Microbiologist

New Mexico Department of Health; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

New Mexico Department of Health's Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD) seeks a qualified analyst to support infectious disease testing, outbreak surveillance, and regulatory testing. Work spans data analysis, SOP development, and hands-on laboratory procedures in BSL-2/BSL-3 settings.

The role involves molecular methods including real-time PCR and sequencing, with responsibilities in public health emergency preparedness and regulatory compliance. Join a mission-driven team serving New Mexicans.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science.
• Two years experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitological, and/or molecular biology specialization in a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• Analyze data, perform data entry, write and review SOPs and reports.
• Work in BSL2/BSL3 laboratory settings using biosafety cabinets and at bench.
• Utilize Next Generation Sequencing for outbreak surveillance and antimicrobial resistance determination.
• Prepare and respond to public health emergencies.

Job description

• The Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD) is the sole public health, environmental, and drug laboratory for New Mexico. \\


• It conducts tests for infectious diseases threatening people, livestock and wildlife, as well as for hazardous materials and pollutants in us water, air and milk. It also tests for alcohol and drugs in DWI (Driving while intoxicated) criminal cases and for autopsy cases.


• The Biological Sciences Bureau tests for indigenous and exotic infectious disease pathogens of public health significance.


• Towards this end, and in keeping with the mission of the laboratory, we test human clinical and animal specimens, autopsy and necropsy material, along with food, water, and dairy. Besides routine testing, we conduct regulatory and reference testing, as well as testing for outbreak investigation and surveillance.


• This posting will be used for ongoing recruitment and may close at any time. Applicant lists may be screened more than once.

Why does the job exist?

The Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention and the New Mexico Department of Health Epidemiology and Response Division need to track outbreaks. This position serves to assist in this endeavor.

How does it get done?

Work is performed both at a) computers to analyze data, perform data entry, write and review SOPs and reports and b) in the laboratory (BSL2 and BSL3) for extensive work in Biosafety Cabinets and at the bench, both standing and sitting; c) participate in meetings with supervisors and other sections. Analyst utilizes Next Generation Sequencing for outbreak surveillance and pathogen identification; antimicrobial resistance determination by amplification and sequencing methods; works directly with section supervisors to assist workload. Tests, troubleshoots and eventually validates new methods for implementation in the appropriate sections. Learns and performs clinical diagnostic testing using Molecular methods and complies with CLIA/CAP requirements as well as federal regulations for select agents and toxins. Prepares and responds to public health emergencies.

Who are the customers?

This job is done for Scientific Laboratories Division of the Department of Health and the State of New Mexico as well as for the Federal grants and entities that fund this position. The mission of the New Mexico Department of Healthy is to promote sound health policy, prevent disease and disability, improve health services systems, and assure that essential public health functions and safety net services are available to all New Mexicans. The job is also done for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the position is funded by the CDC for epidemiological surveillance and antimicrobial resistance determination.

Ideal Candidate

Ideal candidate should have competency in laboratory work, quality assurance for clinical diagnostics, and molecular methods including real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (real-time preferred) competency. Next Generation Sequencing experience is preferred. Ideally, a candidate with experience working in a regulated laboratory and who works well within a team and independently.

Associate Degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science and two (2) years experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitological, and/or molecular biology specialization in a laboratory setting. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education and experience.

Employment Requirements

Capable of passing Department of Justice/Federal Bureau of Investigation (DOJ/FBI) security clearance for access to laboratories holding Select Agents, as defined by 42CFR73, \"Possession, Use, and Transfer of Select Agents and Toxins\". Must obtain Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccination, able to differentiate colors, use of sterile techniques, and good manual dexterity. Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License. Must possess and maintain a current Defensive Driving Course certificate from the State of New Mexico or must pass and receive a Defensive Driving Course certificate. In state and out of state travel may be required. Successful completion of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is required.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a fully functional laboratory containing biological, chemical, physical, and radiological hazards. Incumbent will be required to use all applicable safety equipment provided by the employer and follow all safety precautions specified by the employer. There will be extended standing, repetitive trunk/arm/hand/neck movements with computer usage or assay/methodologies utilized. Work involves using high voltage electronic instrumentation, and high-pressure gas cylinders. Ability to lift/push up to 50 lbs.

Bargaining Unit Position

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.