Molecular Biologist IV

Job Title

Molecular Biologist IV

Texas Department of State Health Services – Emergency Preparedness Branch

• Posting Number: 11355
• Posting Audience:
  Internal and External
• Closing Date: 03/31/2026
• Eligibility:
  Regular weekend day shift, full‑time, nonexempt, not eligible for telework
• Travel:
  Up to 10%
• Salary Group: TEXAS‑B‑22 (Monthly) – $5,874.80 to $6,764.00
• Location:
  
  1100 W 49th St, Austin, TX 78756 (DBGL)
• Nearest Major Market:
  Austin

Under the supervision of the Public Health Laboratory Emergency Preparedness Branch Supervisor and Biothreat Lead, the Molecular Biologist IV performs highly advanced technical activities for isolation, rapid detection, and identification of high‑consequence infectious diseases and bioterrorism agents. Core duties include:

• Executing complex molecular and microbiological methods and coordinating proficiency testing and readiness exercises.
• Training internal and external personnel in detection and identification procedures.
• Planning, evaluating, validating, and implementing new testing procedures as a National Laboratory Response Network member.
• Ensuring availability of testing activities across Biochemistry/Genetics and Microbiological Sciences branches.
• Presenting project updates and coordinating acquisition of supplies and documentation.
• Consulting with customers and maintaining a laboratory‑wide safety culture.

• Comprehensive knowledge of diagnostic tests for bacteria and other pathogens.
• Expertise in bacterial culture, biochemical testing, and microscopy.
• Proficiency in rapid detection methodologies: immunoassays, PCR, hybridization, DNA sequencing.
• Skill in manipulating laboratory equipment and biohazardous materials safely.
• Ability to manage inventory and procure necessary supplies.
• Capability to administer proficiency test programs for biological threat agents.
• Computer literacy: word processing, spreadsheets, database analysis, results reporting.
• Strong communication skills—oral and written—teaching procedures to staff and trainees.
• Independent technical decision‑making and positive interaction with all staff.

• Education and experience that meet registration and licensure requirements.
• Experience with microbiological techniques on potentially infectious or pathogenic agents.
• Experience performing molecular testing for human disease.
• Availability to work hours and days other than Monday‑Friday 8:00‑5:00, including weekends.

• Valid Class C Texas driver’s license (or equivalent) required for state business; driving record checked.
• CDC authorization to work with select agents required; security risk assessment and medical surveillance procedures apply.

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). For full benefits details, visit the DSHS Careers Page.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply; active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are invited for consideration. The Texas State Health Services employs individuals in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provides reasonable accommodation during the hiring process.