Public Health Microbiologist: PCR & On-Call

New Mexico Department of Health; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 47,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

The New Mexico Department of Health's Scientific Laboratory Division seeks an experienced laboratory professional with strong molecular biology skills, focusing on PCR and rt-PCR techniques. This on-site role supports public health testing in a Biosafety Level 2/3 setting and involves rigorous adherence to CLIA standards.

Responsibilities include 24/7 on-call readiness, on-going assay development, and collaboration with epidemiology teams to respond to public health emergencies.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science.
• Two (2) years' experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitological, and/or molecular biology in a lab.
• Any combination of education/experience totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform clinical and environmental diagnostic testing, including nucleic acid extraction and PCR.
• Maintain CLIA standards and comply with federal select agent regulations.
• Participate in 24/7 on-call rotation (~1 week per month).
• Support grant-funded projects by designing, validating, and implementing diagnostic assays.

Skills

PCR techniques

Real-time PCR

Molecular biology

Laboratory safety

Education

Associate degree in biological sciences

Job description

The New Mexico Department of Health's Scientific Laboratory Division seeks an experienced laboratory professional with strong molecular biology skills, focusing on PCR and rt-PCR techniques. This on-site role supports public health testing in a Biosafety Level 2/3 setting and involves rigorous adherence to CLIA standards.

Responsibilities include 24/7 on-call readiness, on-going assay development, and collaboration with epidemiology teams to respond to public health emergencies.