Public Health Laboratory Scientist I
About The Position
Under general supervision, performs a variety of standardized laboratory tests in all areas of the FCHD laboratory. Performs routine moderate to high complexity testing in the following laboratory areas: Microbiology, Mycobacteriology, Rabies, Urinalysis, Parasitology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Clinical Chemistry, Toxicology, Environmental Chemistry and Environmental Microbiology. Assesses and ensures specimen quality for laboratory testing. Operates testing systems and methodologies to produce accurate and timely data for patients, quality control, and proficiency samples. Conducts and documents quality control testing to ensure that proper quality work has been performed and all work meets regulatory authority, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) criteria. Reports data accurately and efficiently to healthcare providers/environmental health specialists utilizing computerized laboratory information system (LIS). Demonstrates knowledge of operational and regulatory standards. May perform on-site testing at FCHD clinics in support of STI program. May participate in training and orientation of new staff on laboratory techniques and methods. Participates in professional growth opportunities to enhance personal and team development. This position requires active participation in one of the laboratory’s internal Quality Assurance or Safety committees. Participation on agency-wide or county-wide committees is highly recommended.
Requirements
- Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in medical/clinical laboratory science, microbiology, or chemistry, or a degree in a directly related field of study.
- 1 year of recent relevant experience performing CLIA non-waived or environmental testing in a clinical or public health laboratory.
- Valid driver's license.
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification (Required within 60 days).
- Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification (Required within 60 days).
- Must complete a criminal background check, Child Protective Services Registry check, driving record check, and sanction screenings.
- Knowledge of basic principles of biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry or organic chemistry methods and techniques in a clinical laboratory.
- Knowledge and application of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and its limitations for duties assigned.
- Skill in the care and use of laboratory equipment including microscopes and accessory equipment.
- Ability to perform technical laboratory procedures in a precise and accurate manner.
- Ability to pay close attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and part of a team.
- Ability to comprehend and follow written and oral instructions.
- Ability to communicate technical information to internal and external customers.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
- Ability to interpret and follow standard technical instructions.
- Knowledge of laboratory hazards and procedures.
Nice To Haves
- Self-motivated, results-oriented individual with one or more years of experience performing chemical and/or microbiological analyses in an environmental, water quality, or public health laboratory setting.
- Working knowledge of and experience in EPA-approved analytical methods for drinking water compliance, safety, and quality assurance.
- Working knowledge of and experience in any of the following: Automated Chemistry analyzers, Atomic Absorption Spectrometers, Segmented Flow analyzers, Molecular Biology procedures, and BioSafety Level 2 Protocols.
- Performed laboratory testing under laboratory regulatory authority, such as CLIA, CAP (College of American Pathologists), COLA (Commission on Laboratory Accreditation), EPA, etc.
- Two or more years of experience with a Laboratory Information System (LIS).
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Experience and ability to read, analyze, interpret and communicate complex scientific, technical, administrative and educational materials.
- Ability to respond effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints from both internal and external clients.
- Bilingual in English and another language.
Responsibilities
- Performs routine moderate to high complexity testing in Microbiology, Mycobacteriology, Rabies, Urinalysis, Parasitology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Clinical Chemistry, Toxicology, Environmental Chemistry and Environmental Microbiology.
- Assesses and ensures specimen quality for laboratory testing.
- Operates testing systems and methodologies to produce accurate and timely data for patients, quality control, and proficiency samples.
- Conducts and documents quality control testing to ensure that proper quality work has been performed and all work meets regulatory authority, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) criteria.
- Reports data accurately and efficiently to healthcare providers/environmental health specialists utilizing computerized laboratory information system (LIS).
- Demonstrates knowledge of operational and regulatory standards.
- May perform on-site testing at FCHD clinics in support of STI program.
- May participate in training and orientation of new staff on laboratory techniques and methods.
- Participates in professional growth opportunities to enhance personal and team development.
- Requires active participation in one of the laboratory’s internal Quality Assurance or Safety committees.
- Participation on agency-wide or county-wide committees is highly recommended.
Benefits
- Amazing benefits
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
