Under the close supervision of Microbiologist 3 or other supervisory title, the microbiologist trainee scientist will participate in both outreach and laboratory work. They will perform laboratory work such as microbiologic, serologic and/or molecular tests/analysis in support of clinical diagnostic testing and public health surveillance efforts. This includes work such as identification and confirmation of arboviral diseases, hepatitis viruses, and vaccine preventable diseases, rabies virus microscopic identification, or molecular testing for influenza viruses or other respiratory or arboviral pathogens.

The microbiologist trainee will be primarily assigned to a virology unit, where they will learn to perform various testing methodologies in accordance with standard operating procedures. Testing could include but is not limited to serological assays such as MAC-ELISA for diagnostic purposes, routine microbiologic and/or molecular techniques such as RT-PCR for pathogen identification and characterization, whole genome sequencing, and culture-based methods. Microbiologist trainees may be cross-trained in other units as needed to support public health laboratory response.

Performs other duties as assigned, including but not limited to preparation of reagents/buffers, the acquisition, storage, preservation, recording, and proper use of laboratory equipment, materials, and supplies. Utilize electronic and/or manual recording and Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to track all records. Create electronic reports.

Interprets and prepares final reports for submitter. Performs quality control for the laboratory. Perform maintenance checks on all equipment and troubleshoot any problems. Perform additional testing in other units as assigned, including general microbiology, molecular diagnostic and surveillance testing, serology or other tests/analyses.

Participates in laboratory maintenance and housekeeping as needed. Laboratory procedures must be conducted in strict adherence to regulatory requirements, such as CLIA regulations. Procedures must also be performed with strict adherence to all safety and biosafety rules.

ADVANCEMENT: Appointees who successfully complete the 12-month training period will be eligible for advancement to the title Microbiologist 1 under Civil Service Commission procedures.

The inability of an employee in this title to attain level of performance warranting advancement to the title above shall be considered as cause for separation.

EDUCATION:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in a biological science including or supplemented by twelve (12) semester hour credits in specific microbiological courses in the study of microorganisms, which include bacteriology, virology, parasitology, and/or mycology.

NOTE: Appointees may be required to perform physical activities such as lifting, carrying, and standing for an extended period of time.

NOTE: Appointees may be required to get vaccinations or submit vaccination records.

NOTE: Appointees may be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment.

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