MICROBIOLOGIST I - LAB BREA - Public Health

Tarrant County College; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

North Texas Regional Laboratory, part of Tarrant County Public Health in Fort Worth, TX, seeks a Microbiologist I to perform diverse testing across consumer microbiology and clinical disciplines. The role emphasizes molecular and immunological methods including real-time PCR, conventional PCR, DNA sequencing, and fluorescent assays, with emphasis on quality control and regulatory compliance.

Qualified candidates typically hold a science degree with microbiology/biology coursework, several years

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 30+ hours in microbiology/biology or an associated degree with 20+ hours biology.
• 3 years of laboratory science with BA or 5 years with AS.
• Desirable certifications: MT/MLT, ASCP or equivalent; CLIA regulatory knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Performs analysis of water, food, milk/dairy, environmental and clinical specimens per internal and regulatory procedures.
• Conducts QC and preventive maintenance on tests, equipment, reagents and samples; documents results.
• Reviews test results for accuracy, precision and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Molecular biology

Immunology

Quality control

Public health microbiology

Education

Bachelor's degree in science with 30+ hours microbiology/biology

Two-year associate's degree in applied science with 20+ hours biology

Tools

Real-time PCR

Conventional PCR

DNA sequencing

Fluorescent antibody immunoassays

Fluorescent microscopy

Job description

Summary

This 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 job description below regarding milk and dairy testing and analysis of water samples do not apply to this position.

Provide various laboratory services for all customers of the North Texas Regional Laboratory. Areas of testing include consumer microbiology and chemistry, clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, immunology, virology, and parasitology.

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.

Tarrant County offers a full range of employee benefit programs for eligible employees, retirees, and their families. These programs include 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. The County also provides 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 [phone].