Microbiologist Series

State of Kansas • Shawnee, KS

381d • $28 - $31

About The Position

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has a Microbiologist opening in Topeka. This position is with the Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories and is strictly in office. The incumbent in this role will serve as testing personnel (high and moderate complexity testing), as defined by CLIA, for bacteriology, mycology, and mycobacteriology areas.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or other related field.
• Must have at least 24 semester hours of science that include 6 semester hours of Biology, 6 semester hours of Chemistry, and 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical technology in any combination.
• Valid Driver's License - Incumbent is required to have and maintain a valid driver's license when operating a state vehicle, a private vehicle, or a rental vehicle for the benefit of the State.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry or biochemistry.
• PhD in microbiology, biology, chemistry or biochemistry.
• ASCP certification (MLS, M) or equivalent.
• Experience working in a public health position (office or lab).
• General experience in a clinical microbiology laboratory.
• Hands-on experience in identifying bacteria, mycobacteria, or yeast/fungi.
• Six months experience in a CLIA regulated bacteriology and/or mycobacteriology and/or mycology lab.
• Experience working in BSL-3 laboratory conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform technical duties in the identification of bacteria and report results in an accurate and timely manner.
• Bacteriology testing involves laboratory isolation of bacterial pathogens from human clinical samples and identification of isolates using biochemical analysis, microscopy, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight spectroscopy (MALDI-ToF), PCR, and/or serological tests.
• Mycology testing involves laboratory isolation of yeasts from human clinical samples and identification of isolates using MALDI-ToF.
• Mycobacteriology testing involves isolation and identification of mycobacteria using culture, fluorescent microscopy, MALDI-ToF, and nucleic acid amplification.
• Assist with the evaluation and implementation of new and alternative test methods for these areas.
• Assist with accessioning of samples and the processing of clinical specimens and culture isolates as needed.
• Help track consumables to ensure that supplies and reagents are maintained and ordered as needed.
• Ensure measures for safety and cleanliness are practiced and completed, including trash pickup, keeping lab benches clean, and restocking supplies.
• Perform quality control tests and maintain related records.
• Prepare and update written standard operating procedures and test methods as necessary to reflect current technology and methods.
• Participate in appropriate proficiency testing programs.
• Once eligible, serve as general supervisor or technical supervisor, as defined by CLIA, for applicable testing services and carry out the duties assigned to those roles.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, vision, and additional coverage
• Sick & Vacation leave
• Work-Life Balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave
• Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually)
• Fitness Centers in select locations
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree