Molecular Biologist IV

Date:
Jul 20, 2026

Location:

AUSTIN, TX

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Functional

Title:

Molecular Biologist IV Job Title: Molecular Biologist IV Agency: Dept of State Health Services Department: Emergency Preparedness Posting Number: 18982 Closing Date: 08/19/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science Salary Range: $5,874.00 - $6,353.00 Pay Frequency: Monthly Salary Group: TEXAS-B-23 Shift: Regular Weekend Day Additional Shift: Days (First)
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 10%
Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility

Location:


Job Location City: AUSTIN Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL)
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 230X,43BX,43TX,71A,SEI
12

Under general direction of the Public Health Laboratory Emergency Preparedness Branch Supervisor and Biothreat Lead, performs duties for the Biothreat Team. Performs highly advanced technical activities for isolation and the methods of rapid detection and identification of high consequence infectious diseases and agents used in bioterrorism. Work includes routine performance of complex molecular and microbiological methods and coordinating proficiency testing and readiness exercises to assure competency in testing methods and procedures.

Responsible for training other internal and external personnel in the procedures for detection and identification of high consequence infectious agents. As a member of the National Laboratory Response Network, plans for, evaluates, validates, and implements new procedures. Determines appropriate specifications for proficiency testing and readiness exercises performed to assure competency in testing methods. Assures availability of testing activities in the Biochemistry and Genetics Branch and Microbiological Sciences Branch.

Presents project updates to the supervisor or director. Coordinates the acquisition of appropriate supplies and the maintenance of current records, documentation, and results reporting. Consults with customers. Duties performed under minimal supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative, scientific knowledge and independent judgment. Supports the creation of a laboratory-wide safety culture by serving as a liaison to the Safety Office to ensure a healthy and safe workplace.

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

EJF 1. Under supervision of the Emergency Preparedness Branch Manager and the Biothreat Team Leader, develops bacteriology skills necessary to become subject matter expert on bacteria, viruses, or toxins that could be used as a threat agent. These skills include complete knowledge of direct fluorescent antibody staining, polymerase chain reaction, enzyme immunoassays, DNA sequencing, and other emerging technologies applied to the isolation and/or identification of threat agents.

These skills include being able to teach the techniques to other laboratorians in sentinel and reference Laboratory Response Network laboratories. Maintains and follows current standard operating procedures and bench manuals related to the detection and identification of agents used in biological threats, including standard and rapid molecular microbiological methods; answers technical questions and advises internal and external personnel; and under supervision of the Emergency Preparedness Branch Manager…