Public Health Scientists Associate

Arizona Department of Administration • Phoenix, AZ

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Public Health Scientist Associate conducts laboratory analyses of dried blood spots collected from newborns to identify metabolic disorders. The position performs chemical, hematological, and molecular testing of clinical laboratory specimens; conducts quality control; maintains laboratory records; provides consultation to clients and other laboratorians; and performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment. The role also maintains reagent and material stocks for section testing and supports the laboratory in the event of a public emergency.

The position is based at the Office of Newborn Screening, 250 N 17th Ave, Phoenix, Arizona. The candidate must meet CLIA minimum requirements for high-complexity testing under CLIA §493.1489 and hold a bachelor's degree in biological or clinical laboratory science. A driver's license is required. Newly hired State employees must successfully complete E-Verify.

Requirements

• Meet the CLIA minimum requirements for performing high-complexity testing as defined in CLIA §493.1489.
• Hold a bachelor's degree in biological or clinical laboratory science.
• Possess knowledge of molecular biology and/or biochemical terminology, general biological sciences, chemistry, and biology.
• Possess knowledge of molecular biology and/or chemistry principles and practices, including related laboratory methods, procedures, equipment, and technology.
• Possess knowledge of quality-control procedures and techniques.
• Possess knowledge of federal and state standards applicable to clinical test procedures and the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA).
• Possess knowledge of Performance Management (PM), Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI), and lean methodologies.
• Have skills in molecular and/or chemical laboratory testing and interpretation.
• Have skills in preventive maintenance of standard laboratory equipment and application of safety precautions and procedures.
• Be able to establish and maintain effective work relationships; communicate verbally and in writing; maintain accurate laboratory notes; and write technical reports.
• Be able to support a diverse, multicultural workforce and contribute to an inclusive work environment free from discrimination.
• Have a driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Perform specialized hematological, molecular biological, and biochemical testing on dried blood spots submitted for laboratory analysis.
• Work with potentially infectious and/or other hazardous materials.
• Perform quality-control testing as required by regulations and maintain appropriate records.
• Record laboratory analysis results, including procedures followed, specific results, final identification, and reporting date.
• Perform preventive maintenance on laboratory instruments.
• Order and reorder supplies for the work unit as needed.
• Maintain laboratory reagent and material stocks for testing conducted by the sections.
• Provide consultation to clients and other laboratorians.
• Support the laboratory in the event of a public emergency.
• Perform other duties related to the position as assigned.

Benefits

• Affordable medical and dental insurance plans
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid parental leave of up to 12 weeks per year for a newborn or newly placed foster or adopted child (pilot program)
• 10 paid holidays per year
• Wellness program and plans
• Life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Defined retirement plan with State contributions matching employee contributions
• Award-winning Infant at Work program
• Credit union membership
• Transit subsidy
• ADHS Student Assistance Pilot Program, including student loan assistance of up to $300 per month for eligible employees

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time