Microbiologist I (VRDL)

Heluna-Health; Richmond (CA); On-site; USD 46,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Heluna Health's Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory in Richmond, CA seeks a Microbiologist I to perform testing to detect and identify viruses, including the agent causing COVID-19. A bachelor’s degree in biological science and either a Public Health Microbiologist certificate or microbiology lab experience are required.

The position is full-time and on-site, Monday through Friday. Some overtime may be offered during public health emergencies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological science required.
• Public Health Microbiologist certification or microbiology lab experience preferred.
• Experience with cell culture and molecular (PCR; sequencing) techniques desirable.
• Ability to follow protocols accurately and work in a team.

Responsibilities

• Perform cell culture and virus isolation procedures for surveillance.
• Carry out phenotypic and molecular assays for virologic characterization.
• Process and maintain records of virus surveillance testing.
• Ship packages to CDC as part of surveillance projects.
• Maintain reagents, protocols and quality control procedures.

Skills

PCR

Cell culture

Virus handling

Safety precautions

Documentation

Verbal writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological science

Tools

PCR instruments

Lab equipment

Job description

The Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) seeks a Microbiologist I. The successful candidate will perform important laboratory testing to detect and identify the virus that causes COVID-19. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in biological science AND must either be a certified Public Health Microbiologist or have microbiological laboratory experience. The incumbent should be experienced in working with microorganisms (specifically viruses), standard precautions, and be familiar with PCR. Maintaining an organized, neat, and clean work environment, working well in a team environment, and being organized and detail-oriented are essential.

The salary range is $33.27 - $49.02 depending on experience and qualifications.

This is a full-time, on-site position in Richmond, Monday through Friday. Work on weekends, holidays, and overtime coverage may be offered during a public health emergency, but it is not required.

If hired for this position, applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 prior to the start date; or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying the applicant for an exemption (that may or may not require accommodation).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

With adequate training and demonstration of competency, perform cell culture and virus isolation procedures for influenza surveillance, perform phenotypic and molecular assays for virologic characterization of respiratory viruses for detection and surveillance.

• Process and maintain records of virus surveillance testing.
• Process and aliquot respiratory specimens for laboratory testing.
• Maintain reagents, protocols and quality control procedures.
• Follow safety and quality control procedures in the handling of hazardous biological and chemical materials, and in the maintenance of laboratory equipment and
  reagents.
• Assist in shipping packages to CDC as part of influenza and other surveillance projects.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participate in training of other technical staff, local laboratory staff, and microbiologist trainees in procedures for establishing test services locally and performance of complex and standard assays.
• Prepare technical reports and collaborate in preparation of papers.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of and demonstrated ability to perform the following:
  • Sterile technique and standard safety precautions for working with potential infectious clinical specimens
  • Micromanipulations, such as pipetting small volumes and other fine measurements using laboratory equipment
• Previous experience with cell culture and molecular (PCR; sequencing) techniques is highly desirable
• Able to follow verbal instructions and written protocols
• Demonstrated attention to detail.

Certificates/Licenses

• Possession of a Public Health Microbiologist certificate, or eligibility for the Public Health Microbiologist training program is preferred

Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings.
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals.

Possess organizational and documentation skills.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Stand Frequently

Walk Frequently

Sit Frequently

Handling / Fingering Frequently

Reach Outward Occasionally

Reach Above Shoulder Occasionally

Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend Occasional

Lift / Carry Occasionally - Up to 30 lbs

Push/Pull Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs

See Constantly

Taste/ Smell Not Applicable

KEY

Not Applicable Not required for essential functions

Occasionally (0 - 2 hrs/day)

Frequently (2 - 5 hrs/day)

Constantly (5+ hrs/day)

WORK ENVIRONMENT

General office and laboratory setting, indoors, temperature controlled.

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, without regard to age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, reproductive health decision making, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer), AIDS or HIV, genetic information or characteristics, veteran status or military service.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.