Salary: $5,111.00 - $6,870.00 Monthly
Location : King County - Shoreline, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: DOH9004
Department: Dept. of Health
Division: Public Health Laboratories (PHL)
Opening Date: 10/07/2026
Closing Date: 10/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description
Microbiologist 2, Antibiotic Resistance Laboratory

This is a full-time onsite position located at our Public Health Laboratory in Shoreline, WA.
The Opportunity

As a Microbiologist 2 in the Antibiotic Resistance Laboratory, you will perform specialized testing to detect and characterize antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi that can pose serious public health risks. Working across the Antibiotic Resistance Laboratory Network (ARLN) and Reference Laboratory, you will use methods such as antimicrobial susceptibility testing, PCR, MALDI-TOF, whole genome sequencing, and biochemical testing to identify organisms and provide accurate, timely results.
Your work will go beyond running tests. You will review results and quality control data, troubleshoot technical issues, maintain testing quality, and contribute to the validation and implementation of new laboratory methods. You will also share your expertise by training and mentoring other laboratory staff and helping strengthen practices across the lab.
The results produced by this team help public health partners understand and respond to antibiotic resistance and emerging threats such as Candida auris and carbapenemase-producing organisms. During outbreaks and other public health emergencies, you may also provide testing support in other areas of the Public Health Laboratories.
Key Responsibilities Include:

Perform antimicrobial and antifungal susceptibility testing, organism identification, and screening for antibiotic-resistant and emerging pathogens.
Use laboratory methods including PCR, MALDI-TOF, whole genome sequencing, biochemical testing, AST, and AFST to analyze submitted specimens.
Review testing results, quality control data, and supporting documentation to ensure results are accurate and ready for release.
Investigate testing, assay, and quality control issues, identify root causes, and work with laboratory staff to resolve technical problems.
Maintain laboratory quality through QC/QA activities, proficiency testing, equipment maintenance and calibration, inventory, and accurate documentation.
Develop and perform validations, verifications, and risk assessments for new or updated laboratory methods, equipment, and processes.
Train and mentor microbiologists, laboratory technicians, students, and fellows on testing methods, procedures, and good laboratory practices.
Maintain competency across applicable testing methods and provide bench and surge testing during outbreaks, staffing needs, and other public health response activities.

Why You'll Love This Role

Put your microbiology expertise to work on complex testing. You'll use a range of advanced methods while building expertise across both the ARLN and Reference Laboratory.
Have a voice in how the lab works. You'll troubleshoot challenging testing issues, contribute to new methods and processes, and share your knowledge with other laboratory professionals.
Help detect emerging public health threats. Your work provides information public health partners rely on to identify and respond to antibiotic-resistant organisms and other infectious disease threats.
Strengthen public health laboratory capacity. By maintaining high-quality testing, mentoring others, and supporting outbreak response, you'll help ensure Washington has reliable laboratory services when they are needed most.

What you Bring

You're a microbiologist who enjoys both the technical and problem-solving sides of laboratory work. You're comfortable working across different testing methods, digging into unexpected results, and maintaining high standards for quality and accuracy. You communicate well with colleagues, share your expertise with others, and value working on a team where different perspectives and experiences strengthen the work. Most importantly, you understand that behind every specimen and result is a public health decision that depends on getting the science right.

Required Qualifications

There are multiple pathways to qualify for this position. You must meet one of the options provided and any additional criteria listed. Experience may have been gained through paid or unpaid activities. Please ensure any relevant experience defined below is outlined in your cover letter, resume, and/or applicant profile.
Option 1: 4 or more years of experience in a Microbiology or Molecular laboratory including 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution which includes either 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses - OR - 24 semester hours of science courses that includes Six (6) semester hours of chemistry, Six (6) semester hours of biology, and Twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination AND Laboratory training that meets one of these criteria: Completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by the ABHES, the CAHEA, or other organization approved by HHS - OR - At least three (3) months documented laboratory training in each specialty in which the incumbent performs high complexity testing.
Option 2: Bachelor's degree or higher in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Cell biology, Biology, Chemistry, or another basic medical science, WHICH INCLUDES 20 or more semester hours or quarter hours equivalent in microbiology, or a subject related to the study of microorganisms; AND two (2) or more years of experience in a Microbiology or Molecular laboratory.

A Master's degree in the aforementioned areas will substitute for 1 year of experience
A PhD in the aforementioned areas will substitute for 2 years of experience

And the following knowledge, skills, and experience:

Knowledge of microbiology principles and standard laboratory practices.
Experience performing laboratory testing using established methods, procedures, and protocols.
Skill in reviewing and interpreting laboratory test results and quality control data.
Skill in troubleshooting laboratory testing and resolving technical or quality control issues.
Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance and quality control principles and practices.

