Microbiologist (DOH/SLD #10946)

Salary: $22.62 - $33.93 hourly / $47,050 - $70,575 annually. This position is a Pay Band C5.

About the role

The Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD) is the sole public health, environmental, and drug laboratory for New Mexico. It conducts tests for infectious diseases threatening people, livestock and wildlife, as well as for hazardous materials and pollutants in water, air, and milk. It also tests for alcohol and drugs in DWI criminal cases and autopsy cases.

The Biological Sciences Bureau tests for indigenous and exotic infectious disease pathogens of public health significance. Testing includes human clinical and animal specimens, autopsy and necropsy material, food, water, and dairy. Besides routine testing, the bureau conducts regulatory and reference testing, as well as testing for outbreak investigation and surveillance.

This position supports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the New Mexico Department of Health Epidemiology and Response Division in tracking outbreaks. Work is performed both at computers for data analysis, data entry, writing and reviewing SOPs and reports, and in the laboratory (BSL2 and BSL3) for extensive work in Biosafety Cabinets and at the bench. The role involves participation in meetings with supervisors and other sections.

Responsibilities

• Utilize Next Generation Sequencing for outbreak surveillance and pathogen identification.
• Work directly with section supervisors to assist workload.
• Test, troubleshoot, and validate new methods for implementation in appropriate sections.
• Learn and perform clinical diagnostic testing using Molecular methods while complying with CLIA/CAP requirements and federal regulations for select agents and toxins.
• Prepare for and respond to public health emergencies.

Requirements

• Associate Degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science and two (2) years experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitological, and/or molecular biology specialization in a laboratory setting.
• Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
• Designated as a safety-sensitive position; employment is subject to pre-employment and random drug/alcohol testing.
• Must obtain Hepatitis B and possibly Rabies vaccination.
• Must demonstrate sterile techniques and good manual dexterity.
• Successful completion of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) certification.

Ideal Candidate

• Experience in a laboratory setting.
• Experience in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
• Experience in Next Generation Sequencing.
• Experience working in a regulated laboratory.
• Experience with research in a molecular laboratory.

Working Conditions

• Office and laboratory setting with exposure to biological, chemical, physical, and radiological hazards.
• Must use all applicable safety equipment and follow safety precautions specified by the employer.
• Extended standing and repetitive trunk/arm/hand/neck movements with computer usage or assay/methodologies.
• Work involves using high voltage electronic instrumentation.