Molecular Biologist III

Texas Department of State Health Services; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 61,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance coverage

Job summary

Texas Department of State Health Services in Austin seeks a Molecular Biologist III to perform highly complex molecular testing and NGS data analysis. This role requires adherence to quality control standards, SOP development, and collaboration with leadership to ensure accurate results.

The Senior Molecular Biologist will train team members, interpret complex data, and contribute to the development of molecular and epidemiological techniques in a regulated lab environment.

Qualifications

• Earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology; CLIA '88 substitution allowed.
• Experience with molecular biology principles such as NGS and PCR is preferred but not required.
• Experience with quality assurance/quality control and data interpretation is preferred but not required.
• Proficiency with computer software for data analysis is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Perform highly complex molecular biology work under supervision, including analysis of specimens using NGS.
• Conduct bioinformatics analysis on NGS data using pipelines.
• Investigate quality assurance problems and implement corrective actions as directed.
• Analyze data to identify patterns, prepare reports, and ensure accurate test results.
• Train staff on molecular techniques and adopt SOPs under guidance.

Skills

Molecular biology

NGS

Bioinformatics

PCR

Quality control

Education

Bachelor's degree in scientific field

Tools

NGS pipelines

Bioinformatics software

Job description

Date: Sep 15, 2026

Location: AUSTIN, TX

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.

Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.

Functional Title

Molecular Biologist III

Job Title

Molecular Biologist III

Agency

Dept of State Health Services

Department

Microbiology

Posting Number

21572

Closing Date

09/29/2026

Posting Audience

Internal and External

Occupational Category

Life, Physical, and Social Science

Salary Range

$5,434.39 - $5,977.82

Pay Frequency

Monthly

Salary Group

TEXAS-B-21

Shift

Regular Weekend Day

Telework

Not Eligible for Telework

Travel

Up to 5%

Regular/Temporary

Regular

Full Time/Part Time

Full time

FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt

Nonexempt

Job Location City

AUSTIN

Job Location Address

1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL)

Other Locations

Austin

MOS Codes

230X,43BX,43TX,71A,SEI12

Brief Job Description

Under limited supervision of the Genetic Sequencing Branch Group Manager, and Team Lead, follows standard or developmental protocols, performs highly complex and advanced molecular testing and typing using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). Performs Bioinformatics analysis on NGS data. Assists with the development and implementation of additional molecular and epidemiological techniques. Ensures standard protocols and proper quality controls are followed for all the tests performed in the lab. Assists in evaluating the quality of reagents and in managing material resources. Trains individuals on molecular techniques and serves as a Senior Molecular biologist within the laboratory; assumes additional duties as assigned. Duties are performed with significant latitude to interpret standard protocols, with significant use of scientific knowledge and judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

• EJF 1: Under the technical guidance of the Group Manager/Team Lead, performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work. Plans and conducts analysis of specimens using NGS by processing specimens in accordance with current protocols and regulations. (45%)
• EJF 2: Performs bioinformatics analysis on NGS data using various bioinformatics software or pipelines. (25%)
• EJF 3: Investigates quality assurance problems, recommends, and implements approved corrective actions. Initiates troubleshooting of tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments as indicated by Team Lead/Manager. Proposes solutions to problems, implements approved changes according to direction from Team Lead/Group Manager. Evaluates daily quality control records, performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensures all records are updated daily. Prepares solutions, reagents and other components as needed/assigned. Ensures an accurate and updated inventory of team's unique supplies and reagents is available. (15%)
• EJF 4: Analyzes specimen and test data to identify unusual patterns of either specimen submission or test results. Evaluates test results, reviews, and releases outgoing reports. Assesses atypical test results, consults with Team Lead/Group Manager and orders retesting as directed. Assists Team Lead/Manager with determination of circumstances surrounding an incorrect report and with the initiation of corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported to customers. (5%)
• EJF 5: Researches current scientific literature, selects, interprets, and shares information for adaptation in the lab. Performs evaluation/validation studies and presents data to Team Lead/Manager. Assists in providing consultation and services to internal and external customers regarding specimen requirements, test results, and interpretation. Answers questions regarding laboratory testing methods. Assists Team Lead/Manager in drafting and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs). Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed by Team Lead/Manager. Participates in a cross-training program as both a student and instructor by teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques to other laboratory personnel, volunteers or students and documenting training for staff. (5%)
• EJF 6: Performs other duties as assigned by the Team Leader/Manager. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/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 shift pattern assignment and/or location. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (5%)

Knowledge Of

• Molecular biology principles and techniques such as Next Generation Sequencing, bioinformatics, and PCR.
• Quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory.
• Validation processes as required by CLIA/CAP.
• Unidirectional workflow and aseptic techniques to reduce the potential for contamination.

Skill In

• The operation of molecular as well as general laboratory equipment and in the use of a computer and applicable software.

Ability To

• Interpret written protocols and to develop procedures.
• Conduct advanced molecular analyses and tests, to interpret molecular biology test results, and to prepare reports.
• Plan and Prioritize assignments.
• Detect malfunctions in test protocols and errors in transcribed results; make recommendations /implementations for corrective action.
• Teach molecular biology concepts and procedures.
• Communicate technical instructions and interact effectively with staff.
• Maintain positive customer relations.
• Work independently and make technical decisions based on professional knowledge and experience.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria

• Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution; or experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA '88) Standards.
• Experience with molecular biology and microbiology principles and techniques such as NGS and PCR, is preferred but not required.
• Experience With Bioinformatics Is Preferred But Not Required.
• Experience with quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory and experience in evaluating data, interpreting test results, and taking corrective actions if needed, is preferred but not required.
• Experience in using a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting, is preferred but not required.

Additional Information

N/A

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

Nearest Major Market

Austin