Required Competencies:

Cultural Humility - You are curious, self-aware, and open to perspectives and experiences different from your own. You will continue to learn, reflect on your own assumptions and biases, adapt your approach, and build respectful relationships where different cultures, identities, and perspectives are valued.

Equity and Inclusion - You are committed to creating an environment where people feel valued, included, and supported. You will consider how decisions affect people with different backgrounds and experiences, remove barriers where possible, and incorporate diverse perspectives and lived experiences into your work.

People Impact Orientation - You understand that how you work can have a meaningful impact on others. You will seek to understand the needs and experiences of the people affected by your work, take responsibility for your impact, and adjust your approach when needed to create better outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

Certified as Microbiologist (ASCP) or Medical Technologist (ASCP)
Experience working in a public health or reference laboratory setting.
Knowledge of College of American Pathologists (CAP) standards.
Experience with antimicrobial resistance testing or surveillance, particularly emerging organisms such as Candida auris or carbapenemase-producing organisms.
Experience using STARLIMS or a similar laboratory information management system (LIMS).

Employee Benefits

We offer a solid benefits package that supports you and your family's health, financial security, and work-life balance. You'll have access to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and long-term disability insurance, flexible spending and health savings accounts, and retirement plans that help you plan for tomorrow while you're living today. Paid holidays, vacation and sick leave help you recharge, and additional programs like dependent care assistance and professional development opportunities add value beyond basic coverage. Join us and enjoy benefits designed to care for you as much as you care about public health. Learn more about DOH benefits and see how we support your life at work and beyond by visiting Work@Health.

The Public Health Laboratories - Where Science Protects Communities

At the Public Health Laboratories, every test matters. From hunting emerging pathogens to ensuring every newborn in the state gets life-saving screenings, your work will drive disease detection, outbreak response, and protect Washington's most vulnerable. We're the state's reference lab, tracking rare threats like rabies, hantavirus, and West Nile virus, analyzing outbreaks, and safeguarding food and water safety. Here, science meets service in a collaborative, equity-driven team committed to real-world impact and public health at scale.

About the Washington State Department of Health

We're nearly 2,000 professionals across Washington working together to protect and improve community health. Guided by our values of Equity, Innovation, and Engagement, we address health disparities, respond to emerging challenges, and strengthen systems that support resilience. At DOH, we help reduce barriers, collaborate with diverse communities, and champion equitable health outcomes. We're passionate people who are driven to make a difference in public health. Explore more about the Department of Health, our programs, and our impact by visiting our website.
What Expect (Working Conditions):

The following describes the working conditions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Work Setting, Hazards, Tools and Equipment

This is an onsite position working in the Public Health Laboratories located in Shoreline, WA. The work involves handling bacterial and fungal pathogens and human specimens, using standard laboratory equipment, biological safety cabinets, microscopes, and required PPE, including gowns, gloves, and respirators. Some work may require standing or using a microscope for up to two hours at a time. The DOH campus is a smoke-free, drug-free, alcohol-free, and scent-neutral environment. This position may also participate in public health emergency preparedness and response activities.
Due to potential laboratory exposure, this position may require vaccinations for laboratory contaminants as determined by management. Respirator use may also be required. If required, DOH will provide the necessary medical evaluation, fit testing, and training.

Schedule and Travel

The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with work outside regular hours as needed for outbreaks or emergency response and participation in a rotating 24/7 on-call schedule. Limited travel, typically up to two trips per year, may be required for conferences or partner meetings. This role also interacts with specimen submitters, local health officials, and state epidemiology staff.

Representation

This position is represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).
APPLICATION DIRECTIONS:

We encourage you to apply

If you meet the required qualifications for this position; we want to hear from you. Desired qualifications describe additional experience, knowledge or skills that may be helpful in the role, but they are not required to be considered for the position. We welcome applicants with different backgrounds, experiences, identities, and perspectives.
To be considered, you must complete the online application in full and submit all required materials. Incomplete applications or applications missing required materials will not be considered. When completing your application, please include the following required materials:

Cover letter: describing your qualifications for this specific position
Resume: that details your applicable experience and education.
Three (3) professional references: We require 3 professional references including at least one current or recent supervisor.

Veterans Preference: We value the experience and skill veterans bring to the workforce and encourage veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses to apply. Eligible veterans may qualify for veterans' preference in accordance with Washington State Law. If you are claiming veterans' preference, you must attach your applicable DD-214 documentation to your application. Please redact your social security number, date of birth, and any other sensitive information before uploading and attaching the document.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: We regard diversity as the foundation of our strength, recognizing that differing insights and abilities enable us to reflect the unique needs of the communities we serve.

