Public Health Microbiologist — Surveillance & Lab ID

Heluna Health; Richmond (CA); Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

Heluna Health's California Emerging Infections Program (CEIP) is seeking a Microbiologist to support BD surveillance projects at the CDPH Microbial Diseases Laboratory. Under supervision, you will receive specimens, perform culture and identification of bacterial pathogens, and manage data entry and sample transport for CDC-linked analyses.

The role emphasizes quality control, sterile technique, teamwork across public health partners, and compliance with HIPAA data handling.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, microbiology, medical microbiology or molecular biology is required.
• Current Public Health Microbiologist Certificate is preferred but not required.
• Experience with PC and Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Access, email).
• Able to communicate effectively in writing and verbally.
• Ability to work independently and with a diverse team.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy.
• Capable of secure data transmission (HIPAA-compliant).

Responsibilities

• Specimen receipt and data entry for LIMS, including storage and shipment prep.
• Preparation and quality control testing of media and reagents.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and schedule repairs as needed.
• Autoclave, disinfect, and dispose of contaminated materials.
• Culture and identify bacterial pathogens using conventional and molecular methods.
• Prepare test reports, SOPs, and communicate results to internal/external partners.
• Maintain inventories and records of supplies and isolates.
• Track and order laboratory supplies and assist in purchase requests.
• Participate in seminars and scientific meetings as requested.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Microbial pathogens experience

Sterile technique

Microsoft Office (Word/Excel/Access)

Verbal and written communication

Independent work

Teamwork

Attention to detail

HIPAA data handling

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, microbiology, medical microbiology or molecular biology

Public Health Microbiologist Certificate preferred

Experience with PC and MS Office

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Access

Microsoft Excel

Email

Job description

Heluna Health's California Emerging Infections Program (CEIP) is seeking a Microbiologist to support BD surveillance projects at the CDPH Microbial Diseases Laboratory. Under supervision, you will receive specimens, perform culture and identification of bacterial pathogens, and manage data entry and sample transport for CDC-linked analyses.

The role emphasizes quality control, sterile technique, teamwork across public health partners, and compliance with HIPAA data handling.