MICROBIOLOGIST I - LAB BREA - Public Health

About the role

Provide various laboratory services for all customers of the North Texas Regional Laboratory. Areas of testing include consumer microbiology and chemistry, clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, immunology, virology, and parasitology.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory analysis of water, food, milk and dairy products, environmental, and clinical specimens as assigned and in accordance with all internal and regulatory procedures.
• Calculate the results of tests performed.
• Conduct quality control and preventative maintenance procedures on analytical tests, equipment, reagents, media, and samples.
• Evaluate results of these procedures, implement corrective action when indicated, and maintain appropriate documentation for all regulatory requirements.
• Review laboratory testing results for accuracy, precision, and panic values/regulatory violations.
• Report laboratory results to submitters and regulatory agencies electronically, in writing, and/or orally and maintain appropriate documentation for all regulatory requirements.
• Complete a monthly statement of individual test workload and submitter information.
• Maintain a sufficient inventory of supplies needed for test workload.
• Provide test results and information as needed to all customers.
• Participate in proficiency testing and onsite inspections mandated by all regulatory agencies.
• Participate in the evaluation and validation of new test methods.
• Prepare SOPs and forms per regulatory requirements and update these as needed.
• Provide training as needed on new procedures or for new personnel.
• Assist other sections of the lab as needed.
• Participate in continuing education.
• Respond as needed in the event of a bioterrorism event or any public health threat.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a field of science with a minimum of thirty (30) hours in microbiology and biology or a two (2) year associate's degree in an applied science with a minimum of twenty (20) hours of biological science.
• Three (3) years of experience in laboratory science with a bachelor's degree or five (5) years of experience in laboratory science with an associate's degree.

Qualifications

• Certification by the DSHS Division of Regulatory Services for the analysis of milk and dairy products.
• Certification by the TCEQ or NELAC for the analysis of drinking water.
• MT or MLT, ASCP certified or equivalent (i.e. NCA, ISCLT).
• Familiarity with procedures in microbiology, immunology, parasitology, molecular biology, virology, and chemistry.
• Knowledge of good laboratory practices, quality control, and quality assurance.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work with peers in a team environment.

Physical Demands And Work Environment

While performing the duties of this position, the incumbent is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, and lift up to forty (40) pounds. The work environment will include possible exposure to bioterrorism agents, select agents, infectious agents, blood, bodily fluids, corrosive chemicals, organic solvents, needles, open flames, and steam.