Microbiologist II

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:

Under general supervision of the Environmental Microbiology Branch Manager, and with coordination of the Media Preparation Team Lead, performs moderately complex procedures for the media production area following standard protocols; and assists the Team Lead with logistical and technical matters concerning the quality and quantity of products supplied to the laboratory teams by the Media Preparation Team. Assists with the training of team members. Assists with the implementation and evaluation of new procedures and equipment for the Team; presents project updates to the Team Lead; and assists with computer-related problems and/or reports for the Team.  Duties performed with moderate latitude for the use of initiative, scientific knowledge, and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

EJF 1.  Performs all phases of media preparation according to FDA, CAP, CLIA, ISO 17025,  EPA, TNI and DSHS Laboratory protocols including procuring chemical reagents, glassware, and equipment; weighing and measuring chemicals and solutions; mixing media and reagents; rehydrating lyophilized reagents; measuring and adjusting the pH of solutions; filter and heat sterilization techniques, sterile and non-sterile dispensing techniques, capping, and labeling media, insuring proper consistency of the media, and documenting all information needed to track the media and reagents such as component lot numbers, pH, and date of preparation. Performs special projects.  Assists with media production scheduling and media form review.  Maintains first aid and safety supplies.  Assists with inventory management using the WASP inventory software.  Ensures that all media and reagents are prepared according to standard protocols.  Reviews work of Team personnel for accuracy and proper documentation.  Assists laboratory personnel with media/reagent, glassware, and container problems and resolves problems. Consults with laboratory personnel regarding media/ chemical reagent requirements. (40%)

EFJ2.  Performs and monitors the quality of heat and filter sterilized media and lyophilize required products.  Assists with the logistical and technical matters concerning heat/filter sterilized media and lyophilization process.  Advises Team Lead of unusual results, artifacts, or malfunctions. Assists Team Lead with the logistics of media production, including troubleshooting issues such as QC and equipment failures, and conducting special projects such as research methods, equipment, and reagents to improve production performance. (25%)

EJF 3.  Performs and documents preventive maintenance on autoclaves, plate pouring hoods, freezers, cold vaults, drying room, water baths, pH meter, balances, label machines and other equipment.  Reviews all documentation for completion.  Compares performance of equipment with acceptable parameters and refers any unacceptable performance to Team Lead, providing an assessment of the problem, and submits work orders as appropriate.  Uses word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications to prepare reports. (15%)

EJF 4.  Assist with the training of team members, including required safety trainings.  Identifies training needs, provides regular training and documents training as appropriate.  Assists with the evaluation of the competency of personnel to perform procedures and reports results to Team Lead for appropriate action. (10%)

EJF5.  Assists the Team Lead with the implementation and evaluation of new media recipes, procedures, and equipment.  Presents project updates to the Team Lead.  Assist other staff in their duties and provides additional support with special projects to maintain the Team’s high quality and quantity of productivity.  Participates in weekend and holiday rotation duties.  Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory.  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.  (10%)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

Thorough knowledge of microbiological and chemical principles and techniques, specifically knowledge and skills in media and reagent production and their quality control. Ability to maintain a current inventory of stock. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; follow written and verbal instructions. Skill in manipulating and troubleshoot standard laboratory equipment (such as autoclaves, balances, pH meters and glassware washing machines) with speed, accuracy, and safety. Ability to use a computer for word processing, spreadsheet, and database analysis. Ability to work independently and in harmony with other team members. Ability to keep accurate detailed records. Ability to multi-task and manage multiple priorities. Ability to analyze complex scientific and regulatory information and reach an appropriate conclusion. Ability to make technical decisions based on review of data, professional knowledge, and experience. Ability to develop and follow standard operating procedures and protocols.  

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
None

Initial Screening Criteria:

Experience working in research, clinical, environmental or media production laboratory. (Required)

Prefer a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution; or prefer an earned associate’s degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution. 

Experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards. (Preferred)

Experience with all phases of media preparation. (Preferred)

Experience working in a Team setting and providing customer service. (Preferred)

Experience with maintenance of glassware. (Preferred)

Ability to maintain inventory of supplies in a laboratory setting. (Preferred)

Experience with spreadsheet or database programs. (Preferred)

Experience using various items of laboratory equipment. (Preferred)

Experience working in an ISO accredited laboratory or federally regulated laboratory. (Preferred) 
Must be willing to work weekends and holidays in a rotational basis as needed.  Must be willing to work hours other than 8:00am to 5:00pm. 

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