DOH is an equal-opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination based on race/ethnicity/color, creed, sex, pregnancy, age, religion, national origin, marital status, the presence or perception of a disability, veteran's status, military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender expression, or gender identity.
Questions and Accommodations: If you have questions, need assistance with the application process, require an accommodation, or would like to request this posting in an alternative format, please contact Shawnelle Goalder at [click to reveal email address]employment@doh.wa.gov and reference DOH9004.
Technical Support: Reach out to NEOGOV directly at [click to reveal phone number]1-855-524-5627 for technical support and login issues.
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Supplemental Information
This recruitment may be used to fill positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment are filled, the candidate pool may be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Only applicants who follow the directions and complete the Application Process in full will have their responses reviewed for consideration.

Experience and education selected, listed, or detailed in the Supplemental Questions must be verifiable on the submitted applicant profile.

This position is located in King County. The advertised pay includes a 5% location-based salary adjustment.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026
01

Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status? (e.g. H-1B, F1, TN, etc.) DOH is not an E-Verify agency)

I have the following qualifications (select one):

a. Option 1: 4 or more years of experience in a Microbiology or Molecular laboratory including 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution which includes either 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses - OR - 24 semester hours of science courses that includes Six (6) semester hours of chemistry, Six (6) semester hours of biology, and Twelve (12) semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination AND Laboratory training that meets one of these criteria: Completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by the ABHES, the CAHEA, or other organization approved by HHS - OR - At least three (3) months documented laboratory training in each specialty in which the incumbent performs high complexity testing.
b. Option 2: Bachelor's degree or higher in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Cell biology, Biology, Chemistry, or another basic medical science, WHICH INCLUDES 20 or more semester hours or quarter hours equivalent in microbiology, or a subject related to the study of microorganisms; AND two (2) or more years of experience in a Microbiology or Molecular laboratory.
c. A relevant Master's degree and courses taken as well as 1 (one) year of experience as described in option 2/response option b.
d. A relevant PhD and courses taken as described in option 2/response option b.
e. None of the above

How would you describe your knowledge of microbiology principles and standard laboratory practices?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this skill.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. I have the knowledge needed to independently apply this information in my work.
d. I have advanced knowledge in this area and can independently apply that knowledge in complex or non-routine situations.

How would you describe your experience in performing laboratory testing using established methods, procedures, and protocols?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this experience.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. I have independently performed this activity.
d. I have independently and regularly performed this activity, including in complex or non-routine situations, and have extensive knowledge in this area.

How would you describe your skills in reviewing and interpreting laboratory test results and quality control data?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this skill.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. I have the skills needed to perform this activity independently.
d. I have advanced skills and proficiency in this area and can independently perform this activity, including in complex or non-routine situations.

How would you describe your skills in troubleshooting laboratory testing and resolving technical or quality control issues?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this skill.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. I have the skills needed to perform this activity independently.
d. I have advanced skills and proficiency in this area and can independently perform this activity, including in complex or non-routine situations.

How would you describe your knowledge of laboratory quality assurance and quality control principles and practices?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this skill.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. have the knowledge needed to independently apply this information in my work.
d. I have advanced knowledge in this area and can independently apply that knowledge in complex or non-routine situations.

Are you certified as Microbiologist (ASCP) or Medical Technologist (ASCP)?

How would you describe your experience working in a public health or reference laboratory setting?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this experience.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. I have independently performed this activity.
d. I have independently and regularly performed this activity, including in complex or non-routine situations, and have extensive knowledge in this area.

How would you describe your knowledge of College of American Pathologists (CAP) standards?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this skill.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. I have the knowledge needed to independently apply this information in my work.
d. I have advanced knowledge in this area and can independently apply that knowledge in complex or non-routine situations.

How would you describe your experience in antimicrobial resistance testing or surveillance, particularly emerging organisms such as Candida auris or carbapenemase-producing organisms?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this experience.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. I have independently performed this activity.
d. I have independently and regularly performed this activity, including in complex or non-routine situations, and have extensive knowledge in this area.

How would you describe your experience using STARLIMS or a similar laboratory information management system (LIMS)?

a. I have not performed this activity or do not have this experience.
b. I have some exposure to this activity, typically through observation, receiving training, or supporting someone else who was responsible for it.
c. I have independently performed this activity.
d. I have independently and regularly performed this activity, including in complex or non-routine situations, and have extensive knowledge in this area.

I have reviewed my responses to the supplemental questions for accuracy and understand they cannot be changed once the job announcement closes.

Required Question

Microbiologist 2, Antibiotic Resistance/Reference Laboratory DOH9004

Microbiologist 2, Antibiotic Resistance/Reference Laboratory DOH9004

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