Job Title: Ovary Processing & Courier Contractor
Company: Vytelle
Reporting to: IVF Field Embryologist Manager
Direct Reports: None
Location: Kearney, NE
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience
Status: Contractor (Hourly)
ABOUT VYTELLE
We are a global precision livestock company transforming how cattle producers elevate herd performance. Through our integrated technology platform, we enable generational genetic gains in just a few years – helping producers sustainably deliver more protein with few inputs. At Vytelle, you’ll be part of a team making a measurable impact on the future of global food production.
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Oocyte Collection & Courier Technician is responsible for the end-to-end handling of bovine ovaries collected from a packing facility through final preparation for shipment. Responsibilities include ovary pickup at the packing plant, aspiration, oocyte searching and grading, and packaging of viable oocytes for shipment to a designated laboratory. As well as courier oocytes and embryos to and from collections sites on a as needed bases.
This contractor must demonstrate strong attention to detail, strict adherence to the Terminal Ovary Collection SOP, and consistent delivery of quality standards and project expectations.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Complete oocyte collection and searching training at the Vytelle lab in Kearney, Nebraska
- Pick up bovine ovaries from Gibbon Packing according to the agreed schedule
- Transport ovaries safely while maintaining proper handling and temperature requirements
- Aspirate ovaries in accordance with the Terminal Ovary Collection SOP
- Search, identify and isolate viable oocytes under a microscope with accuracy and consistency
- Maintain clean, organized and sterile work practices throughout all processing steps while delivering project standards and specifics across the entire day.
- Accurately count record and track recovered oocytes
- Prepare, package and label oocytes for shipment following established procedures
- Deliver prepared shipments to the designated shipping facility no later than 4:30 pm.
- Additional / As Needed Responsibilities
- Courier biological materials, supplies, or equipment to and from collection sites as requested
Role Model Behaviors - Engage, enable empower and act on:
Vytelle’s Core Values
Leadership: Inspire and serve and seek the best in each other
Endurance: Pacesetter, takes action and realizes results
Pioneer: Infinitely curious, catalyst and listens for ideas
Love: Contagious passion for customers and our purpose
Count on me: Take accountability, Depend on each other and Adaptable.
Ability to adopt and adhere to Vytelle’s Foundation: The Common Thread of Integrity, Respect and Trust
In addition to:
Teamwork: Establish and maintain positive working relationships with others, both internally and externally, to achieve the goals of the Company. Set goals, resolve problems, and make decisions that enhance the Company’s effectiveness.
SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
- Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive, precision-based work
- Ability to follow technical protocols and maintain consistent biological handling practices
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs safely
- Effective communication skills for coordination with lab teams
- Ability to learn and follow detailed procedures
- Strong problem-solving ability and decision-making under time-sensitive conditions
- Ability to work under pressure while maintaining quality standards
- High sense of urgency and accountability
- Quality-driven mindset with balanced critical thinking and positive approach
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with ovary aspiration, IVF, embryo/oocyte handling, or laboratory work preferred
- Microscope experience (searching and identifying oocytes or similar biological material) preferred
- Experience packaging and shipping biological samples preferred
- Prior courier or time-sensitive transport experience preferred
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs when required
- Ability to sit for extended periods
- Manual dexterity for pipetting and microscope work
- Exposure to outdoor weather conditions during transport and collection
WORK STRUCTURE
- Paid an hourly rate for hours worked
- Eligible for mileage reimbursement
- Schedule based on project and ovary availability
- Variability in start and end times depending on collection and shipment needs
- Contractor is responsible for maintaining agreed performance and quality standards
Skills Required
- Complete oocyte collection and searching training at Vytelle lab
- Follow Terminal Ovary Collection SOP and technical protocols
- Perform ovary aspiration and microscope-based oocyte searching/grading
- Maintain clean, organized, sterile work practices and accurate records
- Reliable, punctual, able to work independently and meet delivery deadlines
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs safely
- Manual dexterity for pipetting and microscope work; ability to sit for extended periods
- Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive, precision-based work
- Experience with ovary aspiration, IVF, embryo/oocyte handling, or laboratory work
- Microscope experience searching/identifying oocytes or similar biological material
- Experience packaging and shipping biological samples and prior courier/time-sensitive transport experience
What We Do
Vytelle is a precision livestock company reshaping how cattle producers worldwide optimize their herds. Through Vytelle’s integrated technology platform, generations of genetic gains can be made in just a few years. This allows producers to sustainably deliver more protein with fewer inputs, helping to ensure meat and milk are viable, competitive food choices for future generations.
