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: 11129 
Closing Date: 11/27/2025 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science 
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21 
Salary Range: $5,434.39 - $7,253.83 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: 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 Bacteriology Branch Manager and Molecular Microbiology Team Lead, following standard or developmental protocols, performing highly complex and advanced molecular testing and typing using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Performs DNA/RNA extractions for Whole Genome Sequencing. Assists with antimicrobial susceptibility testing. 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. Consults with medical personnel regarding test application and interpretation. Trains individuals in molecular techniques. Serves as senior Molecular Biologist within the laboratory; assumes additional duties as assigned. Duties are performed with considerable latitude to interpret standard protocol, 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):

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

EJF 1. Under the technical guidance of the Branch Manager/ Team Lead, develops and performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work. Performs DNA/RNA extractions for Whole Genome Sequencing. Helps Team Lead with coordinating laboratory workflow within the team and with other teams/groups. (30%)

EJF 2. Plans and conduct analysis of specimens using advanced molecular techniques such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing for detection of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and/or genetic characteristics in clinical samples, foods and food products, and environmental samples by processing specimens in accordance with current protocols and regulations. (30%)

EJF 3. Investigates quality assurance/quality control problems, recommends and implements approved corrective actions. Initiates troubleshooting of diagnostic tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments as directed by Team Lead/Branch Manager. Proposes solutions to problems, implements approved changes according to direction from Team Lead/Branch Manager. Evaluates daily quality control records, performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensures all records are updated daily. Prepares solutions, reagents, gels, and other components as needed/assigned. Ensures an accurate and updated inventory of the 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/Branch Manager and orders re-test as directed. Assists Team Lead/Branch Manager with the determination of circumstances surrounding an incorrect report and with the initiation of a corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported to customers. (10%)

EJF 5. Assists with antimicrobial susceptibility test and bacterial culture and identification procedures. (5%)

EJF 6. Research current scientific literature, selects, interprets, and shares information for adaptation in the lab. Performs evaluation/validation studies and presents data to Team Lead/Branch Manager. Assists in providing consultation and services to internal and external customers regarding specimen requirements, test results, and interpretation. Answers questions regarding laboratory testing. Serves as one of the primary liaisons between the State Public Health Laboratory and the partnering network laboratories. Assists Team Lead/Branch 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 an instructor by teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques to other laboratory personnel, volunteers or students and documenting training for staff. (5%)

EJF7. Performs other duties as assigned by the Team Leader/Branch 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; quality assurance and quality control functions and CLIA/CAP regulations; validation process 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 follow procedures; conduct advanced molecular analyses and tests, interpret molecular biology test results, and 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:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

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

Comprehensive knowledge and working experience of molecular biology and microbiology principles and techniques, is preferred but not required.

Knowledge of quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory, is preferred but not required.

Ability to use various items of laboratory equipment, including use of a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting, is preferred but not required.

Additional Information:

Work hours and laboratory assignments may vary. Must be able to work on weekends and holidays when needed.

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