Molecular Biologist II

FALL CREEK FARM & NURSERY; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 51,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

State employee benefits

Job summary

Dept of State Health Services seeks a Molecular Biologist II in Austin, TX to perform advanced molecular genetics assays (DNA extraction, PCR, real-time PCR, sequencing) and interpret results. You will work under the Newborn Screening Molecular Branch Manager, ensuring accuracy in a high-volume lab environment.

The role requires a relevant degree and willingness to rotate Saturdays; proficiency with lab software and QA practices is essential. State employee benefits apply.

Qualifications

• Earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology.
• Ability to work on Saturdays on rotating basis.
• Experience with molecular testing procedures and data interpretation is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform highly complex molecular genetic procedures including DNA extraction, PCR, real-time PCR and sequencing.
• Evaluate data and provide preliminary interpretations for SMA, CF, and other NBS disorders.
• Maintain QC, documentation, and laboratory records in a high-volume environment.
• Perform equipment maintenance and prepare reagents and supplies.
• Adhere to SOPs, safety guidelines, and participate in COOP/disaster readiness as required.
• Collaborate with team and communicate results to supervisors and stakeholders.

Skills

Molecular testing

PCR

DNA sequencing

Laboratory skills

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's/Master's/Doctoral in clinical laboratory science or related field

Tools

Laboratory information system

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

Posting ID20552-Posted -Dept of State Health Services-NBS/Med Scrning QI/Test Supp-Life, Physical, and Social Science-b. $3000 - $4999 per month

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: Molecular Biologist II
Job Title: Molecular Biologist II
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: NBS/Med Scrning QI/Test Supp
Posting Number: 20552
Closing Date: 09/09/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Life, Physical, and Social Science
Salary Range: $4,565.12 - $5,249.89
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-19
Shift: Regular Weekend Day
Additional Shift: None
Telework:
Travel:
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:

Under the supervision of the Newborn Screening Molecular Branch Manager, uses considerable knowledge to independently perform highly complex advanced molecular genetic procedures (including DNA extraction, electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time PCR, automated DNA sequencing, and DNA sequence analysis) to identify mutations causing spinal muscular atrophy, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, galactosemia, and other NBS disorders using standardized procedures developed in the DNA Analysis Team. Responsible for making significant decisions on the accuracy of laboratory tests on human specimens. Independently determines and troubleshoots complex results based on Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).Performs the equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, specimen and reagent preparation, clean-up, and other supporting work for the laboratory. Performs quality control (QC) for DNA studies and utilizes considerable working knowledge of all procedures to participate in maintaining analytic accuracy and continuity of testing.Performs computer database searches, specimen login and record-keeping of results.Actively participates in the safety program.Duties are independently performed with considerable latitude, adherence to standard protocol, and with use of scientific knowledge and independent judgment.Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary; all staff members will be required to work on Saturday as part of a rotating schedule.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedulein accordance withagency leave policy andperformsother duties as assigned.

EJF 1.Performs highly complex advanced molecular genetic procedures including DNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR, real-time PCR, RFLP analysis, DNA sequencing, and DNA sequence analysis following laboratory protocol guidelines for the identification of mutations causing spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), cystic fibrosis, hemoglobinopathies, medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, galactosemia, and other NBS disorders.Evaluates and makes preliminary interpretations ofhighly complexdata.(50%)

EJF 2.Follows QC guidelines andmonitorsthe reagents, materials, and assays to ensure accuracy and continuity of testing.Completes all required QC documentation accurately and ina timelymanner.(10%)

EJF 3.Ensures proper specimen receipt, storage andtracking oflocation and testing status.Ensuresaccurateentry of patient demographic information and test results.Uses computer software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, laboratory information system, etc.) tomaintainlaboratory testing records for reporting and data presentations.(10%)

EJF 4.Performs and documents the preparatory and other supporting work for DNA testing.Prepares reagents, controls, reaction tubes,tipsand other material needed in the laboratory.(5%)

EJF 5.Performs equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.Cleans andmaintainsthe automated DNA sequencer replacing reagents as needed.Cleans glassware, laboratory equipment and bench surface as required.Disposesof chemical and biological waste following practices in compliance with regulations. Completes all required documentation accurately and ina timelymanner.(10%)

EJF 6.Promotes workflow through cooperative interaction, reassignment of duties, and teamwork with supervisors, co-workers, and internal and external customers. Initiates rapid communication of abnormal test results to teamleader.Conductstraining as required.Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to activelyparticipatingand/or serving in 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 alternate shiftpatternassignment and/or location.Based on your work area, consistentlycomply withDSHS Laboratory, local,stateand federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (5%)

EJF 7.Performs computer database searches to obtain information pertinent to laboratory testing.Uses computer databases for literature searches, genetic diseaseinformationand DNA sequence queries.Assistswith preparing complex technical reports and research papers.Assistsin research, evaluation, development, and implementation of new testing procedures. (5%)

EJF 8.Recognizes delays in completion of specimen testing, result reporting, and other essential functions and notifies the supervisorimmediately.Identifiesproblems with atypical testresultsrecommending solutions and consulting with upper-level personnel.(5%)

Knowledge,Skillsand Abilities (KSAs):

General knowledge of laboratory, quality control, and human molecular genetic principles, techniques, and terminology.

Knowledge of laboratory safety includingsample-handlingtechniques.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Ability to usevarious itemsof laboratory equipment associated with work area.

Ability to use a computer, includingdata basesearches.

Ability to interact effectively with staff.

Ability to work in harmony with other team members.

Ability to work as part of a team adhering to structured deadlines for completion of critical laboratory procedures.

Ability to lead co-workers by setting a positive work-ethic example.

Ability to follow standard operating procedures and protocols accurately.

Ability to keepaccurate, detailed records.

Ability to use aseptic techniques when working with infectious material.

Ability to complete tasks without close supervision and use mature judgment in test interpretation.

Ability to prioritize and organize detailed tasks tomaintainrequired sectiontimeframes.

Ability to recognize and solve work area problems.

Ability tomaintainwork area instruments and automated testing equipment.

Ability to teach work area procedures to co-workers and guests.

Ability to prepare diagnostic (analytical) reagents and/or controls accurately.

Skill to manipulate standard laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy, and safety.

Ability to visually distinguish color differences asrequiredfor testing procedures.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical,biologicalor clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution.

Ability to work on Saturdays on rotating basis required.

Minimum 2 years of molecular testing experience or 1 year of clinical molecular testing experience required.
Preferred but not required: Experience with clinical molecular laboratory testing procedures in newborn screening.
Experience in a high-volume workload laboratory setting.

Additional Information:

Hepatitis Risk High. Required Hepatitis B and Tetanus/Diphtheria immunizations are provided. Must wear provided personal protective equipment (including:face shield, gloves, laboratory coat, safety glasses) as required by testing/ safety procedures.
Interviews scheduled after screening. Must be able to pass a functional color vision assessment in order to carry out essential job functions. The functional color vision assessment will be administered at the time of the interview.
Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary, all staff members will be required to work on Saturday as part of a rotating schedule. Shift differential for Saturday rotation applies per DSHS policy.

College transcripts arerequired.

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.

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