Microbiologist II (Biotech)

The California Department of Public Health's Microbial Diseases Laboratory Branch is responsible for diagnostic and surveillance testing, applied research projects, and education and training for the identification and characterization of bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and parasitic pathogens of public health importance. 

Under the direction of the Supervisor of the Mycobacterial Drug Susceptibility Unit, within the Mycobacterial, Mycotic & Parasitic Diseases Section, the Microbiologist II performs duties associated with sample receipt, processing, culture, and drug susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The Microbiologist II will assist with development and validation of new phenotypic susceptibility testing for tuberculosis, and may also assist with next generation sequencing procedures, as required. Some functions performed by the Microbiologist II will be conducted under Biosafety Level 3 conditions, frequently requiring the use of appropriate respiratory protection.

Full-time or part-time position available, with flexible work schedule during normal business hours, Monday through Friday. Work on weekends, holidays, and overtime coverage may be offered during a public health emergency, but not required.

The hourly range for this position is $36.00 to $44.00 per hour depending on experience/ qualifications. 

This is a temporary, grant-funded, full-time, benefited position. This position is expected to last through June 2025 and may be extended should funding become available. 

 Must submit a resume with application. 

 If hired for this position, applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 prior to the start date; or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying the applicant for an exemption (that may or may not require accommodation).

 ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs phenotypic drug susceptibility testing on Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates using various platforms, including the ThermoFisher Sensititre and BACTEC MGIT 960.
• Performs test validation studies, e.g. for new or updated drug susceptibility tests and next generation sequencing assays.
• Performs microbiological techniques, including culture, microscopy, and staining.
•  Develops and optimizes workflows, protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for isolation, phenotypic drug susceptibility testing, and molecular characterization of M. tuberculosis.
• Maintains accurate, neat, and thorough laboratory documentation.
• Performs DNA extraction, library preparation, and/or sequencing of mycobacterial, fungal, and bacterial pathogens using various platforms.
• Receives specimens and performs data entry into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Performs all work in compliance with MDL, Section, and Unit QC/QA policies for laboratory operations including biosafety, chemical hygiene, quality, and other applicable standards.
• Assists the Unit Supervisor and the Section Chief with updating relevant SOPs and performing quality assurance and safety audits, QC reviews, and related tasks.
• Complies with the Quality Management system established in the laboratory.
• Reviews test results for completeness and accuracy.
• Maintains inventory of essential chemicals, reagents, and disposables.
• Compiles data and prepares test reports and other technical reports related to grants and projects.
• Communicates effectively with internal and external partners.
• Assists with planning educational events and with training public health microbiologist trainees and other partners. 
• Performs other related laboratory and data management duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to perform micromanipulations such as pipetting small volumes and other fine measurements using laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• Knowledge of standard biosafety precautions for working with potential infectious material, sterile technique, and molecular methods (PCR; sequencing).

 Education/Experience 

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology or related biological science from an accredited university.
• Minimum of two years of experience handling infectious agents in a microbiology laboratory setting; preferably in a clinical or public health laboratory settings performing high complexity testing..

 Certificates/Licenses

• CA Public Health Microbiologist Certification is desired, but not required.

 Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Computer skills (Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, email) 
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally. 
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings. 
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals.
• Ability to work in BSL-3 conditions with required respiratory protection

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Stand                                       Frequently

Walk                                        Frequently

Sit                                            Frequently

Handling / Fingering               Frequently

Reach Outward                       Occasionally

Reach Above Shoulder           Occasionally

Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend     Occasionally

Lift / Carry                               Occasionally - Up to 25 lbs

Push/Pull                                 Occasionally - Up to 25 lbs

See                                          Constantly

Hear                                        Frequently

Taste/ Smell                            Not Applicable

Not Applicable          Not required for essential functions

Occasionally             (0 - 2 hrs/day)

Frequently                 (2 - 5 hrs/day)

Constantly                 (5+ hrs/day)

WORK ENVIRONMENT

General office and laboratory setting, indoors, temperature controlled.

Work in a Biological Safety Level – 3 (BSL-3) laboratory with respiratory protection is required.

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

See job description