Public Hlth Microbiologist (#333100)
$38.73-$47.07 Hourly / $6,712.35-$8,158.91 Monthly / $80,548.24-$97,906.88 Yearly
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Performs a variety of virology, serology, bacteriology, mycology, mycobacteriology, water testing and parasitology laboratory examinations to detect and identify disease and other agents.

This class is the full journey level of the Public Health Microbiologist series, characterized by the responsibility to work independently in the diagnostic/reference laboratory of the Public Health Department as well as outpatient laboratory or clinics.  This class is distinguished from the Senior Public Health Microbiologist in that the latter performs more complex laboratory testing and analysis and has responsibility for the development and/or revision of laboratory procedures and methods.

Receives direction from the Supervising Public Health Microbiologist and guidance and leadership from the Senior Public Health Microbiologist.

 

May provide technical oversight to lower level or newly hired laboratory employees.

Performs moderately difficult and routine microbiological and related biological, serological, and biochemical examinations for the detection and identification of microbial, fungal, parasitic and viral agents of disease using defined procedures.

Prepares specimens for examination by using various stains, reagents, and equipment; operates and maintain surgical and laboratory equipment.

Performs quality control measures to insure accuracy of results by using standardized tests on known pathogens kept in stock; analyzes and interprets laboratory data; maintains records and prepares reports.

Assists in the planning, development, review and evaluation of procedures, products, methods and techniques.

Consults with private physicians, health professionals, and agencies on matters related to laboratory methods, procedures, findings and analyses.

 

Assists in the training of less experienced microbiologists and technical assistance to support personnel working in the laboratory; conducts in-service training in laboratory procedures, techniques, and methods.

Knowledge of:

 

Bacteriological, serological, mycological, parasitological, virological and other microbiological testing procedures and methods.

 

Principles of microbiology.

 

Quality control practices used in laboratory work.

Microbial, fungal, parasitic and viral agents.

 

Testing parameters and results yielding positive or negative conclusions.

 

Terminology commonly used in a public health laboratory.

 

Causes and methods of transmissions of communicable disease.

 

Skills to:

 

Utilizes various laboratory and surgical tools and equipment.

 

Ability to:

Conduct a variety of microbiological tests.

Independently collect and analyze data to draw logical conclusions and make appropriate recommendations.

Research regulations, procedures and/or technical reference materials.

 

Consult with other health professionals on matters related to laboratory methods, procedures, findings, and analyses.

Provide technical assistance to technical level laboratory staff; provide functional assistance to support personnel. 

 

Evaluate laboratory procedures, methods, and techniques.

 

Maintain confidentiality of information.

Experience:  
Two years of public health microbiologist experience that demonstrates the possession of and competency in requisite knowledge, skills and abilities.  

Education/Training:  
Bachelor’s degree is required from an accredited college or university, preferably in biology or closely related field.

Possession of a Public Health Microbiologist certificate issued by the California State Department of Health, Laboratory Field Services.

 

Physical Ability:  Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds).  Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation.

 

Sensory Requirements:  Some tasks require visual perception and discrimination.  Some tasks require oral communications ability.

 

Environmental Factors:  Incumbents must be able to work in an environment that may include exposure to communicable disease.

 

Candidates for employment may be required to sign a statement agreeing to comply with Section 11166 of the California Penal Code relating to child abuse reporting as a condition of employment.

 

Independent travel may be required.