Laboratory Scientist II 2026-02398

State of Wyoming; Cheyenne (WY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Wyoming Public Health Laboratory Microbiology Program is seeking an AWEC Laboratory Scientist to support statewide infectious disease testing and surveillance, with emphasis on wastewater testing for public health importance, while also supporting molecular testing and surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious diseases.

The Laboratory Scientist will perform testing, analyze laboratory data, maintain quality and regulatory standards, and support efficient daily laboratory operations.

Qualifications

• Experience in molecular or microbiology testing preferred.
• Familiarity with PCR and nucleic acid extraction.
• Understanding of quality systems and documentation.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular and microbiological testing of wastewater and clinical specimens.
• Support statewide surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 and other diseases.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, PCR, sequencing, and related tests.
• Prepare and analyze specimens and wastewater samples with accurate records.
• Interpret and report results per procedures and quality standards.
• Maintain QA, biosafety, and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain equipment, supplies, and work areas for daily operations.
• Assist with method verification, validation, and implementation of new tests.
• Analyze laboratory data to support surveillance and reporting.
• Collaborate with staff and partners to support testing and surveillance.
• Participate in outbreak investigations and public health responses.
• Maintain proficiency through training and competency assessments.

Skills

Molecular testing

Wastewater testing

PCR

Data analysis

Quality assurance

Tools

PCR instruments

Nucleic acid extraction instruments

Sequencing equipment

Job description

Open Until Filled

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Wyoming Public Health Laboratory Microbiology Program is seeking an AWEC (At-Will Employee Contract) Laboratory Scientist to support statewide infectious disease testing and surveillance. This position will have a strong emphasis on wastewater testing for infectious diseases of public health importance, while also supporting molecular testing and surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious diseases. The Laboratory Scientist will perform testing, analyze laboratory data, maintain quality and regulatory standards, and support efficient daily laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in molecular and microbiological laboratory techniques, attention to detail, and an interest in applying laboratory science to public health.

Human Resource Contact: [e-mail]

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform molecular and microbiological testing of wastewater and clinical specimens for infectious diseases of public health importance.
• Support statewide surveillance activities for SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious diseases.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, PCR, sequencing, and other laboratory testing as assigned.
• Prepare, process, and analyze specimens and wastewater samples while maintaining accurate and timely records.
• Interpret and report laboratory results in accordance with established procedures and quality standards.
• Follow laboratory quality assurance, quality control, biosafety, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, reagents, and work areas to support efficient daily operations.
• Assist with method verification, validation, troubleshooting, and implementation of new laboratory procedures.
• Analyze and organize laboratory data to support public health surveillance and reporting.
• Collaborate with WPHL staff, public health partners, and other stakeholders to support testing and surveillance activities.
• Participate in outbreak investigations, emerging infectious disease response, and other public health laboratory activities as needed.
• Maintain proficiency in assigned testing methodologies through training, competency assessments, and continuing education.

PREFERENCES:

• Prior experience in a clinical, public health, or research laboratory setting
• Familiarity with molecular diagnostic methods such as PCR or nucleic acid extraction
• Experience with quality systems, documentation control, or laboratory accreditation standards
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

KNOWLEDGE:

• General laboratory quality control practices and procedures.
• Basic scientific principles, microbiology, and molecular biology.
• Routine laboratory techniques, including sterile practices and standard workflows.
• Basic molecular and microbiological testing methods.
• Laboratory safety, biosafety, and handling of infectious materials.
• Quality assurance, documentation, and laboratory recordkeeping.
• Basic public health laboratory practices and disease surveillance.
• Strong written, verbal, electronic, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Google Workspace and digital tools for documentation, communication, and data management.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new laboratory methods, equipment, and technologies.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

None - See "Preferences"

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

• The employee may sit comfortably to perform the work; however, there may be some walking, standing, bending, carrying light items, driving an automobile, etc.

NOTES:

• FLSA: Non-Exempt
• The Wyoming Department of Health is an E-Verify employer.

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.

Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.