Environmental Lab Analyst

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The State Hygienic Laboratory at the University of Iowa is hiring an Environmental Laboratory Analyst (PHB1) in Coralville, Iowa. The position is under contract with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and performs 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 and sample collection procedures. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with rotating holiday and weekend hours. This is an on-site, one-year specified-term position. The anticipated hiring range is $47,000–$49,000. Applicants must upload a cover letter and resume and mark both as a “Relevant File.” Successful candidates must self-disclose conviction history and undergo a criminal background check and credential and education verification. Up to five professional references may be requested later in the recruitment process. The position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

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, and 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 about water test results and sample collection procedures from individuals and county health department personnel.