MICROBIOLOGIST I - LAB BREA - Public Health

Tarrant County, TX; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 61,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Group health plans

Retirement benefits (TCDRS)

13 paid holidays

Wellness Program

Job summary

Tarrant County in Texas seeks a Microbiologist I for a grant-funded role in the Bioterrorism Response and Emerging Agents Section. Primary testing duties include molecular and immunological methods such as real-time PCR, conventional PCR, DNA/RNA sequencing, and immunoassays, with potential CLIA/regulatory duties.

Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in science with microbiology/biology coursework, or an applied science associate’s with biology hours, plus relevant lab experience.

Job description

Salary: $60,965.84 - $67,062.32 Annually

Location: Tarrant County, TX

Job Type: Regular Full-time

Job Number: 11240

Department: Public Health

Opening Date: 10/05/2026

Closing Date: 11/5/2026 11:59 PM Central

Summary

THIS POSITION IS GRANT FUNDEDThis Microbiologist I grant-funded position has primary testing responsibilities in the Bioterrorism Response and Emerging Agents Section. Desired experience includes molecular and immunological methods, such as real-time PCR, conventional PCR, DNA/RNA sequencing, enzyme and fluorescent antibody immunoassays and fluorescent microscopy. Some experience in microbiology and serology is an advantage. The following certification is desirable: MT or MLT; ASCP-certified or equivalent. Previous CLIA regulatory experience and knowledge of good laboratory practices, quality control, and quality assurance is preferred.Note: Qualifications listed in the below regarding milk and dairy testing and analysis of water samples do not apply to this position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Performs laboratory analysis of water, food, milk and dairy products, environmental, and clinical specimens as assigned and in accordance with all internal and regulatory procedures.
• Calculates the results of tests performed.
• Conducts quality control and preventative maintenance procedures on analytical tests, equipment, reagents, media, and samples.
• Evaluates results of these procedures, implements corrective action when indicated, and maintains appropriate documentation for all regulatory requirements.
• Reviews laboratory testing results for accuracy, precision, and panic values/regulatory violations.
• Reports laboratory results to submitters and regulatory agencies electronically (i.e. computer or fax), in writing, and/or orally and maintains appropriate documentation for all regulatory requirements.
• Completes a monthly statement of individual test workload and submitter information.
• Maintains a sufficient inventory of supplies needed for test workload. Includes anticipating supply needs and ordering supplies in a timely manner.
• Provides test results and information as needed to all customers (i.e. clients, clinics, regulatory agencies) that includes direct customer contact, telephone inquiries, and fax communications.
• Participates in proficiency testing and onsite inspections mandated by all regulatory agencies.
• Participates in the evaluation and validation of new test methods.
• Prepares SOPs and forms per regulatory requirements and updates these as needed.
• Provides training as needed on new procedures or for new personnel.
• Assists other sections of the lab as needed.
• Participates in continuing education.
• Responds as needed in the event of a bioterrorism event or any public health threat.
• Performs all other related duties involved in the operation of the TCPH as assigned or required.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a field of science with a minimum of thirty (30) hours in microbiology and biology or a two (2) year associate's degree in an applied science with a minimum of twenty (20) hours of biological science.
• Three (3) years of experience in laboratory science with a bachelor's degree or five (5) years of experience in laboratory science with an associate's degree.
• Any of the following certifications are desirable: Certification by the DSHS Division of Regulatory Services for the analysis of milk and dairy products; certification by the TCEQ or NELAC for the analysis of drinking water; MT or MLT, ASCP certified or equivalent (i.e. NCA, ISCLT).
• Must provide evidence of a Class "C" driver's license with proof of liability insurance.
• Familiarity with procedures in microbiology, immunology, parasitology, molecular biology, virology, and chemistry is desirable as well as knowledge of good laboratory practices, quality control, and quality assurance.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work with peers in a team environment.

Physical Demands and Work Environment & Other Requirements

• While performing the duties of this position, the incumbent is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, and lift up to forty (40) pounds.
• The work environment will include possible exposure to bioterrorism agents, select agents, infectious agents, blood, bodily fluids, corrosive chemicals, organic solvents, needles, open flames, and steam.

Benefits

• group health plans for medical, dental, and vision coverage; an Employee Assistance Program (EAP); life and long- term disability insurance; and flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent care reimbursements.
• retirement benefits
• Full time employees participate in the Texas County & District Retirement System (TCDRS), and employees may also participate in a retirement savings program (Deferred Compensation).
• In addition to these "basic employee benefits" and retirement services, employees benefit from a variety of other programs including 13 paid holidays, a Wellness Program, and more.*Note: These benefits are for Tarrant County employees only. For benefit information regarding Community Supervision and Corrections Department (CSCD) employees, please contact Patrice Smith at .01