Public Health Laboratory Technologist II

Position: Public Health Laboratory Technologist II - 61008938
Location: Columbia

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Responsibilities

Performs tests under limited supervision, including moderate to high complexity screening or diagnostic viral or bacterial disease tests.

Performs serological tests for Hepatitis infections using Chemiluminescent immunoassay; tests serum for HIV‑1 p24 antigen, HIV‑1 / 2 antibodies (HIV‑1/HIV‑2), and Syphilis antibodies using multiplex flow assay. Performs nucleic acid amplification testing using HIV‑1 RNA (Viral Load) or HCV RNA (Viral Load) assays and tests for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis. Interprets results and performs confirmatory testing for retroviruses.

Maintains knowledge of disease states to answer questions from other medical staff. Handles large numbers of potentially infectious samples safely.

Possesses manual dexterity to pipette and visual acuity to read flocculation and agglutination tests. Follows manufacturer inserts and procedure manuals. Maintains knowledge of disease stages, assay capabilities, sensitivity and specificity to answer questions from staff, consultants, and providers. Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots instrumentation assigned to Diagnostic Serology. Compiles printouts and worksheets to input results into the laboratory management system. Maintains accurate quality control and performs proficiency testing in all assigned areas.

Assists with testing and evaluating new procedures. Prepares reports, assists in the preparation and updating of procedure manuals or other laboratory documentation. Monitors inventory. Performs proficiency testing in assigned areas. Performs additional duties as needed.

Qualifications

State

Minimum Requirements:

A bachelor's degree in a related medical or scientific discipline; or an associate degree or equivalent training in a related medical, scientific or technical discipline and journey-level work experience in a related field. Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Agency Additional Requirements

Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds. Must be able to visually distinguish between colors.

Driving Record

Individuals in the final stages of selection who must possess a valid driver’s license to operate a state or personal vehicle will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10‑year driving record.

State Disaster Plan

In accordance with the State’s Disaster Plan, Department of Public Health employees may be required to work during emergencies or disaster situations.

Reasonable Accommodation

Applicants needing accommodation for medical reasons or a sincerely held religious belief may submit a request. A reasonable accommodation may be granted if it does not impose undue hardship or pose a direct threat to others’ health and safety.

Immunization Requirements

All new employees who are healthcare providers with job‑specific exposure risk are required to provide documentation of immunity or be immunized against measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, varicella, and Hepatitis B prior to beginning employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Department of Public Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.

Benefits

• 15 days Annual (Vacation) Leave per year
• 15 days Sick Leave per year
• 13 Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Health, dental, vision, long‑term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouses, and children.  for additional information.
• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation)
• Retirement benefit choices*
  • State Retirement Plan (SCRS)
  • State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP)

* Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.

Hybrid Work

The option to work partially remote or adjusted work hours may be available after 12 months of employment for approved positions.

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