Molecular Biologist III

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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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Functional Title: Molecular Biologist III 
Job Title: Molecular Biologist III 
Agency: Dept of State Health Services 
Department: Microbiology 
Posting Number: 7235 
Closing Date: 08/04/2025 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science 
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-20 
Salary Range: $5,434.39 - $5,977.82 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Regular Weekend Day 
Additional Shift: Days (First) 
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework 
Travel: Up to 5% 
Regular/Temporary: Regular 
Full Time/Part Time: Full time 
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt 
Facility Location:  
Job Location City: AUSTIN 
Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL) 
Other Locations:  
MOS Codes: 230X,43BX,43TX,71A,SEI12 
 
 
 

Brief Job Description:

Under limited supervision of the Genetic Sequencing Branch Group Manager, and Team Lead, follows standard or developmental protocols, performs highly complex and advanced molecular testing and typing using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). Performs Bioinformatics analysis on NGS data. Assists with the development and implementation of additional molecular and epidemiological techniques. Ensures standard protocols and proper quality controls are followed for all the tests performed in the lab. Assists in evaluating the quality of reagents and in managing material resources. Trains individuals on molecular techniques and serves as a Senior Molecular biologist within the laboratory; assumes additional duties as assigned. Duties are performed with significant latitude to interpret standard protocols, with significant use of scientific knowledge and judgment.

Safe operation of either a state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business and an acceptable driving record must be maintained in accordance with DSHS Policy OS-3901, Fleet Operations and Management & Procedures and standards developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF 1: Under the technical guidance of the Group Manager/Team Lead, performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work. Plans and conducts analysis of specimens using NGS by processing specimens in accordance with current protocols and regulations. (45%)

EJF 2: Performs bioinformatics analysis on NGS data using various bioinformatics software or pipelines. (25%)

EJF 3: Investigates quality assurance problems, recommends, and implements approved corrective actions. Initiates troubleshooting of tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments as indicated by Team Lead/Manager. Proposes solutions to problems, implements approved changes according to direction from Team Lead/Group Manager. Evaluates daily quality control records, performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensures all records are updated daily. Prepares solutions, reagents and other components as needed/assigned. Ensures an accurate and updated inventory of team's unique supplies and reagents is available. (15%)

EJF 4: Analyzes specimen and test data to identify unusual patterns of either specimen submission or test results. Evaluates test results, reviews, and releases outgoing reports. Assesses atypical test results, consults with Team Lead/Group Manager and orders retesting as directed. Assists Team Lead/Manager with determination of circumstances surrounding an incorrect report and with the initiation of corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported to customers. (5%)

EJF 5: Researches current scientific literature, selects, interprets, and shares information for adaptation in the lab. Performs evaluation/validation studies and presents data to Team Lead/Manager. Assists in providing consultation and services to internal and external customers regarding specimen requirements, test results, and interpretation. Answers questions regarding laboratory testing methods. Assists Team Lead/Manager in drafting and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs). Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed by Team Lead/Manager. Participates in a cross-training program as both a student and instructor by teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques to other laboratory personnel, volunteers or students and documenting training for staff. (5%)

EJF 6: Performs other duties as assigned by the Team Leader/Manager. 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 and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

Molecular biology principles and techniques such as Next Generation Sequencing, bioinformatics, and PCR.

Quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory.

Validation processes as required by CLIA/CAP.

Unidirectional workflow and aseptic techniques to reduce the potential for contamination.

Skill in:

The operation of molecular as well as general laboratory equipment and in the use of a computer and applicable software.

Ability to:

Interpret written protocols and to develop procedures.

Conduct advanced molecular analyses and tests, to interpret molecular biology test results, and to prepare reports.

Plan and Prioritize assignments.

Detect malfunctions in test protocols and errors in transcribed results; make recommendations /implementations for corrective action.

Teach molecular biology concepts and procedures.

Communicate technical instructions and interact effectively with staff.

Maintain positive customer relations.

Work independently and make technical decisions based on professional knowledge and experience.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver’s license, or equivalent license from another state.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution; or experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards.

Experience with molecular biology and microbiology principles and techniques such as NGS and PCR, is preferred but not required.

Experience with bioinformatics is preferred but not required.

Experience with quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory and experience in evaluating data, interpreting test results, and taking corrective actions if needed, is preferred but not required.

Experience in using a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting, is preferred but not required.

Additional Information:

N/A

Screening Assessments:

N/A

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