role starting as soon as possible until 1 January 2027, working 22.5 hours per week, ideally 3 full days, 08.00-16.30 Monday-Friday. Flexibility will be required for occasional weekend working.
Benefits
- Competitive pension.
- Life assurance.
- 31 days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 with each full year of service.
- Wellbeing team.
- Recorded Pilates classes.
- Long service awards.
- Healthshield Plan – Reimbursement of some medical expenses up to the specified limits per membership.
- Offers, discounts and cashback on shopping, travel and entertainment from participating outlets.
- Access to a 24/7 GP and counselling service.
- Free Parking.
- Subsidised restaurant and shop on main site.
Closing date for completed applications: Monday 6 April 2026.
The Donkey Sanctuary is a Disability Confident Employer. The Donkey Sanctuary is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults), and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment.
Laboratory Technician employer: The Donkey Sanctuary
Contact Detail:
The Donkey Sanctuary Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the animal welfare and laboratory fields. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching The Donkey Sanctuary and its mission. Understand their work with donkeys and think about how your skills as a Laboratory Technician can contribute. Tailor your answers to show you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for their values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on common questions for laboratory roles and be ready to discuss your experience with PCR and equine parasitology. Confidence is key when you step into that interview room!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at The Donkey Sanctuary. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for animal welfare and how it aligns with our mission.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Mention your biological laboratory experience and any specific knowledge of equine parasitology or PCR that you have – it’ll make you stand out!
Show Your Commitment: We’re looking for someone who’s genuinely committed to making a difference for donkeys. Use your application to express why this role matters to you and how you can contribute to our vision.
Check Your Details: Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is super important in a lab setting. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Donkey Sanctuary
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your biological laboratory principles and equine parasitology. Be ready to discuss your previous lab experience and how it relates to the role. The more you can demonstrate your knowledge, the more confident you'll appear!
✨Show Your Passion for Animal Welfare
The Donkey Sanctuary is all about improving the lives of donkeys. Share your personal connection to animal welfare and why this mission resonates with you. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about specific lab techniques, like PCR testing or interpreting blood results. Think of examples from your past work where you've successfully handled similar tasks. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready about the team dynamics or ongoing projects at the sanctuary. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers!