BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST III - 42005755

State of Florida • Kissimmee, FL

2d • $58,000 - $66,000

About The Position

The Biological Scientist III serves as a laboratory professional in the Aquatic Diagnostic Section at the Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (BADDL). The position conducts molecular testing and troubleshooting on specimens submitted to the section, analyzes results before release, and works with considerable technical judgment and independence. Testing includes Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), quantitative PCR (qPCR), and other molecular procedures. Work follows stringent Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and requires close daily communication with the Aquatic Section Head. Most duties take place in a bio-safety level 2 (BSL2) containment facility and, if necessary, a bio-safety level 3 (BSL3) facility.

The role processes samples from aquatic animals, including fish, shellfish, amphibians, reptiles, and marine mammals. It collects and analyzes test data, enters information into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and discusses results with the Section Head before authorized release. The scientist also develops and revises diagnostic assays and protocols, supports assay development and validation, drafts SOPs, and handles assigned projects that may relate to Vet-LIRN, NAHLN, or USDA-APHIS.

The position supports quality assurance and laboratory readiness by completing proficiency and competency tests, validating test efficacy with controls, monitoring and replenishing supplies, maintaining quality records, and ensuring that procedures and records meet BADDL QA/QC standards. It trains Aquatic Section staff and cross-trains staff from other sections, supports laboratory procedures and projects, and helps maintain organized, clean, inspection-ready facilities and properly functioning, calibrated equipment. Other related duties may be assigned based on bureau needs.

The position requires a valid driver license, rabies vaccination with periodic titer measurement, and successful pulmonary function evaluation and respirator fit testing. The incumbent must wear a respirator when required. Occasional travel is required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in biological, physical, natural, or agricultural sciences and two years of related professional experience; or a master’s degree in one of those fields and one year of related professional experience; or a doctorate in one of those fields.
• Possession of a valid driver license.
• Pass a pulmonary function test with medical evaluation and regular respirator fit testing; wear a respirator when required.
• Rabies vaccination, including periodic titer measurement.
• Occasional travel.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Proficiency in liquid handling using micro-pipettors in low-light conditions, as reagents are light sensitive.
• Ability to perform unit-conversion and dilution calculations.
• Ability to receive and demonstrate understanding of technical instruction.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and troubleshoot molecular tests on specimens submitted to the Aquatic Diagnostic Section, including PCR, qPCR, and other molecular procedures.
• Process and test samples from fish, shellfish, amphibians, reptiles, and marine mammals.
• Collect and analyze test data, enter information in LIMS, and discuss results with the Section Head before authorized release.
• Follow applicable SOPs and maintain close daily communication with the Aquatic Section Head regarding molecular workflows.
• Develop and revise diagnostic assays and protocols; assist with assay development and validation and draft SOPs for new tests and projects.
• Handle assigned projects that may relate to Vet-LIRN, NAHLN, or USDA-APHIS.
• Complete periodic proficiency and competency tests and set up controls to validate test efficacy.
• Monitor and replenish laboratory supplies and adhere to BADDL QA/QC standards.
• Maintain quality assurance records covering sample processing, analyses, purchasing, test validation, and testing procedures.
• Train Aquatic Section staff and cross-train staff from other sections; assist colleagues with laboratory procedures and projects.
• Maintain an organized, clean, inspection-ready laboratory and keep equipment functioning, maintained, and calibrated in accordance with quality assurance guidelines.
• Assist supervisors in ensuring assigned program areas have operational procedures and processes that promote accountability and compliance with division and department policies.
• Perform other related duties as required by bureau needs.

Benefits

• Annual and sick leave
• Nine paid holidays and one personal holiday each year
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition waivers

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level