Microbiologist II (Molecular Characterization Unit)

---

Job description

SUMMARY

The California Department of Public Health's 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 Molecular Characterization Unit, within the Immunodiagnostics & Molecular Characterization Section, the Microbiologist II performs duties associated with receipt, processing, culture, and whole genome sequencing of bacterial isolates. The position is Monday-Friday, 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday, and overtime coverage may be required during a public health emergency.

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).


• Cultivate bacterial pathogens and quality control strains.


• Develop and optimize protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for comprehensive whole genome sequencing using various sequencing platforms, including but not limited to the Illumina, Nanopore and PacBio platforms.


• Perform DNA extraction, library preparation, and sequencing of bacterial pathogens using various sequencing platform.


• Analyze genomic sequences using validated pipelines and software.


• Participate in proficiency testing and implement MDL, Section, and Unit QC/QA policies for laboratory operations including biosafety, chemical hygiene, and other applicable standards.


• Comply with Quality Management system established in the laboratory.


• Reviews test results for completeness and accuracy.


• Maintains inventory of essential chemicals, reagents, and disposables.


• Preparation of reports for test result and other technical reports related to 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 measurementsusing laboratory instrumentation and equipment.


• Knowledge of standard biosafety precautions for working with potential infectious material, sterile technique, and molecular methods (PCR; sequencing).


• Experience performing molecular biology techniques, such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), sequencing, and DNA extraction is preferred, but not required


• Minimum of one year of experience handling infectious agents in a microbiology laboratory setting.

Education/Experience

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

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 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)

<!– job description page –>