Microbiologist II

DelDOT; Smyrna (DE); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) seeks a Microbiologist II to analyze clinical and environmental samples for viral pathogens using PCR in the Molecular Virology Laboratory.

The role involves RNA and DNA extractions, PCR workflows, quality control, and generating reliable data. Staff work with infectious specimens and receive biosafety/PPE training. This is a grant-funded position.

Qualifications

• Possession of an Associates degree or higher in Life or Physical Science or related field.
• Six months experience in laboratory procedures for preparation, isolation, identification or characterization of viruses, parasites, bacteria or metabolic disorders.
• Six months experience in analyzing and evaluating scientific data.
• Six months experience in applying Universal Safety Precautions for laboratories.
• Six months experience in technical report writing.

Responsibilities

• Performs microbiological examinations on a variety of clinical specimens in order to identify and detect the presence or absence of opportunistic or pathogenic microorganisms.
• Performs quality control procedures.
• Maintains accurate records of test procedures and results of tests performed.
• Prepares reports of microbiological procedures performed.
• May participate on special response teams, involving epidemics or medical emergencies.

Skills

Laboratory procedures

Data analysis

Safety training

Technical reporting

Education

Associates degree or higher in Life or Physical Science or related field

Job description

Introduction

Make a Difference with DHSS
Our mission at the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is to improve the quality of life of Delaware citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. We prioritize personal and family independence by assisting individuals and families in a variety of life areas.
We offer numerous career opportunities and are dedicated to attracting and retaining highly talented individuals who are ready to make a difference in their community today. DHSS is a great place to kick-start your profession.
For more information, please visit https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/ today!

Summary Statement

The microbiologist analyzes clinical and environmental samples for viral pathogens in the Molecular Virology Laboratory using PCR and other molecular methods. The role may also include BT PCR and rabies testing. Duties involve sample processing, quality control, and generating quality data through RNA and DNA extractions and PCR workflows. Staff work with infectious specimens and require biosafety and PPE training. The position also supports method development and validations. This is a grant-funded position.

Essential Functions

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Performs microbiological examinations on a variety of clinical specimens in order to identify and detect the presence or absence of opportunistic or pathogenic microorganisms.
• Performs quality control procedures.
• Maintains accurate records of test procedures and results of tests performed.
• Prepares reports of microbiological procedures performed.
• May participate on special response teams, involving epidemics or medical emergencies.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Microbiologist II

Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

• Possession of an Associates degree or higher in Life or Physical Science or related field.
• Six months experience in laboratory procedures for preparation, isolation, identification or characterization of viruses, parasites, bacteria or metabolic disorders.
• Six months experience in analyzing and evaluating scientific data.
• Six months experience in applying Universal Safety Precautions for laboratories.
• Six months experience in technical report writing.

Conditions of Hire

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For more information refer to our Job Seeker Resources.
DHSS does not provide employment-based sponsorship.
All new hires are required to report to the Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) on their first day of employment. Sessions are held at designated locations in Kent or New Castle County.

Benefits

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.
Individuals who use TDD may request auxiliary aid or service by calling [phone] or by visiting delawarerelay.com.
If you need assistance with an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or general applicant support, you may call [phone] or email [e-mail].
The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.