Microbiologist (DOH/SLD #10946)

New Mexico Department of Justice; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The New Mexico Department of Health's Scientific Laboratory Division seeks a qualified analyst to support public health testing in a biosafety-informed environment. You will work in both computer-based data analysis and in a BSL2/BSL3 laboratory, handling SOPs, data review and outbreak surveillance using sequencing technologies.

The ideal candidate has an associate degree in biological sciences with chemistry/maths/computer science emphasis and at least two years in biology-related lab work,

Qualifications

• Associate degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics and/or computer science.
• Two years of experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitology and/or molecular biology in a laboratory.
• Experience in a regulated laboratory and in clinical diagnostic testing is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform data analysis, data entry, SOPs and report writing in a laboratory setting and on computers.
• Test, troubleshoot and validate new methods for implementation in appropriate sections.
• Prepare and respond to public health emergencies and collaborate with supervisors on workload.

Skills

Laboratory experience

PCR

Next Generation Sequencing

Molecular biology

Education

Associate Degree in Biological Sciences

Job description

For more Job Requirements & Classification 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 our 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
Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.

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 endeavour.

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; 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.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate would have:

• Experience in a laboratory setting;
• Experience in Polymerase Chain Reaction;
• Experience in Next Generation Sequencing;
• Experience working in a regulated laboratory;
• Experience with research in a molecular laboratory.

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

This position is designated a safety sensitive. Employment is subject to pre-employment and random testing, in accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state law, rules and regulations in relation to alcohol and/or drug testing.; Must obtain Hepatitis B and possibly Rabies vaccination; Must demonstrate sterile techniques, and good manual dexterity. Successful completion of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) certification.

Working Conditions

Office and Laboratory setting. 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.

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.