Microbiologist (DOH/SLD #10964)

New Mexico Department of Justice; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

New Mexico Department of Health in Albuquerque seeks a laboratory professional to perform infectious disease clinical testing in the Virology/Serology section. Responsibilities include accurate interpretation and reporting of test results, SOP development, and ensuring QA standards.

The role requires an associate degree in biological sciences and 2+ years in a biology-related lab, with readiness for safety policies and rabies testing protocols.

Qualifications

• Clinical laboratory experience in a regulated setting.
• Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team.

Responsibilities

• Interpret, record, and report analytical test results per SOPs.
• Assist with the development and revision of section SOPs to ensure QA compliance.
• Monitor supplies, reagents, test kits, and disposables to ensure uninterrupted testing workflows.
• Perform rabies diagnostic testing; willing to receive rabies pre-exposure vaccination.
• Adhere to safety policies, OSHA guidelines, BMBL standards, and all applicable laws.
• Work in a lab with hazardous materials and use safety equipment properly.

Skills

Clinical laboratory experience

Detail-oriented

Quantitative analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Associate degree in biological sciences

Two years biology/microbiology/virology lab experience

Job description

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For more Job Requirements & Classification Description:

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

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 complete and maintains all necessary quality assurance, quality control and specimen reporting requirements as required by our regulatory agency.

How does it get done?

Interpret, record, and report analytical test results accurately in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Assist with the development and revision of section SOPs to ensure alignment with quality standards.

Monitor supplies, reagents, test kits, and disposables to ensure uninterrupted testing workflows.

Perform rabies diagnostic testing; requires willingness to receive rabies pre-exposure vaccination.

Adhere to departmental safety policies, OSHA guidelines, CDC Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) standards, CDC Select Agent regulations, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented professional with a strong foundation in biological or chemical sciences and quantitative analytical skills. They bring demonstrated experience in a clinical laboratory setting, paired with a collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively within an established team structure.

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

As a safety-sensitive role, this position requires successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening. A Rabies vaccination is mandatory due to potential occupational exposure risks. Additionally, candidates must possess a valid driver's license and complete state defensive driving training to operate state vehicles.

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

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For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.

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.