Microbiologist I (VRDL)

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Job description

The Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) seeks Microbiologist I candidate to immediately begin work to respond to the current COVID-19 pandemic. The successful candidate will perform important laboratory testing to detect and identify the virus that causes COVID-19. Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree in a biological science AND must either be a certified Public Health Microbiologist or have microbiological laboratory experience. The incumbent should be experienced in working with microorganisms (specifically viruses), standard precautions, and be familiar with PCR. Maintaining an organized, neat, and clean work environment, working well in a team environment, and being organized and detail-oriented are essential. The position is in Richmond, CA.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs, interprets and reports complex diagnostic and reference testing for virus and host immune response by direct viral detection, including specialized cell culture procedures, fluorescent labeled antibody assays, neutralization, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), sequencing, enzymatic based assays and general virus identification methods according to SOPs.


• Reports laboratory test results using StarLIMS


• Ensures adherence to Quality Assurance protocols and standards


• Maintains laboratory records of specimens, virus stocks, and reagents.


• Performs other related duties as assigned

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge and experience with laboratory work environments (BSL-2 minimum), sterile technique, and molecular (PCR; sequencing) techniques are required.


• Experience with standard precautions for working with potentially infectious clinical specimens, particularly working in class II BSC.

• Ability to perform micromanipulations such as pipetting small volumes and other fine measurementsusing laboratory instrumentation and equipment


• Demonstrated attention to detail.

Education/Experience

• Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university with course work in chemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology

Certificates/Licenses

• Possession of a Public Health Microbiologist certificate preferred, or eligibility for the Public Health Microbiologist training program

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

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)