Microbiologist II (Quality, Safety & Support Unit)

SUMMARY

The California Department of Public Healths Microbial Diseases Laboratory Program is responsible for diagnostic and surveillance testing applied research projects and education and training for the identification and characterization of bacterial mycobacterial fungal and parasitic pathogens of public health importance.

Under the direction of the Supervisor of the Quality Safety & Support Unit within the Microbial Diseases Laboratory (MDL) Branch the Microbiologist II performs duties associated with method validation and routine testing of microbial pathogens using advanced molecular detection (AMD) methods primarily including methods utilizing next generation sequencing (NGS). This position will provide programmatic support for a variety of priority AMD validation projects and assists with surge testing for AMD methods across MDL laboratories as qualified and assigned.

The position is Monday-Friday 40 hours per week; weekend holiday and overtime coverage may be required during a public health emergency.

The salary range is $36.53 - $49.15 per hour depending on experience and qualifications

If hired for this position you will be required to provide proof that you are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to your start date or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying you for an exemption (that may or may not require an accommodation).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Specimen receipt and data entry into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Cultivates bacterial or fungal pathogens and quality control strains.
• Develops and optimizes standard operating procedures (SOPs) for next generation sequencing using various sequencing platforms including but not limited to the Illumina and Nanopore platforms.
• Performs DNA extraction library preparation and sequencing of microbial pathogens using various sequencing platforms.
• Implement protocols and workflows on liquid handlers as needed
• Analyzes genomic sequences using validated pipelines and software.
• Participates in proficiency testing and adheres to Branch QC/QA policies for laboratory operations including biosafety chemical hygiene and other applicable standards.
• Complies with MDLs Quality Management system including complete timely and accurate recording of results and quality documentation.
• Reviews test results for completeness and accuracy.
• Maintains inventory of essential chemicals reagents and disposables.

• Prepares technical reports and compiles data related to applicable grants and projects.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external partners.
• Assists with planning for educational events and in training of public health microbiologist trainees and other partners
• Provides technical consultation to laboratory staff and other local state and federal partners
• Attends to training and informational meetings/webinars/conference.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to perform micromanipulations such as pipetting small volumes and other fine measurements using laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• Knowledge of standard biosafety precautions for working with potential infectious material sterile technique and molecular methods (PCR; sequencing).

Education/Experience

• Possession of a Bachelors degree in microbiology or related biological science from an accredited university.
• Minimum of two years of experience handling infectious agents in a microbiology laboratory setting; preferably in a clinical or public health laboratory settings performing high complexity testing.
• At least one year of experience performing next generation sequencing methods is preferred.

Certificates/Licenses

• CA Public Health Microbiologist Certification is desired but not required.

Other Skills Knowledge and Abilities

• Computer skills (Microsoft Word Access Excel email).
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings.
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand Frequently
• Walk Frequently
• Sit Frequently
• Handling / Fingering Frequently
• Reach Outward Occasionally
• Reach Above Shoulder Occasionally
• Climb Crawl Kneel Bend Occasionally
• Lift / Carry Occasionally - Up to 30 lbs
• Push/Pull Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs
• See Constantly
• Taste/ Smell Not Applicable

KEY

• Not Applicable Not required for essential functions
• Occasionally (0 - 2 hrs/day)
• Frequently (2 - 5 hrs/day)
• Constantly (5 hrs/day)

WORK ENVIRONMENT

General office and laboratory setting indoors temperature controlled

May work periodically in a Biological Safety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory environment

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to age (40 and over) national origin or ancestry race color religion sex gender sexual orientation pregnancy or perceived pregnancy reproductive health decision making physical or mental disability medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer) AIDS or HIV genetic information or characteristics veteran status or military service.