Microbiologist I (Foodborne & Waterborne Diseases Section - Genotyping Unit)

SUMMARY

California's Microbial Diseases Laboratory is responsible for the diagnostics, education, and applied research programs for identification, surveillance, control, and prevention of bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases originating in humans.

Under the direction of the Supervisor of the Genotyping Unit, Foodborne & Waterborne Diseases Section of the Microbial Diseases Laboratory Program, the microbiologist performs duties associated with the receipt, processing, culture, and genetic fingerprinting of bacterial isolates. The position will require on-job training and certification in Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) for participation in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention PulseNet Network outbreak surveillance program. The position is Monday-Friday, 40 hours per week; weekend, holiday, and overtime may be required during a public health emergency.

The hourly range for this position is $34.29 to $49.02 per hour depending on experience/qualifications.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Cultivate bacterial pathogens and quality control strains.
• Perform genetic fingerprinting of bacterial pathogens using WGS and other molecular techniques.
• Analyze genomic sequences using BioNumerics software.
• Participate in proficiency testing and maintain PulseNet certification in WGS.
• Maintain the database of genetic information, participate in reporting of the results, and communicate effectively with internal and external partners.
• Comply with Quality Management system established in the laboratory.
• Validation testing of new equipment, methodologies, and software for next generation sequencing-based detection and characterization of bacterial isolates.
• Specimen receipt and data entry into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Preparation and quality control testing of media and reagents.
• Calibration, maintenance and parallel testing of laboratory equipment.
• Ordering and monthly inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents.
• Attendance at training and informational meetings/webinars/conference calls related to PulseNet workflow.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to perform micromanipulations such as pipetting small volumes and other fine measurements using laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• Knowledge of standard biosafety precautions for working with potential infectious material, sterile technique, and molecular methods (PCR; sequencing).
• Experience performing molecular biology techniques, such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), sequencing, and DNA extraction is preferred, but not required.
• Minimum of one year of experience handling infectious agents in a microbiology laboratory setting.

Education/Experience

• Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university with course work in microbiology and molecular biology is required.

Certificates/Licenses

• None

Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Computer skills (Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, email)
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand: Frequently
• Walk: Frequently
• Sit: Frequently
• Handling / Fingering: Frequently
• Reach Outward: Occasionally
• Reach Above Shoulder: Occasionally
• Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend: Occasionally
• Lift / Carry: Occasionally - Up to 30 lbs
• Push/Pull: Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs
• See (Vision): Constantly
• Taste/ Smell: Not Applicable

KEY

• Not Applicable = Not required for essential functions
• Occasionally = (0 - 2 hrs/day)
• Frequently = (2+ - 5 hrs/day)
• Constantly = (5+ hrs/day)

WORK ENVIRONMENT

General office and laboratory setting, indoors, temperature controlled.

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, without regard to age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, reproductive health decision making, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer), AIDS or HIV, genetic information or characteristics, veteran status or military service.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.