Microbiologist - 15174

Novisync Solutions Inc.; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Novisync Solutions Inc. in Indianapolis, IN, seeks a microbiologist to coordinate and perform comprehensive analyses of clinical specimens, including culture, biochemical tests, EIA, serotyping, PCR, and whole genome sequencing to identify enteric bacteria.

The role requires strict adherence to CLIA‑based quality control and documentation, proficiency in molecular diagnostics, data reporting, and potential cross‑training in related laboratory areas.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of microbiology and related sub‑specialties.
• Specialized knowledge of current scientific methods and testing procedures.
• Ability to use standard laboratory equipment and automated analysis techniques.
• Awareness of state and federal CLIA regulations.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiology and molecular biology assays and learn techniques via proficiency testing.
• Examine samples for molecular detection, isolation, and identification of microorganisms, toxins, antigens, or nucleic acids.
• Follow procedures for specimen handling, testing, reporting, and maintaining patient results.
• Extract nucleic acids from specimens via manual and automated methods.
• Utilize PCR, sequencing, MALDI‑TOF, and WGS in analyses.
• Evaluate, interpret, and report laboratory results.
• Maintain laboratory records, QA checks, and inventory.
• Assist in epidemiological and statistical reports from data.
• Maintain competency in all trained areas and perform related work.
• Comply with CLIA regulations and safety practices.

Skills

Microbiology knowledge

Molecular biology

Communication

Laboratory safety

CLIA knowledge

Proficiency testing

QA documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or related field

CLIA technologist certification (preferred)

Tools

PCR

Sequencing

MALDI-TOF

WGS

Job description

Detailed Job Description

Purpose of Position / Summary

Incumbent is responsible for coordinating and performing the full range of microbiological examinations and analyses including culture, biochemical tests, EIA, serotyping, PCR, and WGS of clinical specimens for isolation and identification of enteric bacteria including but not limited to Salmonella, E.coli, Shigella, Vibrio, Listeria and Campylobacter. Incumbent will also be responsible for the documentation of all quality control and quality assurance activities according to CLIA regulations. In addition, this position may cross‑train in other areas of the lab that may include molecular, microbiological, viral, serological, and other techniques to support routine testing and provide backup capacity.

Essential Duties / Responsibilities

• Have in-depth knowledge and ability in microbiology and molecular biology; perform laboratory assays and learn techniques upon proficiency testing.
• Conduct examinations of samples and reference samples for analyses such as molecular detection or isolation and identification of microorganisms, toxins, antigens, or nucleic acids.
• Strictly follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting, and maintaining records of patient test results.
• Extract nucleic acids from specimens, isolates, and samples via manual and automated methods.
• Utilize molecular techniques such as PCR, sequencing, MALDI‑TOF, and WGS.
• Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results and report findings.
• Maintain laboratory record system of submitted samples and specimens and possible referral.
• Conduct quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, and equipment in strict adherence to the laboratory's quality control policies.
• Maintain an inventory of laboratory supplies and order as needed.
• Assist in preparations of epidemiological and/or statistical reports from data compiled on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis.
• Maintain competency in all trained areas.
• Perform all related work as required.
• Comply with state and federal regulations for specimen processing, test performance, documentation, corrective actions, and supervision.

Job Requirements

• Extensive knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of microbiology and related sub‑specialties.
• Specialized knowledge of current scientific methods and testing procedures and ability to apply them to public health laboratory problems.
• Specialized knowledge and ability to use a full range of standard technical equipment, complex scientific apparatus, and automated techniques of analysis.
• Extensive knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles.
• Aware of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area (i.e., CLIA).
• Ability to meet requirements for personnel certification as a technologist under CLIA.
• Ability to communicate technical information both verbally and in writing and maintain productive relationships.
• Participate in proficiency testing programs and recognize QA problems.
• Compile, analyze, evaluate, and prepare laboratory reports.

Difficulty of Work

Incumbent is engaged in scientific analyses that demand accuracy and demonstrated proficiency in applying laboratory analytical skills to select pertinent guidelines and formulate plans for problem solving. Projects involve many complex variables. The microbiologist is often called upon to analyze and identify unusual specimens or samples. Work requires analytical judgment and technical knowledge to draw accurate, logical conclusions. Incumbent will also be required to develop and research new testing procedures.

Responsibility

Incumbent works independently as an expert in the assigned area. Technical or detailed instruction is provided only upon request when necessitated by a procedural change or special project. Incumbent maintains established safety practices when working with materials that have a chemical hazard or biohazard potential. Reports are reviewed for general technical accuracy; however, tasks are performed independently. Errors in work could adversely affect the health, safety, and wellbeing of the incumbent or coworkers.

Personal Work Relationships

Incumbent works with supervisor and other State Department of Health staff such as Laboratory Safety Officer or external entities (e.g., local health departments) to devise and implement work procedures and information dissemination. Individual will have contact with employees and the public as a laboratory expert and in the explanation of laboratory procedures and recommendations when appropriate.

Physical Effort

The required personal protective equipment can be cumbersome and awkward. Extra effort and concentration will be necessary to perform routine laboratory manipulations under these conditions.

Working Conditions

The incumbent will be performing tests on potentially dangerous specimens. Consequently, safety standards are of primary importance. This position will require the use of all appropriate personal protective equipment in the designated laboratory area. The laboratory space and equipment can experience a dramatic increase in temperature. The incumbent will be required to work in these conditions and maintain a clear thought process during the testing.