Microbiologist I

Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled Microbiologist I to join our team at the Texas Department of Aging & Disability Services. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing basic and moderately complex microbiological work for the isolation and identification of pathogenic bacteria from both referred cultures and clinical specimens.

Key Responsibilities:
Essential Job Functions:
1. Under technical guidance, performs basic and moderately complex procedures for the isolation and identification of bacteria from referred cultures and clinical specimens. Inoculates pure culture isolates to a battery of physiological tests; reads, interprets, and records biochemical test results. Performs antimicrobial susceptibility testing or serotyping as needed. Completes the testing process, accurately records all test reactions, and confirms the identification of the organism by interpretation of appropriate identification keys. Recognizes problems or deviations and refers to supervisor or team lead. Participates in proficiency testing program and demonstrates proficiency in testing work. Ensures that all testing is performed within turnaround time. (40%)
2. Performs quality control and preventive maintenance. Routinely prepares and evaluates the quality of reagents used in tests by tracking expiration dates, performing required quality control, and documentation of quality control results. Documents technical performance issues. Identifies any aberrant quality control results, notifies the Team Lead for corrective actions with a clear description of what occurred. (10%)
3. Evaluates test results and assures accuracy and completeness. Enters test results into laboratory information system for reporting. Identifies abnormal results and refers to Team Lead. Files completed reports according to standard protocol. (10%)
4. Ensures that there is an adequate supply of reagents and miscellaneous supplies and assists in supporting the group in maintaining an adequate supply of media and supplies. Reviews on a monthly basis the expiration dates of reagents and places requests for reagents when supply is below desired level. Reviews supplies for completeness of information and participates in semi-annual SAO inventory. (10%)
5. Performs preventative maintenance and basic troubleshooting on instruments. Recognizes problems and deviations and refers to supervisor Documents daily readings and verifies accurate performance. Participates in the disposal of biohazardous waste. (10%)
6. Participates in training program by reading procedures, listening, taking notes, and asking questions. Takes responsibility for ensuring that the knowledge and skills demonstrated are clearly understood and competency can be demonstrated. Participates in cross-training program by teaching or demonstrating laboratory techniques in accordance with standard operating procedures. (10%)
7. Assists with verification or validation studies of new products or techniques. Assists in development and revision of procedural manuals. Assists with special projects or surge capacity testing. Under technical guidance of the Team Lead, provides data for project updates. Compiles data in spreadsheet or word processing format for presentations. (5%)
8. Assists other staff in their duties and provides additional support with special projects to maintain the section's high quality and productivity. Participates in the weekend and holiday rotations. Attends meetings, interacts, and communicates with customers when applicable. Attends and/or participates in work-related workshops, seminars, and other training activities. Answers routine customer inquiries according to SOP's and some non-routine inquiries as directed by supervisor. Interacts with other programs as requested. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (5%) Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Basic knowledge of diagnostic and public health bacteriology, including the use of various identification keys and biochemical tests to accurately identify bacteria representing the entire spectrum of the pathogenic organisms.
General knowledge of the expected reactions of most culture media with known quality control organisms.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability to use various items of laboratory equipment, including use of a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting.
Ability to interact effectively with staff, work independently, work in harmony with other team members, and follow standard operating procedures and protocols.
Skill in manipulating standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy, and safety.
Can't be color blind.

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