Microbiologist II (81018)

Centurion Health•Exton, PA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

MHM Solutions, a Centurion Health company, is seeking a full-time Microbiologist II to join the Department of Laboratories in Exton, Pennsylvania. This role supports the Advance Molecular Detection (AMD) Coordinator in implementing new molecular technologies, performing whole genome sequencing (WGS), nucleic acid extraction, and analyzing results. The position involves using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), participating in proficiency testing, performing quality control, and providing technical consultation and training. The Microbiologist II will also prepare and ship outsource tests, provide customer service, and engage in educational activities to enhance technical knowledge. This is advanced professional work in microbiology, involving the development and implementation of new methods and advanced analysis using sophisticated equipment. Work is performed independently but is subject to periodic review.

Requirements

One year of professional laboratory work experience in microbiology.
A bachelor's degree that includes 20 credits in microbiology, cellular biology, molecular biology or bacteriology and 12 credits in chemistry or biochemistry.
Experience with sequencing is a must.
Advance Molecular Detection is required.

Nice To Haves

Possession of a valid Pennsylvania driver's license (for certain positions).
Successful completion of a background risk assessment check (for certain positions).

Responsibilities

Support the AMD Coordinator in the implementation of new/advanced molecular technologies, such as high throughput liquid handlers, sequencers or PCR platforms.
Provide technical assistance regarding new sequencing platform search, review, optimization, and validation.
Perform whole genome sequencing (WGS) on pathogenic bacteria, virus and fungal organisms, including wet lab genomic library preparation, sequencing and QC/troubleshooting, and dry lab sequence analysis, cluster detection and communication with Bioinformatician.
Perform nucleic acid extraction of clinical isolates for use in various molecular testing procedures such as real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Analyze and interpret results.
Assist with isolation and identification of clinically significant infectious bacterial species by both conventional and molecular techniques.
Use laboratory information management system (LIMS) to accession specimens, manage samples, and report laboratory testing results.
Participate in proficiency testing to ensure and maintain high quality standards of testing for molecular detection of different viruses and typing and subtyping to ensure compliance with CLIA regulations.
Perform quality control checks on equipment, reagents, controls, and procedures.
Follow Bureau Quality Control and Quality Assurance Policies.
Provide technical consultation and training on technical matters for new laboratory employees, public health agencies, students, and PA clinical microbiology laboratories.
Prepare, package and ship outsource tests.
Provide customer service via telephone to submitting agencies by providing timely laboratory results and laboratory status updates.
Provide technical support to submitting agencies about specimen collections and Laboratory testing procedures.
Engage in educational activities aimed to increase technical knowledge and skills through literature searches and attendance at conferences.
Share information gained from external training opportunities with colleagues.
Adhere to safety policies as described in the Bureau of Laboratories Policy Manual, Chemical Hygiene Plan, and Bloodborne Pathogens Plan.