Micro-Biologist

About the role

The Indiana Department of Health's mission is to promote, protect, and improve the health and safety of all Hoosiers. This role involves conducting laboratory tests for Mycobacteria tuberculosis and other medically relevant Mycobacteria species from clinical specimens.

Responsibilities

• Conduct procedures of clinical specimens and/or reference samples/food samples/environmental samples for serological analysis or isolation and identification of micro-organisms or their antigens/nucleic acids.
• Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results and reports findings to the submitter.
• Evaluate quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, and equipment.
• Coordinate the preparation of media, reagents, stains, supplies and other materials used in the transport, examination, and analysis process.
• Prepare epidemiological and statistical reports from data compiled on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis.
• Develop, prepare and update procedural manuals on methods, instrumentation, and quality assurance.
• Participate in training programs as a planner or instructor at workshops and conferences for private and public laboratory personnel.
• Initiate special research projects designed to test and improve microbiological methods and procedures.
• Participate in testing evaluation of new products used in clinical/reference laboratory work.
• Work with local laboratories and other health department staff to ensure their use of adequate materials, techniques, methods, and procedures.
• May appear at legal proceedings as an expert witness.

Requirements

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, theories and practices of microbiology and related sub-specialties.
• Ability to meet requirements for personnel certification as a general supervisor pursuant to the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988.
• Bachelor’s degree in a biological, chemical, or physical science, with at least 2 years of relevant testing experience. For roles performing CLIA-regulated high-complexity testing, the degree must meet CLIA educational requirements.

Qualifications

• Broad knowledge of, and ability to use, complex and specialized technical/scientific equipment and automated techniques of analysis.
• Broad knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles.
• Specialized knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area.
• Ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs.
• Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Skills

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, theories and practices of microbiology and related sub-specialties.
• Ability to meet requirements for personnel certification as a general supervisor pursuant to the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988.
• Broad knowledge of, and ability to use, complex and specialized technical/scientific equipment and automated techniques of analysis.
• Broad knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles.
• Specialized knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area.
• Ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs.
• Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans.
• Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards.
• Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution.
• Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match.
• Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options.
• A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs.
• Group life insurance.
• Free Parking for most positions.
• Free LinkedIn Learning access.

Pay

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

Schedule

Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana. The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice. This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work.