Biological Threat Response Scientist (BSL-3, On-Call)

Department-of-General-Services; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 62,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of General Services seeks Scientists for the Biological Threat Emergency Response Group (BTER) in Richmond, VA. The roles will analyze unknown substances to identify biological threats impacting public health and safety, with on-site reporting and on-call rotations.

Responsibilities include performing routine and emergency testing using microbiology, molecular biology, and immunology techniques, maintaining QA/QC, and ensuring data accuracy in LIMS.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of microbiological, molecular biology, or medical sciences required.
• Ability to work weekends, after-hours and on-call on rotation.
• Meet CLIA requirements for high‑complexity testing as defined by 42 CFR 493.1489.
• Experience operating and troubleshooting laboratory instrumentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and emergency microbiological, molecular, and immunological testing with timely turnaround.
• Maintain chain of custody and QA/QC procedures; document maintenance and ensure data accuracy in LIMS.
• Provide responsive support to internal and external customers and collaborate with DCLS team.
• Operate in a safe environment following SOPs and safety protocols, including BSL‑3 procedures.

Skills

Microbiology

Molecular biology

Medical sciences

QA/QC procedures

Lab safety practices

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

CLIA high complexity testing compliance

Tools

LIMS

PCR

Job description

The Department of General Services seeks Scientists for the Biological Threat Emergency Response Group (BTER) in Richmond, VA. The roles will analyze unknown substances to identify biological threats impacting public health and safety, with on-site reporting and on-call rotations.

Responsibilities include performing routine and emergency testing using microbiology, molecular biology, and immunology techniques, maintaining QA/QC, and ensuring data accuracy in LIMS.