MICROBIOLOGIST I (Moorefield Agricultural Complex, Moorefield, WV)

WV Department of Agriculture•Moorefield, WV

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Under direct supervision of the Laboratory Supervisor, the full-time Microbiologist I performs administrative and professional work for the Microbiology Laboratory in an animal health laboratory environment. The Microbiologist I will perform microbiological analyses of poultry and non-poultry specimens. The Microbiologist I will also perform related work in the maintenance of a quality assurance program for the Microbiology Laboratory.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree with at least 25 semester hours in microbiology and physical sciences including a course in microbiology and 16 semester hours in chemistry.
Three years 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.

Nice To Haves

Graduate study in a related biological science may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for employment experience.

Responsibilities

Performs methods consistent with the laboratories’ equipment for analyses of poultry and non-poultry specimens.
Performs routine laboratory procedures.
Develops and maintains quality assurance measures to assure that analytical methods are under control.
Perform standard bacteriological and serological related tests and observations in accordance with scientific principles and techniques.
Analyzes, interprets, and records test results in order to assist in the administration of laws, regulations, or specifications relating to the microbiological composition of the specimens analyzed as determined by a supervisor.
Performs related work and other duties as required.
Prepares official reports and may be called upon to testify before the court or the Commissioner.
Attends meetings including overnight travel.
Utilizes a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for data entry and other computer operations.
Performs isolation techniques of microorganisms for the identification of genus and species.
Performs sensitivity techniques of microorganisms to determine the best medication(s) to be used by a veterinarian.
Prepares media and reagents.
Prepares laboratory equipment and/or scientific instrumentation for use in conducting diagnostic procedures.
Other duties as assigned.