0000009143.Lead Microbiologist.Health-V D Epidemiology

Dallas County • Dallas, TX

1d

About The Position

Leads and trains Microbiologists and Medical Lab Techs in complex microbiological work related to controlling communicable diseases and other community health hazards. The role leads staff in processing clinical specimens and testing for bacterial and viral agents, while supporting laboratory quality control, safety, equipment maintenance, training, and reporting. The position may act as supervisor in the supervisor’s absence.

For positions in the Bioterrorism/Preparedness Unit, the work also involves handling hazardous and dangerous microorganisms, applying Molecular Microbiology protocols, and following procedures for decontamination and notifying proper authorities in the event of spills or leaks of transported material. The position shares 24-hour on-call time with the laboratory director.

Requirements

• Education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Biological Science, preferably Microbiology, or a related field of study.
• One year of work-related experience.
• Knowledge of standard software applications.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments, and the public.
• Skill in operating microbiological laboratory equipment.
• For positions in the Bioterrorism/Preparedness Unit: skill in handling hazardous and dangerous microorganisms.
• For positions in the Bioterrorism/Preparedness Unit: knowledge of Molecular Microbiology protocols.
• For positions in the Bioterrorism/Preparedness Unit: skill in proper handling and decontamination, and in notifying proper authorities when spills or leaks of transported material occur.
• Share 24-hour on-call time with the laboratory director.
• Possess a valid Texas driver’s license and a good driving record; provide a copy of a 10-year driving history.
• Maintain a good driving record and remain in compliance with Article II, Subdivision II of Chapter 90 of the Dallas County Code.
• Ability to lift, carry, and push up to 40 pounds unassisted.
• Ability to wear required laboratory safety equipment, including masks, safety coveralls, boots, and a respirator, and perform required activities.
• Ability to travel to various work site locations.

Responsibilities

• Lead microbiologists and Medical Lab Techs in cultivating, isolating, identifying, detecting, and reporting bacterial and viral agents found in clinical specimens.
• Conduct serological testing to detect bacterial and viral agents and report results.
• Lead quality control procedures for analytical tests, equipment, reagents, media, and applicable environmental conditions.
• Monitor accountability for safety procedures, proficiency testing, and laboratory equipment maintenance.
• Assist the manager in training and coaching staff.
• Prepare monthly reports for management as necessary.
• Act as a supervisor in the supervisor’s absence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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