Microbiologist (DOH/SLD#00010979)

New Mexico Department of Health; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 47,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

New Mexico Department of Health is seeking a qualified professional to join the Virology/Serology section of the New Mexico Scientific Laboratory. The role involves performing moderate to high-complexity infectious disease testing on human and animal samples, adhering to QA/QC and reporting requirements.

The candidate will perform ELISA, real-time PCR for Rabies, and assist with SOP revisions while maintaining biosafety standards and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Background in biology, chemistry, and/or mathematics.
• Documented clinical laboratory experience.
• Ability to work effectively within a team matrix.

Responsibilities

• Perform ELISA, viral isolation assays, and use automated systems for antibody/virus detection.
• Perform real-time PCR for Rabies virus.
• Interpret, record and report results per SOPs.
• Monitor inventory of reagents and disposables to prevent testing interruptions.
• Willing to be vaccinated for Rabies and perform Rabies testing.
• Assist with revision of SOPs for the section.
• Comply with safety regulations and HIPAA requirements.

Skills

Biology background

Chemistry background

Mathematics background

Education

Associate Degree in Biological Sciences

Job description

Posting Details

Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.

Salary

$22.62 - $33.93 Hourly

$47,050 - $70,575 Annually

This position is a Pay Band C5

The New Mexico Scientific Laboratory operates within the Public Health Division of the New Mexico Department of Health. The Virology/Serology section is one of four sections within the Biological Sciences Bureau of the laboratory that supports various public health testing for the state of New Mexico.

Why does the job exist?

This position operates within the Virology/Section performing moderate to high-complexity infectious disease clinical laboratory testing on animal and human biological specimens received at the New Mexico Scientific Laboratory. In addition, the laboratory personnel completes and maintains all necessary quality assurance, quality control and specimen reporting requirements as required by our regulatory agency.

How does it get done?

• Perform routine enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), viral isolation assays, and use automated clinical medical diagnostic systems for the detection of antibodies and viruses.
• Performing real-time PCR for Rabies virus.
• Interpret, record, and report analytical test results accurately following the established Standard Operating Procedure(s).
• Monitor inventory of reagents, kits, and disposables so that no interruptions in testing occur.
• Must be willing to be vaccinated for Rabies and perform Rabies testing.
• Assist with revision of Standard Operating Procedures for the section.
• Comply with various departmental safety rules and regulations. Comply with Occupational Health and Safety Administration guidelines, the current edition of the Centers for Disease and Prevention Control Bio-safety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Select Agents and all other applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.

Who are the customers?

The job is done for New Mexico citizens, the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention, New Mexico Department of Health Epidemiology and Response Division and clinicians in New Mexico.

Ideal Candidate

• Background in biology, chemistry, and/or mathematics.
• Documented clinical laboratory experience.
• The ability to integrate and effectively work within an established team matrix.

Minimum Qualification

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

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.