Wastewater Surveillance Lab Specialist

nc; North Carolina; On-site; USD 62,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

The Wastewater Surveillance Lab Specialist in Wake County performs advanced molecular testing (digital PCR, sequencing) to detect viral pathogens in wastewater and supports outbreak investigations. The role involves validating assays, documenting procedures, and delivering training to staff within the Environmental Sciences Unit.

Based in the Wake County lab, the position supports weekday operations and may participate in public health emergencies with additional hours.

Qualifications

• Expert-level molecular testing proficiency demonstrated through independent characterization and quantification of viral DNA and RNA using digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, and whole-genome sequencing.
• Advanced technical skill in validating and verifying molecular test methods demonstrated through developing scientific documentation and interpreting study outcomes with accuracy.
• Strong quality assurance competency demonstrated through monitoring control procedures, implementing new molecular assays, and completing routine maintenance on laboratory instruments.
• Intermediate proficiency in drafting laboratory documents demonstrated through preparing SOPs, method validation reports, and updates that support molecular testing operations.
• Proven training skill demonstrated through delivering technical instruction to laboratory personnel and supporting implementation of new molecular testing workflows.

Responsibilities

• Perform analytical testing using digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, and whole-genome sequencing to detect and characterize viral pathogens in wastewater.
• Process wastewater samples and conduct routine surveillance testing to support outbreak investigations.
• Utilize molecular tools to identify, group, type, and subtype viral and bacterial pathogens.
• Follow established SOPs, QA policies, and safety requirements during molecular testing.
• Implement new molecular assays and monitor associated quality control and documentation.
• Carry out routine preventive maintenance on laboratory instruments to ensure reliable operation.
• Draft and update laboratory procedures, including SOPs and validation reports.
• Deliver technical training to laboratory personnel on newly implemented molecular tests.
• Compile analytical data and prepare validation/verification reports for leadership.

Skills

Molecular testing

Test method validation

Quality assurance

Documentation drafting

Training delivery

Tools

Digital PCR

Sanger sequencing

Whole-genome sequencing

Job description

Agency

Dept of Health and Human Services

Division

Public Health

Job Classification Title

Laboratory Specialist (NS)

Position Number

65036692

Grade

MH16

About Us

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is one of the largest, most complex agencies in the state, and has approximately 17,000 employees. It is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all North Carolinians, providing human service needs for special populations including individuals who are deaf, blind, developmentally disabled, and mentally ill, and helping poor North Carolinians achieve economic independence.

Description of Work

The Wastewater Surveillance Lab Specialist supports the Wastewater Surveillance/Environmental Sciences Unit by performing advanced molecular testing to detect and quantify viral agents of public health significance in wastewater. The position independently conducts digital PCR, sequencing, and whole‑genome sequencing to produce accurate analytical results that inform surveillance and outbreak investigations.

Work includes validating and verifying new molecular assays, preparing scientific documentation, and implementing newly developed testing procedures. The role also contributes to quality assurance activities and provides technical training to laboratory personnel. The position is based in Wake County and supports weekday operations within the Environmental Sciences Unit.

Key Duties Include

• Perform analytical testing using digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, and whole‑genome sequencing to detect and characterize viral pathogens in wastewater.
• Process wastewater samples and conduct routine surveillance testing to support outbreak investigations.
• Utilize molecular tools to identify, group, type, and subtype viral and bacterial pathogens.
• Follow established standard operating procedures, quality assurance policies, and safety requirements during molecular testing.
• Implement new molecular assays and monitor associated quality control and quality assurance documentation.
• Carry out routine preventative maintenance on laboratory instruments to ensure reliable operation.
• Conduct validations and verifications of molecular methods and prepare supporting scientific documentation.
• Draft and update laboratory procedures, including SOPs, validation reports, and related technical documents.
• Deliver technical training to laboratory personnel on newly implemented molecular tests.
• Compile analytical data, prepare validation and verification reports, interpret findings, and present results to laboratory leadership.
• Provide laboratory support during public health emergencies, including additional hours when required.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences

Salary Grade Range: $62,044.00 - $102,371.00

Recruitment Range: $62,044.00 - $66,000.00

Candidates now meet the minimum qualifications of a position if they meet the minimum education and experience listed on the vacancy announcement.

The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)/ Management Preferences are not required. Applicants who possess the following skills are preferred:

• Expert‑level molecular testing proficiency demonstrated through independent characterization and quantification of viral DNA and RNA using digital PCR, Sanger sequencing, and whole‑genome sequencing.
• Advanced technical skill in validating and verifying molecular test methods demonstrated through developing scientific documentation and interpreting study outcomes with accuracy.
• Strong quality assurance competency demonstrated through monitoring control procedures, implementing new molecular assays, and completing routine maintenance on laboratory instruments.
• Intermediate proficiency in drafting laboratory documents demonstrated through preparing SOPs, method validation reports, and updates that support molecular testing operations.
• Proven training skill demonstrated through delivering technical instruction to laboratory personnel and supporting implementation of new molecular testing workflows.

The Posting Will Close At 11:59 P.M. The Night Before The End Date

This Position Is 100% Federally Funded

Employees in this position must be capable of meeting the Federal CLIA '88 personnel requirements of Testing Personnel in a laboratory performing high complexity testing. Applicants must attach copies of their transcript(s) and/or certification(s) to be considered for the position

The Position Is Time‑Limited, Concluding On July 31, 2029 - Extension Subject To Funding

About the NC Division of Public Health (DPH)

The NC Division of Public Health works to promote and contribute to the highest possible level of health for the people of North Carolina. Our entire statewide system of public health has dedicated professionals who carry out our mission every day through a wide range of essential and activities touching the lives of everyone in our state.

About the Wastewater Surveillance Unit

The Wastewater Surveillance