Environmental Lab Analyst

University of Iowa•Iowa City, IA

17h•$47,000 - $49,000•Onsite

About The Position

The State Hygienic Laboratory at the University of Iowa, under contract with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, is hiring an Environmental Laboratory Analyst (PHB1) in Coralville, Iowa. The primary responsibility is performing routine and non-routine environmental microbiology testing on water, sludge, food, and environmental surface samples using approved methods, quality control measures, and documentation. The analyst also answers general inquiries from individuals and county health department personnel about water test results, sample collection procedures, and related topics. The position is on-site in Coralville and is scheduled Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with rotating holiday and weekend hours. It is a one-year specified-term position. The anticipated hiring range is $47,000–$49,000, with offers based on factors including education, experience, skills, and budget. In limited circumstances, compensation outside the range may be considered for candidates with exceptional qualifications.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Medical Technology, or a related biological science field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Typically six months of experience preparing and analyzing routine bacteriology tests on water or food samples using standardized procedures, principles, concepts, and theories, including quality control, or applicable laboratory experience.
Typically six months of experience documenting, reviewing, and releasing routine data and reports after reviewing results and quality control.
Good teamwork and interpersonal skills, including relationship management within and outside the immediate work unit.
Ability to work in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Basic math, computer, and Microsoft Excel skills.
Experience pipetting in a laboratory setting.

Nice To Haves

Understanding of environmental microbiology sample testing, including coliform bacteria in water and food pathogen analysis, and interpretation involving acceptance and holding times, dilution schemes, test performance characteristics, appropriate quality control, completion, and release of results.
Experience in bacterial culture and isolation techniques.
Experience using molecular techniques such as RT-PCR and/or DNA sequencing.
Experience in microscopy.

Responsibilities

Perform routine and non-routine environmental microbiology testing on water, sludge, food, and environmental surface samples using approved methods.
Apply appropriate quality control measures and document testing.
Answer general inquiries from individuals and county health department personnel regarding water test results and sample collection procedures.