Microbiologist I: Specimen Receiving and Pre-Analytical Processing

FALL CREEK FARM & NURSERY; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 48,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The Dept of State Health Services in Austin, TX is seeking a Microbiologist I for Specimen Receiving and Pre-Analytical Processing. You will work under the Newborn Screening Group Manager, receiving and processing specimens and ensuring SOP adherence.

Responsibilities include training staff, using LIMS for test requests, documenting QC steps, and assisting investigations of errors. You must lift up to 50 lbs and have a Texas driver’s license; weekend/holiday work is required.

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in microbiology, chemistry, biology, or medical technology from an accredited program.
• Experience in pre-analytical processing or accessioning of samples is preferred.
• Experience in customer service or training staff is desirable.
• Ability to work with SOPs and maintain accurate records.

Responsibilities

• Receives and processes specimens; assigns lab numbers and checks requisitions; ensures pre-analytical acceptability.
• Trains staff and documents training progress per SOP; collaborates with Team Lead/Group Manager.
• Uses LIMS to enter test requests, access demographics, and track samples; performs QC steps.
• Reports workload/processing issues; assists in investigations of errors and maintains equipment.
• Provides customer service; handles packages and communicates with providers as per SOPs.
• Lifts and moves up to 50 lbs; may operate state-owned or personal vehicle for work-related transport.
• Performs additional duties including COOP activation as needed.

Skills

Microbiology basics

Lab safety

Customer service

Prioritization

Communication

SOP adherence

Aseptic technique

Specimen handling

Equipment operation

Training others

Teamwork

Records management

Driving

Lifting 50 lbs

Education

Associate/Bachelor in science fields

Tools

LIMS

Class C driver’s license

Job description

Career Opportunities: Microbiologist I: Specimen Receiving and Pre-Analytical Processing (20918)

DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas . If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.

Employee Benefits:

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page .

Functional Title: Microbiologist I: Specimen Receiving and Pre-Analytical Processing
Job Title: Microbiologist I
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: Quality Assurance
Posting Number: 20918
Closing Date: 09/18/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science
Salary Range: $4,316.62 - $4,964.11
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17
Shift: Regular Weekend Day
Additional Shift: Days (First); Weekends
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL)
Other Locations: None
MOS Codes: 230X,43BX,43TX,71A,SEI12

Brief Job Description:

Works under the moderate supervision of the Newborn Screening (NBS) Specimen Receiving Group Manager, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Receives and processes specimens received by the Public Health Laboratory Division (PHLD). Reports problems and assists team leader in investigating causes for errors/discrepancies. Assists in training and mentoring other laboratory employees. Provides customer service. Performs other duties as assigned, including Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF 1.Receives and processes specimens and samples received at the laboratory, including but not limited to microbiological, clinical chemistry, and environmental specimens/samples. Sorts, determines pre-analytical acceptability, and assigns lab numbers for all specimens/samples that are suitable for DSHS laboratory testing. Ensures all requisition forms are properly completed. Checks and verifies accuracy of work performed by others. Completes specimen and form processing by deadlines set forth in Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Manuals (30%)

EJF 2. Assists with training employees, as assigned. Duties include but are not limited to ensuring trainee is properly trained according to SOP. Ensures all documentation is properly completed and forwarded to Team Lead/Group Manager when training is complete. Informs Team Lead/Group Manager of training progress and/or issues as they occur. Provides suggestions that may improve work efficiency and quality. May participate in interviewing process with Group Manager. (30%)

EJF 3.Performs assigned tasks including but not limited to processing unsatisfactory specimens, abnormal specimens, and packaging/delivery of specimens. Uses various Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to enter test requests, search for patient demographic information, and track information for cataloging and auditing purposes. Completes and documents all required quality control (QC) steps, reports, and documents, as defined in SOP for assigned check-in procedures. (10%)

EJF 4.Reports workload problems, processing problems, and incorrect reports to the Team Lead or Group Manager as they occur. Assists Team Lead in investigating causes for errors, discrepancies, and computer system issues. Helps in maintenance of equipment and instruments in the laboratory. (10%)

EJF 5.Provides customer service. Ensures that customer needs are met regarding the handling of specimens. Greets customers and records packages received by carriers, USPS, or hand deliveries. Provides information to providers and submitters according to SOPs. Assists Team Lead/Group Manager to solve logistical and technical problems. (10%)

EJF 6.Tasks require the ability to lift, push, pull, and carry packages, boxes, and/or coolers up to 50 lbs. repeatedly throughout the day. For all packages over 50 lbs., assistance is required. Deliver or pick up packages, boxes, and/or coolers via state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle. Safe operation of a state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business and an acceptable driving record must be maintained in accordance with DSHS Policy OS-3901, Fleet Operations and Management & Procedures and standards developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (5%)

EJF 7.Performs other duties as assigned, including but not limited to actively participating and/or serving a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternative shift pattern assignment, and/or location. (5%) and/or location. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

• Microbiological and chemical principles, techniques, and terminology.
• Laboratory safety including sample-handling techniques.

Skill to:

• Manipulate standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy, and safety.
• Effective customer service techniques.
• Prioritizing and/or delegating tasks.

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Follow written and verbal instructions.
• Use various items of laboratory equipment associated with work area.
• Interact effectively with staff.
• Work in harmony with other team members.
• Follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately.
• Keep accurate, detailed records.
• Use aseptic techniques when working with infectious material.
• Handle specimens and samples quickly, accurately, and safely.
• Lift, push, pull, and carry 50 lb packages/boxes/coolers repeatedly throughout the day, assistance required for packages over 50 lbs.
• Effectively train others.
• Take initiative.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Must have a valid Class C Texas driver’s license or equivalent from another state. Must be indicated on application.

Initial Screening Criteria:

All applicants are required to:

1. Work hours other than 8 am – 5 pm, weekends, and holidays, as indicated by application.
2. Transport ("travel") samples up to 5% of the time, as indicated by application.

All applicants are required to meet at least one of the following criteria:

1. Associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in microbiological, chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution OR
2. Experience in pre-analytical processing or accessioning of samples or specimens in a clinical, research, or environmental laboratory OR
3. Experience in providing customer service OR
4. Experience in training other staff or peers.

Additional Information:

Work Schedule:Must be able to work holidays and weekends; all employees must work Saturdays as assigned. Must be able to work hours other than 8am – 5pm.
Transportation:Employee must provide transportation. If an employee operates a personal or state motor vehicle in the performance of their official duties, the employee must possess a current valid Texas driver’s license for the appropriate type of vehicle. Safe operation of either a state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business, applicants will have their driving records checked through the Department of Public Safety and applicants must have a valid Class C Texas driver’s license or equivalent license from another state.

Immunizations:Compliance with DSHS Laboratory Exposure Control Plan required: vaccine requirements are consistent with current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations and other national guidelines for employee groups based upon job duties and tasks.
Risks:High Hepatitis risk.
Coursework:Include a list of all Microbiology and Chemistry semester hour courses/credit hours on application. Applicants with diplomas awarded in countries other than the U.S. must contact Laboratory Personnel Services (512-776-7318) for an approved list of credentialing agencies.

When completing your application, complete all fields. Include job titles, dates, salary, supervisor name, and supervisor contact information. Include details about your job experience as it relates to the essential functions, knowledge/skills/abilities, and screening information provided on this Position Description.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/ .

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at [e-mail] .

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility:

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form