MICROBIOLOGIST I (Moorefield Agricultural Center, Moorefield, WV)

WV Department of Agriculture•Moorefield, WV

11d•Onsite

About The Position

Under direct supervision, the Microbiologist I performs administrative and professional work for the Microbiology Laboratory at the Moorefield Laboratory Complex to include microbiological analyses of samples, specimens, or products specific to the Regulatory and Environmental Division and/or Water Quality and Dairy Program. The Microbiologist I will also perform related work in the maintenance of an extensive quality assurance quality control program for these programs.

Requirements

Knowledge of composition and significant properties of materials and substances used or tested by the laboratory.
Substantial knowledge of the source materials found in the field of bacteriology and chemistry.
Substantial knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures of organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, bacteriology, and related microbiology.
Working knowledge of standard office equipment.
Ability to understand and to follow oral and written instructions, formulas, and charts.
Ability to prepare analytical reports and to organize and present scientific information in a clear and concise manner.
Ability to complete training on detection technologies including complex instrumentation.
Ability to do original research and devise new methods of testing.
Ability to operate an autoclave sterilizer.
Ability to operate a computer with office and laboratory related software.
Skilled in maintaining and calibrating equipment.
Skilled in manipulative techniques and in following standard scientific laboratory methods.
Skilled in the use of laboratory instruments and equipment commonly used in analytical laboratories.
Capable of speaking before an audience.
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree. At least 24 semester hours in microbiology and physical sciences including a course in microbiology and 16 hours in chemistry.
One year of employment carrying out technical work in a microbiology laboratory including one year of supervisory experience.
Valid driver's license is required.
Satisfactory completion of pre-employment drug testing.
Satisfactory completion of pre-employment law enforcement background investigation, including DMV records.
Must maintain a positive image of the Commissioner, West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

Responsibilities

Perform methods consistent with the laboratories’ equipment for analyses of specimens and samples.
Perform standard bacteriological, chemical, and serological related tests and observations in accordance with scientific principles and techniques determined by a supervisor.
Analyze, interpret, and record test results in order to assist in the administration of laws, regulations, or specifications relating to the microbiological composition of the products analyzed.
Prepare official reports and may be called upon to testify before the court or the Commissioner.
Utilize the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for data entry and other computer operations.
Handle samples and perform analyses according to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and test methods.
Maintain quality assurance quality control measures to assure that analytical standards are being met.
Accurately maintain records of all quality activities as documented in SOPs and test methods.
Prepare laboratory equipment and/or scientific instrumentation for use in conducting diagnostic procedures.
Report questionable identifications or findings on work to a supervisor.
Write and develop SOPs and test methods.
Attend meetings including overnight travel.
Other duties as assigned.