Molecular Biologist III (NGS Technology)

Brief Job Description

Under the technical guidance of the Group Manager/Team Lead, performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of scientific knowledge, initiative, independent judgment, and experience to conduct testing of specimens using next-generation sequencing (NGS) by processing wastewater and other types of specimens in accordance with laboratory protocols and regulations, and develops new protocols as needed.

Essential Job Functions

• EJ 1: Conducts testing involving nucleic acid technologies including working with RNA and DNA, performing RT-PCR, cDNA generation, Tiling PCR, library preparation and sequencing using short and long read sequencing chemistry to identify and track pathogens of interest for wastewater surveillance in accordance with laboratory protocols and regulations. (45%)
• EJ 2: Researches current scientific literature on new wastewater testing methods and techniques, selects, interprets, and shares information for adaption in the lab. Performs evaluation, verification, and/or validation studies testing and optimizing new methods and summarizes data. This would include researching and testing commercially available testing kits or designing primer sets to target pathogens of interest. Assists in providing consultation and services to internal and external customers regarding specimen requirements, test results, and interpretation. Answers questions regarding laboratory testing methods. Assists in drafting, reviewing, and developing standard operating procedures (SOPs). Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed. (20%)
• EJ 3: Checks quality of NGS data and results; reviews, evaluates, summarizes results and prepares reports. Assesses atypical rest results and retests as directed. Determines circumstances surrounding an incorrect report and the initiation of corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported. Consults with local, state, and national partners concerning results. (15%)
• EJ 4: Investigates quality assurance problems with wastewater testing results, recommends and implements approved corrective actions. Performs troubleshooting of tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments. Evaluates daily quality control records, performs preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensures all records are updated daily. Prepares solutions, reagents and other components for testing as needed/assigned. (10%)
• EJ 5: Participates in cross-training as both a student and trainer by learning or teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques and instrument usage to other laboratory personnel, volunteers, or students, and documenting training for staff and fellow team members. (5%)
• EJ 6: Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of:
• Molecular biology principles and techniques such as Next Generation Sequencing, bioinformatics, and PCR.
• Quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory.
• Validation processes as required by CLIA/CAP.
• Unidirectional workflow and aseptic techniques to reduce the potential for contamination.
• Skill in:
• The operation of molecular as well as general laboratory equipment and in the use of a computer and applicable software.
• Ability to:
• Interpret written protocols and to develop procedures.
• Carry out advanced molecular analyses and tests, to interpret molecular biology test results, and to prepare reports.
• Plan and Prioritize assignments.
• Detect malfunctions in test protocols and errors in transcribed results; make recommendations /implementations for corrective action.
• Teach molecular biology concepts and procedures.
• Communicate technical instructions and interact effectively with staff.
• Maintain positive customer relations.
• Work independently and make technical decisions based on professional knowledge and experience.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications

• Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver’s license, or equivalent license from another state.

Initial Screening Criteria

• Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution; or experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards.
• Experience with molecular biology and microbiology principles and techniques such as NGS and PCR, is preferred but not required.
• Experience with bioinformatics is preferred but not required.
• Experience with quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory and experience in evaluating data, interpreting test results, and taking corrective actions if needed, is preferred but not required.
• Experience in using a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting, is preferred but not required.

Additional Information

• N/A

Screening Assessments

• N/A

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans

• Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.

ADA Accommodations

• In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form