Current jobs related to Microbial Scientist - Richmond, Virginia - Commonwealth of Virginia

Position Overview:

The Commonwealth of Virginia is seeking a qualified individual to fill the role of Scientist I within the Microbial Reference Group. This position involves conducting complex testing to identify, isolate, and characterize antimicrobial-resistant pathogens responsible for serious healthcare-associated infections. These pathogens are often involved in outbreak investigations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform high complexity testing utilizing molecular techniques, clinical specimen cultures, traditional microbiological methods, and antimicrobial susceptibility assessments.
• Engage in cross-training initiatives and participate in quality assurance and safety programs.
• Assist in the validation and implementation of testing methodologies.
• Collaborate with various testing teams within the organization and provide support to public health authorities.

Work Environment:

This is a full-time position supported by federal funding, offering state benefits. The role may require occasional weekend, holiday, and on-call duties.

Benefits:

The Commonwealth of Virginia provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Affordable health insurance options
• Pre-tax spending accounts
• Paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Paid holidays and vacation
• Wellness programs
• A state retirement plan with tax-deferred savings options, including employer matching

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education and experience meeting the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) standards for high complexity testing personnel.
• Proficiency in microbiology principles.
• Understanding of quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) protocols.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety practices.
• Effective communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with laboratory safety protocols and operations.
• Proven ability to perform high complexity testing independently in a BSL-2 laboratory setting.
• Knowledge of clinical microbiological cultures, pathogen identification, and molecular methodologies.
• Experience with complex laboratory instrumentation.
• Competence in QA and QC documentation and interpretation.
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

Application Process:

Applicants will receive confirmation upon successful submission of their application. It is essential to monitor the application status through the designated online portal.

The selected candidate will undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Note that sponsorship for this position is not available.

The Commonwealth of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging applications from minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and those with national service experience.