Microbiologist (DOH/SLD #10951)

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

Job summary

New Mexico Department of Health in Albuquerque seeks a skilled microbiology technician to support the NARMS RMS study, collecting samples and performing testing while maintaining thorough records.

The role involves culturing samples, following SOPs, and ensuring data accuracy for reports to state and federal partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences with emphasis in Microbiology, Biology, or Chemistry.
• Alternatively an Associate degree with two years of laboratory experience in biology/microbiology.
• Must be able to pass DOJ/FBI security clearance and HIPAA training.

Responsibilities

• Schedule and collect RMS study samples and perform microbiological testing.
• Culture raw meat and seafood samples using standardized procedures.
• Maintain orderly records of demographics, testing supplies, operations and results.

Skills

Microbiology

Laboratory techniques

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences

Associate degree in biological sciences

Tools

Selective broth enrichment

Isolation plating

Job description

Posting Details

Department Name: New Mexico Scientific Laboratories/ Biological Sciences Bureau

Salary

$22.62 - $33.93 Hourly

$47,050 - $70,575 Annually

This position is a Pay Band C5

Posting Details

Department Name: New Mexico Scientific Laboratories/ Biological Sciences Bureau

Section Name: Environmental Microbiology

The section is seeking a highly talented individual to assist with the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) Retail Meat Surveillance (RMS) study.

Why does the job exist?

This position is for the collection and testing of samples that are associated with the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) Retail Meat Surveillance (RMS) study. This position is critical and will ensure that all of the RMS study work gets completed in a timely fashion. In addition this position will also support microbiological testing of food, water and dairy samples.

How does it get done?

Key responsibilities include: Scheduling and collecting of RMS study samples according to the parameters of the grant study. Conducting the microbiological testing of the RMS study samples. Testing duties include culturing raw meat and seafood samples for selected bacterial pathogens using selective broth enrichment and isolation plate streaking according to standardized operating procedures. Maintaining orderly hard copy and electronic records of sample demographics, purchasing documents of testing supplies, testing operations, and testing results. In addition, this position will also support microbiological testing of food, water and dairy samples.

Who are the customers?

For the citizens of New Mexico, the New Mexico Department of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, the United States Department of Agriculture, the Epidemiology and Response Division, and the Centers for Disease Control.

Ideal Candidate

Bachelor's Degree in biological sciences with an emphasis in Microbiology, Biology, or Chemistry. In addition, we would prefer two years of laboratory experience in conducting regulatory testing.

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

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.

Supplemental Information

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.