Microbiologist

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention • Atlanta, GA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is with the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Office of Laboratory Systems and Response, in Atlanta, Georgia. The Microbiologist provides scientific leadership and guidance in microbiology and biological select agents and toxins (BSAT), oversees complex studies and method development, and supports laboratory preparedness and safety. The role analyzes scientific data to address public health and laboratory issues, coordinates collaborations with federal, state, and external partners, and develops program strategies. The position also involves reviewing funding and grant applications, communicating scientific findings and recommendations, and supporting containment laboratory procedures and response documentation.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship or national status.
• Meet the microbiology-related basic education requirement: a degree in microbiology, or in biology, chemistry, or basic medical science with specified coursework; alternatively, equivalent coursework plus appropriate experience or additional education.
• At least one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level, performing all listed specialized experience functions.
• For current Federal employees, at least 52 weeks at the next lower grade level (time-in-grade).
• Meet all qualification requirements by the announcement closing date.
• Submit a resume limited to no more than two pages with detailed relevant experience.
• Immunization vaccinations are required.
• Applicants may be subject to a background and suitability investigation; a probationary or trial period may be required.
• Federal employees must receive salary payments by direct deposit.
• A financial disclosure statement may be required.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert scientific leadership and guidance in microbiology and biological select agents and toxins (BSAT).
• Lead and oversee complex studies, method development, and laboratory preparedness activities.
• Analyze scientific data to resolve complex public health and laboratory issues.
• Coordinate scientific collaborations and represent the agency with federal, state, and external partners.
• Develop strategies to meet short- and long-range program goals, reflecting promising research, preventive, and clinical approaches, including research with Select Agents.
• Support containment laboratory safety, procedures, and response documentation.
• Prepare and communicate scientific findings, reports, and recommendations.
• Administer or oversee quality assurance and quality management programs for diagnostic testing, including proficiency testing, corrective actions, and documentation.
• Represent laboratory programs on external committees and working groups, coordinate stakeholders, and contribute to policy or operational guidance.
• Serve as a laboratory subject matter expert in reviewing funding and grant applications, assessing methods, validation approaches, and resource needs.
• Write and explain detailed study plans, validation data, and complex technical laboratory procedures to diverse audiences.

Benefits

• Federal employees and their families have access to a comprehensive benefits package.
• Potential incentives, if authorized, may include moving expenses, recruitment or relocation incentives, student loan repayment, superior qualifications appointment, and creditable service for annual leave.

What This Job Offers

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