STATE OF CONNECTICUT EXECUTIVE BRANCH JOBS

Microbiologist 1 (35 Hour)

DPH - Public Health Laboratory – Biological Sciences - TB/STD

Recruitment #171106-5670HC-001

Introduction

Within the Department of Public Health, Public Health Laboratory (located in Rocky Hill) this Microbiologist 1 will be performing microbiological and molecular testing of human clinical specimens and cultures for the detection, identification and characterization of pathogens of public health significance. Pathogens targeted for testing include Mycobacterium, yeast and Chlamydia and Gonorrhea.

Related duties include reporting and reviewing test results, quality control testing, operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment, maintaining supply inventories, assisting with the evaluation of new test methods, data analysis, preparing reports and interacting with department staff, physicians, hospitals, laboratories and other health care providers concerning test results and other laboratory issues.

PURPOSE OF JOB CLASS (NATURE OF WORK)

In the Departments of Agriculture and Public Health this class is accountable for conducting biochemical, microbiological or molecular examinations and analyses of a variety of specimens and substances.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Performs microbiological and biochemical tests on human and animal specimens to identify or detect presence or absence of bacteriological agents of communicable diseases; makes microscopic, cultural and serological examinations of a variety of human specimens; performs bacteriological and biochemical analyses of water, wastewater, sewage effluent and sludge, seawater, seafood, dairy products and other foods; performs microbiological and other biochemical assays for inborn errors of metabolism; performs DNA amplification tests to detect various viral and bacterial agents; provides testing such as pulsed-field gel electrophoresis to support investigation of food and water borne outbreaks of disease; prepares reagents; utilizes universal laboratory precautions; utilizes computers related to laboratory instrumentation, quality assurance data and test reports; maintains records and prepares reports; performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY

Knowledge of current principles and practices of biomedical sciences and microbiological disciplines including bacteriology, parasitology, virology and others as they relate to public health; knowledge of equipment and instruments used in modern public health laboratories; knowledge of applicable analytical techniques; knowledge of quality assurance and quality control policies and procedures; knowledge of universal laboratory precautions; knowledge of basic laboratory hazards and safety; oral and written communication skills; interpersonal skills; ability to perform standard biomedical science, microbiological and biochemical examinations; ability to utilize computer software.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - GENERAL EXPERIENCE

Five (5) years of experience in a public health or clinical laboratory involving scientific work in the field of microbiology,biochemistry or molecular biology.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED

1. College training in the natural sciences may be substituted for the General Experience on the basis of fifteen (15) semester hours equalling one half (1/2) year of experience to a maximum of four (4) years for a Bachelor's degree.
2. A Master's degree in the natural sciences may be substituted for the General Experience.
3. Successful completion of the Connecticut Careers Trainee program in microbiology may be substituted for the General Experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience with microbiological and molecular testing methods and techniques for the detection, identification and characterization of infectious agents, such as mycobacteria, yeast, chlamydia and gonorrhea, from cultures and clinical specimens;
  • Experience writing standard operating procedures for clinical diagnostic protocols and with preparing written reports including data summaries and method validation reports;
  • Experience and knowledge utilizing and maintaining clinical laboratory testing equipment and instrumentation;
  • Experience with Quality Assurance, Quality Control and laboratory safety policies and procedures, including an understanding of standard laboratory precautions and Biosafety Level 2 and Biosafety Level 3 laboratory practices;
  • Experience with prioritization of work flow when presented with multiple demands and time critical activities.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Incumbents in this class must be willing to periodically undergo tests and immunizations for communicable diseases.
2. Incumbents in this class may be required to have specific education and/or experience to meet various certification and/or licensing requirements.
3. Incumbents in this class may be required to undergo and successfully complete security background checks.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Incumbents in this class may be exposed to communicable diseases and hazardous substances.

Conclusion

AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

The Department of Public Health aims to provide equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and advancement, fostering an environment committed to supporting individuals in all protected classes. If you require an aid/accommodation to participate fully and fairly, please contact the Human Resources Office
at (860) 509-7177.