Laboratory Evaluation Officer

DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.

Employee Benefits:

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.

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Brief Job Description:

This is a Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Sanitarian III position within the Milk Operations Branch working under the general direction of the Milk Operations Branch Manager. This position is responsible for maintaining the laboratory program for milk, dairy products, seawater and Drug Administration (FDA) certification as a (Laboratory Evaluation Officer). Evaluates laboratories performing testing on milk, dairy products, seawater, and shellfish. Ensures Laboratory Proficiency Testing (PT) Program. Participates in the planning, organization, preparation, packages splits samples on an annual basis. This position assists in tabulating, analyzing and reporting results of milk splits. Prepares written reports and provides technical assistance, support, and training for laboratories. Maintains record of current laboratory listing on the Interstate Milk Shippers (IMS) facilities listing. Provides support for Milk and Dairy field staff for the sampling program. This position trains Milk & Dairy Staff on laboratory sample proficiency including testing criteria, new dairy product standards, and all Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) laboratory changes. Provides the tabulation of LEO performance measures for the Legislative Budge Board (LBB) program. Provides support in developing rules and revisions to Milk and Dairy rules regarding laboratory changes. Duties are performed with considerable latitude for use of professional knowledge and judgment. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supportive role to meet the agency objectives and needs for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location on a temporary basis.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Maintains certification as a State Laboratory Evaluation Officer for milk, dairy products, and shellfish laboratories. Performs on-site evaluations of approximately 50 milk laboratories for compliance with PMO requirements within 24 months of their certification date. Certifies all milk and dairy laboratory technicians as per the requirements of the PMO. Performs on-site evaluations of shellfish laboratories for compliance with the provisions of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP) within 24 months of their certification date. Prepares clear and concise reports of the findings of the on-site evaluations and distributes them as necessary within 60 days of the date of the evaluation. Maintains records of proficiency test results for the laboratories evaluated. Maintains an accurate list of certified laboratories and analyst for milk and shellfish testing. Maintains an accurate list of all analysts in the state. (50%). Ensures the operation of the Laboratory Proficiency Testing Program (milk splits). Tabulates, analyzes and reports results of milk split samples testing. Obtains from FDA, the supply of animal drugs used in preparation of the milk split samples. Maintains glassware, equipment and supplies used in the milk split program. Performs data analysis and reporting of the proficiency testing samples. (20%). Provide support and training for laboratories. Provides technical assistance, support and training in microbiological analysis of milk and dairy products, and shellfish. Provides support for Milk and Dairy staff regarding laboratory sample proficiency including, testing criteria, new dairy product standards, and all Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) laboratory changes. (20%) Maintain current listing of IMS Grade A Laboratory Listing. Support the Milk and Dairy staff for the sampling program. (10%).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Comprehensive knowledge of the state and federal rules and regulations governing the inspection and certification of milk and dairy and shellfish testing laboratories. Knowledge of the milk and dairy rules and regulations. Knowledge of quality assurance and statistical methods related to laboratory testing. Ability to work independently. Ability to evaluate an analyst’s performance of certified procedures, to teach bacteriological testing procedures and to use various items of laboratory equipment. Ability to analyze complex scientific, and regulatory information. Ability to organize data and write detailed reports with recommendations. Ability to build effective working relationships. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Skill in the use of a personal computer for word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications. Skill in resolving conflict. Skill in manipulating standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy and safety. Ability to establish and implement project goals and objectives. Ability to meet deadlines and establish priorities. Ability to analyze and solve administrative and work-related problems. Ability to represent the Department at national and/or state meetings during which complex health issues are presented, discussed, and solutions sought.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Current registration as a Sanitarian with the State of Texas; or current national registration as a sanitarian.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Possesses a Bachelor's, Master’s, or Doctoral degree in chemical, physical, biological, or clinical medical technology from an accredited institution. Current registration as a Sanitarian with the State of Texas or current national registration as a sanitarian.

Additional Information:

This position will be required to maintain officer qualifications and certification on a tri-annual basis as provided by the FDA.

 

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility:

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.  Download the I-9 form