Microbiologist I

EBMUD; Oakland (CA); On-site; USD 109,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) is seeking a Microbiologist I to perform toxicological, microbiological, biochemical, and chemical analyses of water, wastewater, and environmental samples in our Biology Section laboratory in Oakland. The role emphasizes QA/QC, method development under supervision, and training staff in procedures.

The successful candidate will have knowledge of EPA methods, lab instrumentation, and data analysis, with strong problem solving and collaboration skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, biochemistry, toxicology or closely related field.
• No experience required.
• A valid California driver's license and satisfactory driving record.
• Full-time onsite presence for laboratory work.

Responsibilities

• Perform aquatic toxicity testing with fish and invertebrates following standard methods.
• Conduct microbiological tests for water quality and identify bacteria.
• Perform molecular and immunological analyses (PCR, ELISA) per procedures.
• Microscopic examination and enumeration of microorganisms.
• Perform various wet chemical and instrumental analyses; maintain QA/QC records.

Skills

EPA methods knowledge

Laboratory data analysis

Statistics knowledge

Communication skills

Teamwork and collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in microbiology or closely related field

Job description

The Position

The Microbiologist I performs toxicological, microbiological, biochemical, and chemical analyses of water, wastewater and other environmental samples. This recruitment will be used to fill one immediate opening in the Biology Section of East Bay Municipal Utility District’s (EBMUD’s) laboratory.

Typical Duties Include

• Performing aquatic toxicity testing using fish and invertebrate test species following standard methods. May also conduct investigations into the cause of observed toxicity.
• Performing microbiological tests for water quality using a variety of methods. Preparing bacterial cultures and conducting bacteriological identification tests.
• Performing molecular and immunological analyses for routine monitoring using techniques such as PCR and ELISA in accordance with established laboratory procedures.
• Conducting microscopic examination of samples and stained preparations to identify and enumerate microorganisms, including plankton, activated sludge organisms, bacteria, protozoa and nematodes.
• Performing a variety of other laboratory procedures using wet chemical and instrumental methods. Implementing QA/QC procedures and maintaining accurate QA/QC records and documentation.
• Training staff members in laboratory procedures and writing standard operating procedures to implement new methods or update existing procedures.
• Under close supervision, developing and implementing new analytical procedures based on published methods. Performing research projects on well-defined problems.

The Successful Candidate Will Clearly Demonstrate

• Knowledge of EPA promulgated and other methods used for biological analyses and federal and state water quality regulations.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and procedures used for microbiological, molecular, biochemical and other biological analyses in an environment laboratory.
• Knowledge of the principles of statistics and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize assignments, and meet client needs and the established deadlines.
• Ability to identify, troubleshoot ,and resolve analytical problems.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients, laboratory staff and outside agencies.
• Ability to work as part of a team and apply a collaborative, problem-solving approach to laboratory projects.

The salary range is $9,758 per month increasing to $10,246, $10,758, $11,296 and $11,861 after 6, 18, 30, and 42 months, respectively.

EBMUD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity (including transgender status), gender expression, marital or registered domestic partnership status, age for individuals age forty or older, national origin, ancestry, disability (mental or physical), medical condition (cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, sexual orientation, military and veterans status, family or medical leave status, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation or related medical condition), pregnancy disability leave status, domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, and other categories protected by federal, state and/or local laws.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree* with major coursework in microbiology, biology, biochemistry, toxicology or a closely related field.
• No experience required.
• A valid California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.
• Full-time onsite presence to perform laboratory analyses and other duties requiring physical presence in the laboratory.
• Additional years of experience (beyond the minimum requirement) may be substituted for the education on a year for year basis, only if the experience is at the level of the job for which the applicant is applying.

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered. To be considered under the “equivalent combination of education and experience” provision, it is your responsibility to include in your application materials written evidence of employment performed at the level of the typical duties of this position and/or coursework in subject areas directly related to this position. For more information, see our FAQ page at http://www.ebmud.com/jobs/job-resources/job-faqs-frequently-asked-questions/.

Our Excellent Benefits Package Includes

• 12 days paid vacation; 16 holidays; 13 days paid sick leave;
• Family health insurance (choice of Kaiser fully paid or Sutter Health Plus or Anthem Blue Cross 85% paid);
• Fully paid family dental and vision care plans; life insurance; long-term disability insurance;
• EBMUD Retirement Plan (reciprocal with CalPERS);
• $1,000/yr. contributed to flexible spending account or cash;
• $145/mo. public transit subsidy;
• 401(k), 401(a) and 457(b) tax-deferred retirement plans; Roth 401(k);
• $3,500/yr. tuition reimbursement;
• And opportunities for professional growth including training and career development.