Microbiologist 1
About the role
Are you eager to use your microbiology expertise to help protect animal health across Pennsylvania? Join the Department of Agriculture as a Microbiologist 1 and make a positive impact through advanced laboratory testing. This role allows you to use your scientific skills to investigate infectious agents and support statewide animal health efforts. You will support a team that values accuracy, safety, and public service. If you enjoy hands-on laboratory work and value accurate diagnoses and safer communities, this may be the career for you!
Responsibilities
- Perform molecular assays to detect genetic material of infectious agents in laboratory specimens
- Extract DNA and RNA from test materials and analyze results using approved diagnostic methods
- Document all specimen information, verify results, and report findings through the laboratory information system
- Prepare solutions and reagents, conduct measurements, and maintain a stocked inventory of supplies
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, follow bio-safety procedures, and complete routine housekeeping tasks
- Follow standard operating procedures, assist with quality control tasks, and support accreditation requirements
Qualifications
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in microbiology; or a bachelor’s degree that includes 20 credits in microbiology, cellular biology, molecular biology or bacteriology and 12 credits in chemistry or biochemistry. Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.
Other Requirements: Must be vaccinated against rabies prior to start of employment and maintain a current rabies vaccination throughout employment; must meet Pennsylvania residency requirement; must be able to perform essential job functions.
Schedule
Limited-term, full-time employment, lasting approximately 8.5 months. Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch. Telework: up to 1 day per month, requiring a securely configured high‑speed internet connection and an approved location inside Pennsylvania; if unable to telework, report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. Telework eligibility is subject to change.