Microbiologist -Iii

Applications are available online beginning Thursday, February 19, 2026 through 11:59 pm, Thursday, March 05, 2026.

Currently, there is one Grade III vacancy in the Health and Human Services Department, Laboratory Services Division. This position supervises Microbiologist I’s and II’s and other laboratory staff and acts as the Technical Supervisor in accordance with the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) or the Technical/QA Manager in accordance with the accreditation guidelines by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA).

Grade I - $34.634 - $47.031 Hourly

Grade II - $37.331 - $50.740 Hourly

Grade III - $41.276 - $56.161 Hourly

Performs technical procedures for the detection, isolation and identification of infectious disease agents, including emerging pathogens;
Performs screening and supplemental tests on blood specimens for detection of sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, hepatitis viruses and other infectious diseases;
Performs moderately complex clinical testing including clinical chemistry, toxicology, hematology and blood lead;
Examines food and water samples for detection of microbiological pathogens;
Performs clinical testing including clinical chemistry, toxicology, hematology and blood lead;
Implements and/or performs molecular diagnostic techniques to provide more sensitive and specific results;
May perform chemical analysis of environmental samples when required;
Validates and interprets scientific laboratory test data, keeps records and prepares routine reports;
Enters patient information and test results in automated lab data system and compiles statistics;
Utilizes independent action and judgment in resolving equivocal or indeterminate results;
Performs quality control and quality assurance procedures;
Complies with safety rules and regulations while working in the laboratory;
Assists in orientation of new staff members, other department staff and in lab presentations for outreach;
Undertakes special training for new procedures and assists in the development of procedure manuals for use by other staff;
Performs preventive maintenance procedures on equipment and instruments;
Troubleshoots equipment problems using manuals and/or telephone consultations with equipment representatives; for additional examples duties please see the classification specification:

Microbiologist I-III.

A current State of California Public Health Microbiologist Certificate (
Proof required*);

• Ability to have normal color vision and normal digital dexterity.

Proof of required documents, such as degree or transcripts, must be uploaded to the online application at the time of filing. Any proofs submitted must contain either the applicant's name or other identifying characteristic on the form. Degrees must indicate the field of study and transcripts must indicate a field of study and degree conferred date. Candidates who possess degrees from colleges or universities outside the United States must attach proof of educational equivalence at the time of filing.

• Knowledge of principles and techniques used in laboratory examination and testing;
• Knowledge of laboratory safety precautions and procedures;
• Knowledge of laboratory processing standards to effectively oversee the work of technical/professional staff and provide feedback for revisions;
• Ability to successfully perform a high volume and wide variety of laboratory tests and manage time effectively; and
• Ability to accurately prepare clear and concise written reports.

Willingness to work overtime, weekend and/or holiday hours and/or during health emergencies as needed.

A valid driver’s license, or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel, may be required for some assignments.

• Qualification as a Technical Supervisor in accordance with CLIA; OR
• Qualification as a Technical/QA Manager in accordance with accreditation guidelines by AIHA.

Application and Supplemental Application ......................................................Qualifying

Screening of applicants will be conducted on the basis of…