Microbiologist

Detailed Job Description Purpose of Position / Summary

Incumbent is responsible for coordinating and performing the full range of microbiological examinations and analyses including culture, biochemical tests, EIA, serotyping, PCR, and WGS of clinical specimens for isolation and identification of enteric bacteria including but not limited to Salmonella,

E.coli, Shigella, Vibrio, Listeria and Campylobacter. Incumbent will also be responsible for the documentation of all quality control and quality assurance activities according to CLIA regulations. In addition, this position may cross‑train in other areas of the lab that may include molecular, microbiological, viral, serological, and other techniques to support routine testing and provide backup capacity.

• Have in-depth knowledge and ability in microbiology and molecular biology; perform laboratory assays and learn techniques upon proficiency testing.
• Conduct examinations of samples and reference samples for analyses such as molecular detection or isolation and identification of microorganisms, toxins, antigens, or nucleic acids.
• Strictly follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting, and maintaining records of patient test results.
• Extract nucleic acids from specimens, isolates, and samples via manual and automated methods.
• Utilize molecular techniques such as PCR, sequencing, MALDI‑TOF, and WGS.
• Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results and report findings.
• Maintain laboratory record system of submitted samples and specimens and possible referral.
• Conduct quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, and equipment in strict adherence to the laboratory's quality control policies.
• Maintain an inventory of laboratory supplies and order as needed.
• Assist in preparations of epidemiological and/or statistical reports from data compiled on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis.
• Maintain competency in all trained areas.
• Perform all related work as required.
• Comply with state and federal regulations for specimen processing, test performance, documentation, corrective actions, and supervision.

• Extensive knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of microbiology and related sub‑specialties.
• Specialized knowledge of current scientific methods and testing procedures and ability to apply them to public health laboratory problems.
• Specialized knowledge and ability to use a full range of standard technical equipment, complex scientific apparatus, and automated techniques of analysis.
• Extensive knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles.
• Aware of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area (i.e., CLIA).
• Ability to meet requirements for personnel certification as a technologist under CLIA.
• Ability to communicate technical information both verbally and in writing and maintain productive relationships.
• Participate in proficiency testing programs and recognize QA problems.
• Compile, analyze, evaluate, and prepare laboratory reports.

Incumbent is engaged in scientific analyses that demand accuracy and demonstrated proficiency in applying laboratory analytical skills to select pertinent guidelines and formulate plans for problem solving. Projects involve many complex variables. The microbiologist is often called upon to analyze and identify unusual specimens or samples. Work requires analytical judgment and technical knowledge to draw accurate, logical conclusions. Incumbent will also be required to develop and research new testing procedures.

Incumbent works independently as an expert in the assigned area. Technical or detailed instruction is provided only upon request when necessitated by a procedural change or special project. Incumbent maintains established safety practices when working with materials that have a chemical hazard or biohazard potential. Reports are reviewed for general technical accuracy; however, tasks are performed independently. Errors in work could adversely affect the health, safety, and wellbeing of the incumbent or coworkers.